United Way Reno County Invests $900,000 into Local Support Programs
United Way of Reno County announced plans to invest $900,000 in 38 local programs this coming year-- reinforcing its commitment to addressing the most challenging needs of the community and directly impacting more than 19,000 local Reno County residents through various services. This year’s UWRC investment represents a $50,000 increase in funding-- thanks to the generous donors of this community.
Another new component to this year’s process involved the reimagining the investment decision process called “allocations”. This year’s allocations process required more than 30 dedicated volunteers to review program applications, study budgets and outcome data, seek clarity in work thorough partner interviews and make thoughtful, challenging decisions about how the funding would be dispersed among the four impact areas of: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security and Community Resiliency.
Youth Opportunity: Investing in Strong Starts and Brighter Futures
A significant portion of this year’s funding — $341,742 across 10 programs — is dedicated to Youth Opportunity. These initiatives will reach 3,357 young people, supporting needs ranging from early childhood development to mentorship, leadership opportunities, and educational programs.
“When we talk about Youth Opportunity, these programs will not only help kids succeed in school and avoid risky behaviors or situations — they’re also shaping the next generation of community leaders,” said Lacey Mills, UWRC CEO.
Healthy Communities: Building Access and Supporting Healthy Opportunities
The second focus area, Healthy Communities, is centered on ensuring people throughout Reno County have access to the education, support, and resources they need for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. UWRC is investing $198,359 into 14 programs, reaching an estimated 11,095 people.
Programs in this area address issues such as mental health training, suicide prevention, disability support, and water safety education. These upstream investments aim to prevent crisis by building healthier systems and community resilience.
Financial Security: Lifting Up Working Families
Recognizing the importance of financial stability as a foundation for all other areas of life, UWRC is dedicating $123,344 for 8 programs focused on Financial Security. These initiatives will serve approximately 2,220 individuals and families, offering emergency financial assistance, tax prep support, and services to help people remain housed and employed.
“Many of the people we serve fall into the ALICE category — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed,” Mills explained. “These are families who earn too much to qualify for assistance, but not enough to make ends meet. Our goal is to help build stronger safety nets and real pathways to long-term stability.”
Community Resiliency: From Immediate Needs to Long-Term Stability
The final investment area — Community Resiliency — focuses on the systems and services that help Reno County respond effectively during times of hardship, while also addressing long-term safety and independence needs. Five programs will receive $236,555, impacting approximately 2,675 individuals and many more indirectly.
These programs include emergency shelters, victim advocacy, crisis response, and volunteer engagement efforts. Though often behind the scenes, they play a vital role in ensuring individuals and families have somewhere to turn when navigating emergencies or rebuilding after trauma.
“Community resiliency is about how we show up for one another in the hardest moments,” said Mills. “It’s a crisis line answered in the middle of the night, a shelter bed when someone has nowhere else to go, or a supportive hand helping someone find and maintain their independence.”
A Community-Wide Effort
This year's funding represents more than just dollars — it’s a reflection of shared values, deep compassion, and strategic vision.
“To everyone who gave their time, their energy, and their resources — thank you,” said Mills. “This is what it looks like when a community shows up with heart, purpose, and commitment. Thank you for trusting United Way and our partners to do this work!”
