Organization to More Deeply Support Critical Community Needs
United Way of York County announces the decision to develop a multi-year plan to transform its community impact to an issue-focused model.
Historically, United Way of York County’s Impact Fund has financially assisted 64 programs that address multiple human service needs. Over the years, times have changed, conditions have changed, and doing things the way they’ve always been done no longer provides the level of support necessary to position our One York Community for long-term, sustainable success.
Following months of due diligence including donor and community surveying, meetings with partner agencies, and discussions with key stakeholders, funders, and campaign donors, the United Way of York County has decided to concentrate future efforts and allocations towards the issue of working households that struggle to cover basic living expenses. This was the overwhelming first choice of our surveyed donors, community leaders and the UWYC board and staff.
Anne Druck, United Way of York County President, states, “Working York County residents who make more than the federal poverty level but struggle to make ends meet were already on our hearts. During the pandemic, their needs became even more apparent as many faced unprecedented economic hardships. A new focus was necessary for real impact in their lives.”
Approximately one in four York County households earn more than the federal poverty level but do not earn enough to pay for basic needs. United Way of York County’s goal is to help bridge the gap for thousands of financially struggling, working households through short-term support while also building pathways to self-sufficiency.
According to Task Force Chair, William Hartman, “The adoption of an issue-focused model allows the United Way of York County to be more intentional, actionable, and deeply aligned with organizations and programs that support and empower these families in need.”
The transition to the new issue-focused model will take place gradually over the next three years and will consider the needs of our partner agencies. It is anticipated that the three-year transition plan will be developed over the next several months and be publicly announced in early 2023.
The 2022 Campaign that is currently underway will support the 2023-2024 service year. It will be the same funding process that we have done in the past to support our partner agencies and the 64 programs that they run. The funding will be based on the results of the 2022 Campaign.
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