Each year, a portion of the Heartland United Way campaign funds are made available to non-profit organizations in Hall, Hamilton, Howard and Merrick counties through the Community Impact Grant Program.  The purpose of the grant program is to fund projects that innovatively address issues in the areas on education, income and health.  Last year, over $34,000 was awarded to eight organizations through the grant program.  About $35,000 is available this year, with the potential for additional funds to be released.

The grant program is designed to encourage entities to think creatively about ways to improve people’s lives and change community conditions.  This year, Heartland United Way is especially focused on addressing local emerging trends within the three broad areas of education, income and health.  Growing concerns include childhood obesity, youth graduation rates and the rising percent of people who do not have enough income to meet their basic needs.

Organizations should develop new or improved strategies to help people achieve a quality education, promote financial stability and independence or improve health in our four-county area.  Grant recipients will launch a year-long pilot program.  Results are measured, tracked and reported to the Heartland United Way.

For the first time this year, each applicant will give a ten minute presentation to the Community Impact Grant Committee on May 5.  Applicants will explain the request and answer questions, so the committee can make an informed decision when reviewing each application.  Funds for approved applications will be disbursed beginning on July 1.

This is the tenth year the program, formerly named the Venture Grant program, has provided funding for organizations in the community to launch new programs and services or improve existing strategies.

To apply, organizations must return a completed grant application to the Heartland United Way office by 4:30 pm on April 15.  For an application, call the Heartland United Way office at 308-382-2675 or download it below:

Download Community Impact Grant Application