Valley of the Sun United Way today announced a strategic investment of more than $9.3 million in programs and services provided by 101 nonprofits and schools in Maricopa County. Valley of the Sun United Way also partners with First Things First and other government aids to provide families with affordable, quality childcare and to strengthen literacy. has provided nearly $80 million to and serves more than 10,000 children statewide.

Karla Vargas Jasa, president and CEO of Valley of the Sun United Way, said, “Many great nonprofits are doing amazing and impactful initiatives across their communities. We are proud to support and partner with organizations and schools.” “These partners are fundamental and critical components aligned to achieve the ambitious goals of her five-year plan for our community-driven company. Mighty Change Prioritize improved outcomes in health, housing and homelessness, education and workforce development by 2026. ”

Investing in the community includes Valley of the Sun United Way’s recent competitive grant-raising process. The process will award $5.8 million to support 90 programs and services led by 67 community organizations, as well as nonprofit grassroots fans to support nonprofits with an annual budget of less than $250,000. It also includes additional investments in trading activities. , also offers multi-year innovative grants that support long-term programs such as: Mighty Families and Road to Economic Opportunity. The minimum grant was $10,000 for him, and the maximum was $200,000 each.

“43 organizations will receive increased or new funding through our competitive grants process, and more than 95,000 people throughout Maricopa County will benefit from these funded programs and services,” said Vargas. added Jasa. “Our largest investment has been made to support key strategies to address the housing and homeless crisis, along with strategic support in the areas of health, education and workforce development efforts. ”

The organization’s competitive grants process recognizes all nonprofits and schools in Maricopa County that submit funding proposals that align with the Valley of the Sun United Way’s Impact Agenda and Strategy for Mighty Change, also known as MC2026. was published on More than 230 funding applications were then reviewed by a grant review panel made up of 36 community members, subject matter experts, Valley of the Sun United Way board members, staff and other community leaders. , ensured maximum alignment, influence and viability to achieve. Mighty change. The recommendations of the Grant Review Board were then considered and funding was approved by the Valley of the Sun United Way Board of Directors.

“We know the need in our communities is great, and we want nonprofits and schools to provide excellent programs and services across the Valley,” said John Graham, president and CEO of Sunbelt Holdings. We are fortunate to be able to offer these strategic investments so that we can provide He is also Chairman of the Valley of the Sun United Way Board of Directors. “Our journey to Mighty Change is an incredible opportunity for all of us to work together to improve the lives of children, families and individuals in our communities and the Valley of the Sun. The United Way can be a convener that brings together the right people.” Help our partners at the right time to achieve our ambitious goals. ”

Recognizing that funding is just one component of meeting community needs, Valley of the Sun United Way also maintains robust financial management. In-kind gift program Distributed over $350,000 in supplies to dozens of nonprofits throughout Maricopa County. The organization also built and convened several MC2026 coalitions and action teams focused on the five-year initiative’s key impact areas and other strategic initiatives. These coalitions work to coordinate joint public-private efforts, including businesses, nonprofits, foundations, and government agencies. For community-based organizations interested in joining the MC2026 Coalition and Action Teams, please contact Eileana Gudiño. egudino@vsuw.org.

To learn more about Valley of the Sun United Way, its impact, and our commitment to Mighty Change 2026, or to participate, please visit: www.vsuw.org.

About Valley of the Sun United Way

Valley of the Sun United Way envisions a community where every child, family and individual has a healthy, safe place to live and every opportunity to succeed in school, life and work. As we work with our community, business, and nonprofit partners to implement a five-year plan for Mighty Change by 2026, Valley of the Sun United Way is leading Maricopa County’s bold initiatives in health, housing, and homelessness. We will do our best to achieve our goals. Education and Workforce Development.please join www.vsuw.org.

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