The United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) recently announced their 2022-23 Community Investment Grant recipients. Over $1 million dollars will be funded to organizations who are aiming to tackle issues such as financial security, housing, childcare & education, and food insecurity. These grants are available through a rigorous application and review process for Collier and Monroe County social service nonprofit organizations.“We are proud of the community impact and partnerships that our grant program enables,” said UWCK President and CEO Steven Sanderson. “Being able to support and increase awareness of the vital work these agencies do in our communities is critical to the mission of the United Way of Collier and the Keys.”
UWCK is awarding grants to 19 agencies in Monroe County and 23 in Collier County. Applications were due in January, with site visit review and agency interviews conducted throughout both counties in February. UWCK staff and volunteers worked to evaluate and recommend the 37 local agencies that are receiving grants.
“It’s incredible to see the diversity and scope of work being done by our Community Investment Grant partners,” UWCK Keys Area President Leah Stockton said. “These partnerships ensure that those in need throughout our counties can access the services they require. We are excited to work alongside these organizations as we work together to further our mission of creating thriving communities.”
Community partnerships help create bridges between donors and those in need. In addition to the Community Investment Grants, UWCK works with funded agencies as a key part of their system of coordinated referrals and information sharing.
“Community funding has helped us expand our offerings,” said Michael Cunningham, CEO of Florida Keys Area Health Education Center (AHEC). “Being a United Way grant recipient has allowed us to open our mobile dental clinic and to continue to provide care to the medically underserved throughout the Florida Keys.”
