A. This means we can trace a donor's contribution to a specific program with identified beneficial outcomes. It is a bit more work for the agency, but provides a clearer picture of how United Way dollars work to solve community problems. Currently, we are working with the agencies to develop ways to measure the positive outcomes of services they provide through these identified programs.

A. Every other year a group of approximately 100 community volunteers are recruited to serve as Citizens' Review Grant Committee members. These volunteers are individually assigned to review member agency programs in one of four focus areas that serve specific needs. The focus areas are Supporting Aging with Choices; Helping Children & Youth Succeed; Promoting Self-Sufficiency; and Ensuring Safety and Stability. Each focus area has a Chair, Vice Chair, Communication Liaison, and several volunteer members who develop recommendations for grants to each program.

A. An agency may appeal a decision of the Citizens' Review Grant Committee only if there is new information that was not available during the grant process. Although it is rare for the Community Impact Cabinet and Board of Directors to change an allocation, the decision will not be made without consulting the original focus area volunteers.

A. A contingency may be placed in response to a serious and significant issue that surfaces during the grant process, or if the agency has consistantly refused to address or ignored prior grant committee recommendations.

A. The agencies request different amounts based on the services provided and their ability to raise funds through other sources (fund raising, fees, grants, events, etc.) The United Way does not support any agency at 100% of their budget; and provides as little as 1% of one agency's annual operating budget.

A. Because of the thoroughness of the Citizens' Review Grant Process, this doesn't happen very often! When it does, the United Way works with the agency to determine if there are other needs that these funds could address. Or, the funds are returned to United Way for reallocation the following year.

A. Just call the United Way office at 423-378-3409 and let us know you are interested! We welcome all that have an interest in the success of our community. You must be 18 years old and be available to attend all scheduled meetings.