Column: Live United, by Ann Austin

Every year United Way agencies go through an extensive application process. The process of determining the “need” — our word for goal — for the 2011 campaign began in September of 2010, with a review of new programs. The applicant agencies were required to meet certain criterion in order to be considered for United Way funding including: operating as a 501(c)(3), providing programs within Freeborn County, having a board of directors and good financial practices.

When programs met that criteria, the sponsor agencies were invited to fill out a formal application. The application asks for a detailed program description including the population served, the number of individuals receiving services, future goals and other community accomplishments. The application also includes a form to track program goals and outcomes.

After completed applications were received at the end of March 2011, United Way volunteers and board members performed site visits and reviewed the programs. Goals and outcomes were discussed. This is a very important part of the process since United Way funding comes from our community, and our volunteers work hard to ensure that funds are spent locally on the most impactful programs.

Not every applicant receives the funds they request; this decision is based on many factors. Measuring program outcomes year after year is vital to indicate each program’s success. Allocations are based on current needs in the community; applicants are aware that funding changes as community needs change.

A final meeting was held mid-April to review program finances. Funding recommendations were brought to the board for final approval at the April board meeting.

After all of this, the “need” for 2012 is $661,000. Actual amounts paid out to programs in 2012 will be determined at the end of the 2011 fundraising campaign. If there is a shortfall in the amount that is raised by the community, agencies may need to adjust their program budgets.

More than ever, donors expect the United Way to be accountable for the funds we raise and distribute. As a nonprofit organization, we are proud to present our information to the public. Documents such as our 990 IRS filing, bylaws, agency funding levels, etc. are available on our website: www.unitedwayfc.org. Specific program accomplishments for the 2010 funding year may also be reviewed under the “Give” tab.

United Way continues to get requests for funding throughout the year. To address new and emerging needs, our organization has two distinct funds that are separate from the annual campaign: a venture fund and a contingency fund.

The venture fund was established to provide “seed money” for new and innovative programs that meet emerging community needs. It was created to encourage the development of new programs without adversely affecting the level of currently funded programs. The contingency fund was established to meet emergency needs of the United Way and our funded programs.

Last fall, the United Way Allocations Committee and Board of Directors approved funding a drug drop box at the Law Enforcement Center. This program is run by staff at the LEC and receives supplemental funding from the Drug Free Communities Grant (through Freeborn County Partners in Prevention). It was created to address the increased abuse of prescription drugs in our community and discourage residents from flushing medications into our waterways. Look for more information on this program and future plans in my next column, two weeks from now.

United Way’s goal is to create long-lasting changes by addressing the underlying causes of the problems we face as a community. It takes everyone in the community working together to create a brighter future. We look forward to continuing to work with all of you.

Live United.

Ann Austin is the executive director of the United Way of Freeborn County.