An investment opportunity that creates opportunity for all.
INVESTING IN OPPORTUNITY
United Way of the Plains envisions a community where everyone can thrive. This grant-making opportunity aims to invest in the capacity of grassroots organizations geared towards impacting communities in need. Grants worth up to $10,000 will support and enhance the efforts of these organizations while also advancing the work of the United Way in the areas of health, youth opportunity, and financial security. United Way of the Plains strives to build on the annual tradition of providing grants that improve our community conditions for all.
2026 GRANT APPLICATION
Competitive Programs
- Competitive applicants will likely impact communities that are underserved. These communities are defined as geographic locations that lack resources generally due to poverty, and align with United Way of the Plains work to advance health, youth opportunity, and financial security so all of our neighbors in south central Kansas can thrive. Download this handout to learn more about our impact areas and strategies within them. NOTE: United Way does not fund grants to individuals, art/cultural organizations, animal services, capital needs or environmental concerns.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be a 501(c)3 nonprofit located within the United Way of the Plains service area: Sedgwick, Butler (all ZIP codes except 67042), Barber, Cowley, Harper, Kingman, Pratt, and Sumner Counties, and the following ZIP codes: 67025, 67035, 67068, 67108, 67135, 67147, and 67154.
- Applicants may not have received a grant from Impact on the Plains in 2025 or through the 2026-2027 Opportunity on the Plains funding cycle.
Administrative Requirements
- Grant proposals may not exceed $10,000.
- Recipients will submit a biannual success story.
Timeline of Grant
- Application opens: Monday, April 20, 2026
- Deadline for submissions: Noon on Friday, May 29, 2026
- Grant recipients will be announced the week of June 22, 2026.
Applications must be submitted online by noon on Friday, May 29, 2026.
2025 PROMISE ON THE PLAINS RECIPIENTS
United Way of the Plains announced funding for 14 local nonprofits as part of its ongoing work to help underserved communities in the Wichita metropolitan region. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 were awarded to these nonprofits.
- Common Ground Growers and Producers
Delivers fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to food deserts and communities facing high food insecurity through a mobile farmers market. - Crystal’s Closet
Provides clothing, hygiene items, baby essentials, and winter gear to families in Wichita and surrounding areas, supporting those facing economic hardship with compassion and community care.
- Equity Initiative
Works to close opportunity gaps by empowering youth through programs that build life skills, strengthen academics, and provide mentorship. - Fun, Fit, Life Foundation
Empowers young people to prioritize their physical, mental, and social well-being through education, inspiration, and support—helping them make positive choices for a healthier, brighter future. - ICT Food Rescue
Collects and redistributes surplus food to individuals and families facing food insecurity in Wichita. Through its Food Rescue and Upcycle Program, the organization works to increase access to nutritious food and reduce waste. - Kansas Birth Justice Society
Advances reproductive justice through community care, policy advocacy, and workforce development by training doulas, providing aid to families, and promoting equitable access to reproductive and maternal health. - Kansas Hispanic Education Development Foundation
Supports Hispanic students by providing resources for post-secondary education and career readiness, helping turn college dreams into college degrees. - La Familia Senior Community Center
Provides nutrition services, health screenings, and education—including blood sugar and blood pressure checks—to support members, their families, and the community. - Masters and Mentors Youth Enrichment Strategies
Uses evidence-based practices to equip Kansas youth with skills in emotional regulation, critical thinking, and decision-making—educating, empowering, and transforming their lives. - Project Laundry
Offers regular support to individuals facing financial challenges by helping with laundry, changing lives one load at a time. - Safe Streets Wichita
A grassroots organization in Wichita dedicated to prevention, harm reduction, mental health advocacy, and environmental justice, ensuring everyone has access to the support and tools needed for survival and stability. - Salud Mas Bienestar
Empowers the Hispanic community by providing Spanish speakers with accessible health information and resources to enhance their well-being and quality of life. - Shower Up Wichita
Provides the basic needs that all humans have for hygiene and cleanliness by providing mobile showers, hygiene supplies, and personal care to people experiencing homelessness in the Wichita area. - Untamed Athletes
Empowers historically underserved youth, including those involved with the justice system, through mentorship, education, and athletic training.
SPONSORS
Special thanks to these generous supporters for keeping our promise to create a community where all can thrive.
Gene and Yolanda Camarena
Susan and
Dustin DeVaughn
Cordell Wealth Management
QUESTIONS?
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4201
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4210
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4212
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4233
(316) 267-1321, ext. 4234
