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 will work together to achieve the ambitious targets of our five-year, community-led Mighty Change plan by 2026, which prioritizes improved outcomes in health, housing and homelessness, education, and workforce development. is a fundamental and important element.”
Community investments include Valley of the Sun United Way’s recent competitive grant-raising process, which supports 90 programs and services led by 67 community organizations $5.8 million has been awarded to support nonprofit organizations, and includes additional investment in nonprofit grassroots funding efforts to support nonprofit organizations in the annual budget below. In addition to $250,000, multi-year innovative grants will be available to support long-term programs such as Mighty Families and Pathways to Economic Opportunity. The minimum grant was $10,000 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 to ensure maximum alignment, impact 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. United Way can be a convener to bring together the right partners.” It’s the perfect time to reach our ambitious goals. ”
Valley of the Sun United Way recognizes that funding is just one factor in meeting community needs, and has donated more than $350,000 worth of supplies to dozens of nonprofit organizations throughout Maricopa County. We also manage a strong in-kind gift program that we distribute. 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. [email protected].
To learn more about Valley of the Sun United Way, its impact and commitment to Mighty Change 2026, or to participate, please visit www.vsuw.org.
