Opinion

Opinion

United Way: 90 Years of Meeting Needs

On occasion, we are asked, “why give to the United Way and not simply make a direct contribution to my agency of choice?” This is a very important question for all of us at the United Way, and here are a few answers.

The United Way is a volunteer-driven organization committed to addressing the most critical needs in our community. We determine those needs by researching and analyzing the prevalence of a social problem and the critical needs in the communities we serve. After gathering the data, we look for opportunities where an investment of funding will yield a measurable return on the investment.

We are no longer simply reporting the number of people served, but also focusing on the outcomes of the service provided. This no easy feat given the reality that it often takes years to change behaviors and achieve tangible outcomes and results, but we know we are making an impact based on benchmarks and regular reports. We are also implementing and supporting science-based and results-oriented approaches and service-delivery models that have demonstrated positive outcomes in communities like ours. We are holding the organizations (funded through a competitive grant-making process) accountable, and we are holding ourselves accountable to the thousand of donors and investors.

United Way of Pioneer Valley has embarked on its celebration of 90 years of service in the Pioneer Valley. Over the past decade, UWPV has distributed more than $50 million dollars to nonprofits serving children, families, elders, and individuals with special needs and circumstances. The dollars help support those services that feed the hungry and offer emergency housing and assistance for victims of domestic violence, homelessness, and fires. Critical funding is also dedicated to improving high-school graduation rates, early-childhood education, reading by grade 4 in Holyoke and Greater Springfield, and youth development and prevention services.

We recently launched a regional initiative to address income disparities, workforce development, and the financial stability of low-income and working families. These efforts will not only strengthen families, but will impact quality of life and economic development throughout the Pioneer Valley. Over the last three years, we have also committed resources to help nonprofits build greater capacity through partnerships and collaborations, so limited resources can provide expanded services to youth and families; every dollar invested leverages additional dollars from other funding sources.

Additionally, our financial support of Mass 211, an information and referral system, provides an immediate response to individuals searching for social services in their respective communities. Residents in our service area (Hampden County, South Hadley, and Granby) are the second-highest users of Mass 211 in the Commonwealth. What an amazing resource financed through contributions made to the United Way. These are examples of investments for the common good, and we will all benefit.

Our 90th anniversary has provided an opportunity to reflect, rejuvenate, and rejoice. We would like to thank our corporate, business, and social-service partners for hosting annual workplace campaigns, and our donors who make online contributions or send a check in the mail. Special thanks to the board of directors and our volunteer leaders, campaign coordinators, and local, regional, and statewide supporters. Your contributions of time, talent, and money truly make a difference.

Our resolve is to continue the rich tradition and history of this organization and do more to address the escalating social needs and conditions confronting our communities. How can we do more? Through the generosity and investment of individuals who believe they have a responsibility and desire to contribute to the common good of all. These people remain essential to our efforts. Please join us in celebrating our 90th anniversary. Visit our website (www.uwpv.org) for information about how you, too, can Live United … Today. Tomorrow. Forever.

Dora Robinson is the president and CEO of the United Way of Pioneer Valley.