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Community Impact Process at Work (Feb 16, 2009)
Nearly 45 volunteers from throughout Delaware County comprise this year’s Community Impact Teams. These individuals will review and score agency applications, conduct site visits, and debate and discuss before making recommendations to the United Way Board for funding. There are five impact teams representing the five areas of focus for this year’s allocations:
- Core services (providing food, clothing, shelter)
- Health (promoting mental and physical)
- Housing (access to affordable housing)
- Seniors (enriching lives)
- Youth (enriching lives of children & youth)
All volunteers receive training and serve a three-year term. Teams consist of both veteran and rookie volunteers representing a diverse group of community members from numerous fields and backgrounds. Volunteers include:
- Business owners and professionals
- Social service providers
- Financial experts
- Public and private sector representatives
- Retirees
Part of the success of this community impact model is the fact that impact team volunteers are donors themselves, thus they have a vested interest.
“Volunteers have always played a key role in delivering social services throughout communities, and United Way’s impact team volunteers are no exception,” says Tracy Whited, United Way’s community impact manager. “To witness the dedication of these community volunteers as they review the funding applications is humbling. They learn about our neighbors’ greatest needs and collaborate to make critical funding recommendations – a duty no one takes lightly.”
“While it is never a simple task to review applications and determine allocations, this year will prove an even greater challenge given the current economic conditions,” explains Whited. “Unfortunately, the growth in our community’s needs will likely outpace any growth in donations. We are so blessed in Delaware County that many are able to continue to donate, however, we realize others may have to decrease their pledge amount – but giving anything, even $1 per paycheck, is better than nothing.” Agencies have proven track records of their ability to maximize every valuable dollar received.
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