Organizational Impact Grants

In 2007, United Way of the Midlands implemented a new competitive grant program that recognizes exceptional organizational performance among partner agencies. These one-year grants ranged from $5,000 to $15,000 and were awarded to agencies that could demonstrate a high level of competence in one of four areas. UWM awarded $157,500 to support agencies' administration, operations or development.

Strong evaluation practices The partner agency evaluates its programs and uses the results to improve services to clients. Agencies with good evaluation practices frequently review the results of their programs, include client feedback in their evaluation, and widely distribute the results of their evaluation (to funders, board members and other community members).  Four agencies were awarded funds for strong evaluation practices.

Growing Home Southeast $15,000
Senior Resources $15,000
Florence Crittenton, NC $15,000
Family Service Center $15,000

Collaboration Agencies that collaborate well take advantage of resources offered by other agencies, coordinate services to better serve clients and when it improves efficiency, share operations such as volunteer management and property management. Five agencies were awarded funds for successful collaboration.   

Sexual Trauma Services $5,000
Boys and Girls Clubs $15,000
Communities in Schools of the Midlands $5,000
Collaboration Palmetto Center for Women $7,500
Collaboration Cooperative Ministry $7,500

Good governance Agencies that practice good governance regularly assess their operations for areas of possible improvement and have policies that are current with changing standards and laws for nonprofits. The agency staff is high quality and credentialed (as appropriate) and has opportunities for development while the board is engaged in self assessment. Five agencies received awards for strong governance practice.   

Big Brothers Big Sisters $5,000
Parenting Partners $7,500
Girl Scouts $7,500
MIRCI $15,000
Boy Scouts $7,500

Working toward long-term, systems level change The agency demonstrates that it participates in policy work, education or advocacy as needed or within its capacity. The agency collaborates with others who engage in policy or advocacy work. The agency, as represented by the board and staff, is viewed as a leader on particular community issues. One agency received an award for working toward systems level change.   

Eau Claire Cooperative Health Care Center $15,000