From day camps and school programs to infant safety and senior nutrition, the $150,000 United Way of North Idaho has awarded through its Community Care Fund program touches a large swath of society. “I am really excited for a couple reasons, and really happy with this year,” United Way of North Idaho Community Impact Director Keri Cederquist said.
Cederquist said she was impressed with the engagement of local volunteers who served on the Community Impact Council during the grant selection process. Community Care Fund grant applications are reviewed by volunteers, who spend several weeks conducting interviews and site visits and deliberating about where funds should go before reaching a consensus and bringing recommendations to United Way’s board of directors.
“We saw so much leadership and careful consideration from these volunteers to ensure the funds are being invested wisely and with those organizations that are meeting all the greatest unmet needs, but also including programs and services that may not otherwise have opportunity for funding,” Cederquist said. “One of the things we take pride in with our grant process is our funds can be used for operations and payroll, which are often not payed for through grants.”
The Community Care Fund started in 1957, with the vision to maximize impact and achieve long-lasting results in the community. Its funds come from voluntary workplace campaigns, where employees can opt to donate a certain amount each paycheck. More than 60 local companies provide this charitable giving opportunity for their staff members.
Grants are awarded for one year and may be used for operational, administrative, staffing and supply expenses. Recipients are required to submit six-month progress reports and year-end reports on program outcomes.
Award recipients demonstrate to United Way their alignment with its emphasis on education, health and financial stability goals, focus on reaching the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population and community collaboration.