United Way of the Plains Announces $5.4 Million Investment in Area Programs

United Way of the Plains has announced funding for 73 human service programs to help individuals and families throughout south central Kansas achieve their human potential. The $5.4 million investment is part of the annual Opportunity on the Plains funding cycle and includes $656,889 in donor-designated funds. It is the largest annual investment program of United Way of the Plains. The funding cycle covers twelve months, beginning in July 2023.

More than 100 applications for the annual funding opportunity were reviewed and evaluated by panels made up of a diverse group of 129 community volunteers during the first quarter of the year. Thirteen panels recommended funding for programs to the board of United Way of the Plains that addressed the community’s greatest needs in health, education, financial stability and basic needs.

United Way of the Plains President and CEO Pete Najera commended the volunteer panels for the time and consideration they devoted to the application review process. “The needs in our community continue to grow as evidenced by the record number of program applications we received this year from area nonprofits. The panelists were diligent in their stewardship of donor dollars and our board of directors highly valued their critical input towards making important funding decisions. Funding for 20 new programs was recommended and approved by the board.”

Funding for Opportunity on the Plains is generated through annual workplace campaigns, special events, cause-related fundraisers, planned gifts and corporate contributions. The online application process begins in the fourth quarter of every year. All human services nonprofits (501c3) operating within the regional service area and in compliance of United Way policies, eligibility criteria and shared mission may participate in the annual competitive grant process.

Those nonprofits interested in applying for program funding during the 2024 cycle should check unitedwayplains.org in September for application information and deadlines. Anyone interested in serving as a community panelist should check the same website in November to participate in this important volunteer effort.

A list of this year’s recipients can be downloaded here.