From early grade reading to support services for seniors, 106 programs operated by nonprofit agencies across the region are welcoming support totaling more than $7.6 million from United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region (UWBCKR).

“Because of our incredibly generous supporters, United Way is able to fund programs that are changing lives in meaningful ways,” said Michael Larson, President and CEO of UWBCKR. “More kids will learn to read well so they can succeed in school. More families will achieve financial stability. More people will embrace healthier lifestyles. More individuals in crisis will get the help they need.”

Larson said this year’s community investments, which total $7,651,690, meets or exceeds overall support provided both locally and regionally over the past several years. These grants cover the fiscal year beginning July 1. Beyond those investments, UWBCKR staff and volunteers helped to attract an additional $8.8 million this past year in secured, administered and leveraged funds that benefit communities in our region. UWBCKR also facilitated donor directed contributions totaling more than $2.1 million and organized more than 2,700 volunteers who participated in one-time or ongoing community improvement projects.

Larson provided some highlights from this year’s grants:

• Funding went to 106 programs in education ($1,812,860), income ($1,322,440), health ($2,834,750), and basic needs/community supports ($1,681,640).
• Investments are determined by a broad and diverse set of community volunteers who carefully review proposals from area organizations, visit agencies and make recommendations to the United Way Board of Directors. It’s a rigorous process that takes two years to complete.
• These community grants are one part of UWBCKR’s ongoing investments and grant-making. United Way also makes discretionary grants for local initiatives and supports ongoing region-wide initiatives such as the business partnership United 4 Change. 

“Changing the story in our communities is a collective effort that goes beyond funding,” said Larson. “People across our region are coming together to give, advocate and volunteer to make that happen.”

For a listing of UWBCKR Partners and Initiatives, please visit http://bit.ly/1quTmRt.