At United Way of Northern New York, we believe that meaningful change begins with community-driven solutions. Our approach to grantmaking isn’t just about distributing funds. It’s about empowering the people who know our community best to guide where support is needed most. Through our community review process, we set the gold standard in engagement and collaboration, ensuring that every dollar we invest has a lasting impact.
The core of our grantmaking model lies in the hands of local volunteers—everyday people who are passionate about making a difference. These community members bring diverse perspectives and lived experiences to the table, helping us evaluate the organizations and programs seeking funding. They ask critical questions, identify the most pressing needs, and ensure that our investments align with the priorities of the communities we serve.
This process isn’t just transparent, it’s deeply inclusive. By involving a broad range of voices, we ensure that our funding decisions reflect the unique challenges and opportunities of our region. Whether it’s addressing gaps in education, supporting families in crisis, or fostering economic mobility, our community review teams play an integral role in shaping the future of our local nonprofits and the people they serve.
Our model goes beyond traditional philanthropy by fostering partnerships between nonprofits, donors, and community members. We believe that lasting change happens when we work together toward common goals. The organizations that receive our funding are not just grantees; they’re collaborators in our shared mission to create a better tomorrow.
This approach holds each funded program accountable and maximizes the impact of every contribution made through our Community Impact Fund. By engaging the community at every step, we ensure that the resources entrusted to us by our generous donors are used efficiently and effectively.
At United Way, we’re proud to set a high standard in grantmaking—one where community engagement, accountability, and transparency come together to create real, lasting change. Together, we’re building stronger, more resilient communities.
The power of our grantmaking process is simple: we trust the wisdom of the people we serve.
If you’re interested in becoming part of this collaborative process or learning more about how we drive impact in our community, reach out and join us in making a difference.