Does United Way continue to have member agencies?
No, United Way has partner agencies. Agency partners help deliver services and develop programs within the four focus areas:
1 – Basic Needs
2 – Child/Youth Development
3 – Older Adults
4 – Strengthening Families

When did these changes take effect?
Implementation began in March of 2002.  It is important to remember that this is an ever evolving process; United Way has been phasing in the recommended changes since 1998 and will continue to assess and make revision to respond to the changing needs of the community.

Are all not-for-profits able to apply for United Way funds?
The process is open to all Genesee County Health and Human Service agencies recognized under section 501 (C) 3 of the Internal Revenue Service Code for at least three years.  The selection criteria are reviewed annually by our volunteers who monitor the process and make recommendations that will enhance and strengthen the system.

By funding a larger number of agencies, will this dilute United Way’s ability to positively impact the community?
No, the emphasis on focus areas has expanded the service network, providing creative    solutions to current and emerging community issues.  The plan has strengthened United Way’s ability to positively impact the community.  The focus on outcomes has assisted United Way in more effectively “telling our positive stories” and ensuring improved accountability for donors.

Have time tested agencies continued to benefit from United Way funds?
Yes, as mentioned above, the broad focus areas have allowed for a wide range of programs to apply.  The intent of the new community investment plan is to have an open system that:
1 – Promotes creativity
2 – Reduces unnecessary duplication
3 – Emphasizes collaboration and efficient delivery of services
Traditional member agencies have measured up very well under this new system.

Will there be multi year funding cycles?
The recommendation was to have the grant awards for multiple years.  As with the old system, the Board of Trustees make this decision on an annual basis, based on the availability of funds raised during the previous campaign. 

Does United Way continue to involve community in the funding decisions?
Yes, as we continue to further develop the plan, community involvement will remain a key component.  Community Solution Council volunteers are key players in the design of the requests for proposals and review applications for funding consideration.

What dollars are not discretionary?
Within United Way’s current system, the following funds are non-discretionary: Donor Designations, Combined Campaigns, Block Grant Communities (formerly Associated United Ways), Michigan Association of Untied Ways (State Agencies).

Will the changes place United Way in the realm of a foundation?
No, the Board will continue to allocate the discretionary funds on an annual basis, based on the availability of funds.  The intent of the community investment strategy is that the funds will continue to be balanced and flexible.  The redesign has provided a vehicle for United Way to act as a catalyst to bring diverse segments of the community together.  It is generating creative solutions for current and emerging issues relative to health and human services.  There are “Best Practices” utilized by other United Ways and funders such as foundations that will be part of our review process.  These “Best Practices” will serve to strengthen the stewardship of resources by United Way.