United Way of Northern Arizona Distributes $510,000 in Grants

Recently, the UWNA Board of Directors approved the distribution of more than $510,000 to 37 community programs that are making a difference in Coconino, Navajo and Apache counties.

Applications from nonprofit partners were meticulously reviewed by multiple Community Investment teams, who evaluated the work of these organizations, so that proven programs would receive the sustaining funding they need to continue to impact their communities. Their recommendations were forwarded to the Finance Committee and ultimately voted on by the Board.

Funds were distributed to assist with programs that align with one of UWNA”s three areas of impact: early childhood development, positive youth development, or safety and security.

In early childhood development, UWNA provided funding to maintain and expand the availability of affordable, high quality preschool education in both Flagstaff and Page. It also provided grants to programs that promote early childhood literacy, and a program designed to give instruction and support services to at-risk families with young children.

Positive youth developmentprograms that received funding included numerous initiatives for youth mentorship; programs that provide healthy lifestyle workshops; and efforts to reach and help homeless youth.

Nonprofits that provide Safety and Security received grants for programs that provide shelter, food, legal aid, help for victims of violence, and financial assistance in times of crisis.

Together these programs create a safety net for northern Arizona families in times of distress, while also investing funds in our youth to keep our communities thriving for generations to come.

Annually, all United Ways certify their adherence to standards that include comprehensive requirements for financial reporting, governance, ethics, diversity and operations.

Recently, United Way of Northern Arizona received its “thumbs up” icon, noting that it was among the United Ways that met its membership requirements for 2023.

Among the criteria that United Ways must meet are the following:

• Be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code as well as corresponding provisions of other applicable state or local regulations;
• Be governed by an active, responsible and voluntary Board of Directors who deliver on the organization’s mission to advance the common good;
• Follow a code of ethics for all volunteers and staff that includes provisions for ethical management, publicity and fundraising practices;
• Adopt diversity, equity and inclusion guidelines, including policies/statements opposing racial or ethnic discrimination and other forms of oppression and providing board and staff members training on racial equity.
• Undergo annual financial audits conducted by an independent CPA to ensure financial accountability.
• Conduct self-assessments of governance, financial management, and impact in the community to achieve performance excellence.

Our completion of the requirement for membership (which include the right to use the United Way logo) is one more reason you can be assured of our commitment and efficacy in improving life for those living in our region.