January 25, 2008 — FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: For further information contact:
Sandra R. Rupp
734.677.7204
srupp@wuway.org
United Way Board approves new funding model
Ann Arbor, Mich., January 24, 2008 –Washtenaw United Way’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to approve a new approach for distributing United Way Community Investment Fund dollars which will be implemented in the 2008 funding cycle. The new plan opens the process for new local 501(c)3 agencies, coalitions and initiatives to apply for funding. It further ensures that 40% of the resources will be available to meet a continuum of local basic needs and 60% will be used to support agency teams working together to address five specific areas. Over the next three years United Way will increase its emphasis on strategic areas for funding. The new model aligns with the mission that was adopted in June of 2005 as part of United Way’s strategic planning process.
United Way’s Fund Distribution Redesign Team made their recommendations after 10 months of fact finding, reviewing other models as well as current practices, and talking with constituent groups. Redesign Team Chair, Frank Cambria, and Community Volunteer and former Deputy County Administrator, emphasized that, “Our approach has been very thoughtful. We have taken great care to engage community leaders, donors, and agency representatives in a dialogue around how United Way can best serve this community.”
The five focus areas to receive 60% of the funding under the new model are: Childcare; Aging in Place; Food; Shelter and Housing; and Health Care. The plan supports existing initiatives and collaborations where possible, thereby eliminating duplication of effort.
United Way will invest 40% of Community Investment Funds in a continuum of basic need services that range from: strategies that help prevent initial crises; emergency one-time support; transitional supports that build on strengths; and programs that assist families and individuals to move towards economic self sufficiency. Any agency that meets core funding eligibility criteria can apply.
The board also reviewed and approved improvements in accountability, oversight of donor funds and a stronger partnership approach with the agencies ultimately funded.
Member of the Redesign Team, Jesse Bernstein, President and CEO of the Ann Arbor Area Chamber of Commerce, commented that, “The work of the Redesign Team has provided our Board and volunteers, those who are responsible for distributing funding, with the guidelines, tools and resources to make effective decisions. Our objective is to have more clearly defined measurements of successful outcomes so that our donors can see that we have positively impacted our community”
Washtenaw United Way will host a series of informational sessions in February and March to answer questions and provide further details about the new model.
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The mission of Washtenaw United Way is to mobilize human and financial resources to help individuals and families build better lives and stronger communities by providing leadership to: identify human service needs; set priorities and action plans to meet community needs; collaborate and partner with others; and demonstrate results that matter.
