(From the United Way of Hancock County)

Each year, a crucial team of community volunteers helps United Way of Hancock County in its funding decisions by reviewing grant applications and providing input as to where campaign dollars can have the most positive local impact. These volunteers make up Impact Teams, and the United Way is looking to recruit approximately 40 Impact Team volunteers by Sept. 12.

United Way of Hancock County is entering its grant review season for 2026 Partner Agency funding. Each year, local nonprofit agencies apply for and receive funding generated through United Way’s Annual Campaign, which in 2024 raised $1.7 million for disbursement in 2025. Funding is recommended by a revolving group of trained community volunteers who review partner agencies’ grant applications and make recommendations to the United Way board of directors on which nonprofits to fund and at what level.

United Way is looking to engage a diverse demographic to provide input on this important annual process.

“The community’s involvement in this process is vital,” said Kelley McClurkin, CEO of United Way of Hancock County. “Giving our community members the opportunity to review our local resources and learn more about the population each nonprofit serves is an eye-opening experience for our volunteers. It is an opportunity to ensure that the most critical needs in our community are being addressed.”

Impact Team members attend a short training course at the end of September and review seven to 10 applications at their own pace throughout October. No grant reading experience is needed. The volunteers will attend one meeting in mid-November to discuss the applications with their teammates and make recommendations for funding.

United Way of Hancock County has set this year’s campaign goal at $1.8 million. Every donation made to the campaign stays in the community to help measurably improve people’s lives. To learn more about Impact Team involvement or sign up, email impact@uwhancock.org or call 419-423-1432.