United Way of the Greater Capital Region (UWGCR) is “Here for Good.” As a nearly 100-year-old not-for-profit, UWGCR offers support to every person, in every community. Its mission is to advance the common good in the Capital Region by taking the caring power of donors, volunteers, and community partners and using it to lift up local people in need in any way it can. Its vision is to be a recognized leader in the investment and development of programs and initiatives that improve the quality of life for all. This is incredibly important work which requires a dedicated team and financial support.
As a six-year member of UWGCR Board of Directors, I’ve had the opportunity to see first-hand, the incredible work that the organization and 70+ partner agencies have been doing in our communities. Examples of this work can be found in the more than 10,000 calls that have come through our 211 Call Center, close to 2 million meals served to kids through the Summer Meals Collaborative since 2013 or the 11,000 families who were connected to food, clothing, counseling services and more through our network of six Family Neighborhood Resource Centers.
The support for this work is strong, but, unfortunately, is decreasing over time. This observation is not unique to the Capital Region. In a recent report published by The Giving Institute, a team at Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy identified a significant decline in giving to nonprofits across the United States following a giving spike during the pandemic.
In a time where donors are dealing with the challenges of inflation and high interest rates, continuing support can be a challenge, even when the need is great. Not-for-profits, like the United Way, are navigating the same challenges, while the issues in our communities still exist and, in many ways, may have increased as a result of the pandemic.
As we enter the season of giving, please remember that you can still get a great return on your philanthropic investment and there are many practical and pragmatic reasons why you should consider giving to United Way of the Greater Capital Region. Here are just a few of those reasons:
- Giving to United Way allows you to diversify your support towards a variety of local needs, with a focus on Health, Education & Financial Stability
- United Way performs periodic Needs Assessments to ensure donor dollars are prioritized to those who need it most
- Funded programs & initiatives are reviewed annually to measure community impact and effectiveness
- Workplace Campaign donations through payroll deduction guarantee agencies annual funding opposed to sporadic giving
Regardless of how you support United Way, an investment in your community will pay dividends. A rising tide lifts all boats. I believe this wholeheartedly. As you make your year-end and holiday season giving decisions, please consider supporting United Way of the Greater Capital Region.
To donate to United Way of the Greater Capital Region or learn more about our community impact, click here.
With gratitude,
Brian Sano
Board Chair, United Way of the Greater Capital Region