People who give generously to improve the community often wonder what happens to their donations after they provide their gift. At United Way of Escambia County, donors have the unique opportunity to help decide which local non-profit programs their money will support. United Way’s Community Investment process brings United Way donors together to make recommendations on how undesignated donations should be invested in the community. To volunteer as a Community Investment Committee member, register for training at United Way’s Community Room on February 22 from 2 to 4 p.m. or February 26 from 9 to 11 a.m.
Become a volunteer to experience what committee members consistently call the most rewarding way to learn about local non-profit programs! Maegan Leonard eagerly awaits the opportunity to visit more local programs during her second year of service. “Sure, most people know what the Boys and Girls Club is, but to get out and meet some of the children who are impacted by the program – that’s where it hits home.” Leonard explains, “Last year, I chose the education focus area because that is closest to my heart, but this year I may get involved in the financial stability or health focus areas to broaden my knowledge about those respective organizations.” Learning about local programs is the first step toward creating a community united in its efforts to produce better opportunities for all.
Through the Community Investment process, donors expand their commitment to improve Escambia County by adding volunteer to their list of United Way contributions. Volunteers collectively evaluate each nonprofit program requesting funding, tour program sites and listen to oral presentations that reveal how the agency operates and how it plans to utilize funding. This evaluation ensures that community donations reach programs with the capacity to meet diverse local needs. Volunteers must commit an estimated 30-35 hours to committee service from February through May.
Volunteers can rest assured that their service will powerfully affect the community. United Way’s Community Investment Board Chair and veteran volunteer in the process, John Floyd, added, “As volunteers, you have the opportunity to represent the collective power of donors who make a difference in our community. Your service is an investment in Escambia County’s future. I implore you to volunteer for this opportunity to ensure that future is bright.”
To volunteer as a difference maker through the Community Investment process, call Stephanie Crandall, Partnership Manager, at 850-444-7140 or email Stephanie@unitedwayescambia.org. Interested in volunteering but need to become a United Way of Escambia County donor first? Visit www.unitedwayescambia.org/donate to make a gift that will improve the lives of many.