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Who are the doers, the helpers, and the changemakers in your neighborhood?
United Way of the Greater Capital Region has been selected as one of 25 Community Host organizations for the 2026 Weaver Awards, a national initiative of Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute.
The Weaver Awards celebrate and support “weavers”—everyday neighbors who bring people together, strengthen a sense of belonging, and build trust within their communities. These individuals create meaningful change through acts such as volunteering, mentoring, organizing, teaching, advocating, and more, helping to strengthen the social fabric that connects us all.
Supporting Our Community Weavers
As a Community Host, United Way is making mini-grants of up to $5,000 to Weavers across our nine-county service area. These mini grants are designed to support weavers and grassroots organizations that bring their ideas to light and make positive change happen.
Help United Way in celebrating Weavers in our community by identifying the local Weavers in your community, share their stories of how they’re connecting with people and making a difference while building trust.
UNDERSTANDING WEAVERS
Weavers are trusted community members who:
- Build meaningful relationships
- Help neighbors solve problems
- Create spaces of belonging
- Strengthen trust and connection
Weaving invites people to:
- Discover what they have in common
- Learn how their differences can make the community stronger
- Work together toward the common good
We are looking for projects and ideas that:
- Bring people together to solve a problem
- Connect people, build relationships, and do good work in the community
- Are in your local community and happen in person
- Welcome everyone
- Go beyond a one-time event
- Have modest costs (grants up to $5,000)
- Anchored in: community gardens, family sporting events, removing barriers to participation, murals, clean-up days, book clubs, and more
WHO'S ELIGIBLE TO BE A WEAVER? YOU ARE!
It begins with a simple commitment...to see one another as equal in dignity, even when experiences and viewpoints differ.
United Way is looking for individuals and small nonprofits (operating budgets under $250,000) who are making a difference. Apply or nominate someone in your community and help us celebrate the Weavers who are connecting people and strengthening trust.
Learn More at the Next Weaver Mixer for Community Change
Tacos & Trust
Tuesday, May 5 | 4:30–6:00 PM
Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp
287 Main St, Schoharie, NY 12157
Community Building Social Trust
Friday, June 5 | 4:30–6:00 PM
Creative Connections Clubhouse
305 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY
First Cycle of Weaver Applications Launch June 2026
Check back for your opportunity to submit a weaver in your community
United Way will be hosting a series of community conversations throughout the spring and summer. Please join us to learn more about Weaving in your community and how to apply for the Awards. The calendar will be updated regularly as new events are added. Attendance is free, and registration is requested.