At United Way Blackhawk Region, we love how the holiday season inspires philanthropy. In addition to volunteerism and donating tangible items, we recognize year-end giving is a meaningful way for donors to support causes and charities they’re passionate about.
As you consider the many options available for your charitable gift, United Way Blackhawk Region lends its enthusiastic endorsement to any of our funded partner programs; a complete list is available at LiveUnitedBR.org/nonprofit-partners. In the highly competitive 2023-25 grant process, we relied on the expertise of 50 volunteers and local subject matter experts who spent 760+ hours to examine each application and vet programs thoroughly.
After three tiers of review, including a scored application, in-person presentation, and financial deep dive, programs that were awarded a United Way grant demonstrated measurable outcomes and effective delivery of services for the greatest community impact. In a nutshell, programs provided evidence they’re doing the work they say they’re doing and that it’s making a difference.
Programs that could not meet United Way’s high bar of accountability in this cycle were not recommended to receive a grant award by our volunteers. No single volunteer nor United Way staff makes these investment decisions. In the spirit of partnership, United Way refrains from sharing disparaging details about specific programs that may dissuade financial support of that organization. However, an agency’s year-end fundraising appeal that cites not receiving a grant from United Way to leverage more donations, may give donors good reason to be wary.
United Way’s funded partners tout their grant award as a seal of approval or badge of honor their supporters can take great pride in. Similarly, United Way trumpets earning its eighth consecutive four out of four-star rating by Charity Navigator and Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency (both the highest ratings possible) as a testament to our stewardship.
As responsible stewards of our community’s generosity, our volunteers have done the homework for you, and never take for granted your trust in us. Thank you to all who carefully consider their charitable contributions during this season of giving.
