Impacting Our Community

Many groups throughout the area distribute surveys to various populations.  The results of the surveys are utilized to re-structure a program, align an agency, provide evidential support for a grant or foundation request, or a host of other reasons.  Our community-wide survey was developed to mobilize the community.

Over the years funders have invested in agencies that do good work; more recently they are investing in outcome-based programs and services.  With limited resources, donors want to make certain that their money is making an impact in their community.  United Way wants that too.   It is no longer enough to state that your program will end hunger if people donate their time, talent and money to you; funders want to know 'how'.  'What are the benefits to the consumer when they utilize your program?'  'How is the consumer's life changed having been involved in your program?' 'What important lesson, skill, etc., did the consumer learn by participating in your program, that will enable them to rely less on your program in the future?'

United Way wants to 'give a hand up' to those who need it; most people don't want a 'hand out'.  We want to fund programs and services that create opportunities for a better life for everyone.  We believe that there are basic things that we all need for a good life - a quality education that leads to a stable job; income that can support a family through retirement; and good health.

Along with the United Way Worldwide, our goal is to create long-lasting changes by addressing the underlying causes of problems; that is how the United Way of Superior-Douglas County is making an impact on our community!