You have questions, we have answers.
At the United Way of the Ocoee Region, we are committed to being as transparent as possible when it comes to how we manage and invest donor dollars, so we've compiled a list of answers to the questions we are asked most frequently.
United Way is a nonprofit organization that strategically improves lives by breaking the cycle of poverty, meeting immediate basic needs, giving kids an equal chance, and building pathways to a healthy community. We're seeking solutions that create long-term, sustainable change.
UWOR is dedicated to understanding and highlighting the specific needs in Bradley and Polk Counties. These needs are determined thoughtfully through an evidence-based approach using a Community Needs Assessment facilitated by a committee of subject-matter experts (CNIC). The results of the CNIC Report guide our annual investments.
UWOR strives to help all neighbors of Bradley and Polk County in financial need. From homeless or impoverished families to families working paycheck-to-paycheck, nearly 47% of those living in our service area are in need. UWOR and its vast network of funded agencies ensure that anyone along the spectrum of need has access to resources.
We contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty by assisting with financial emergencies. Through the more than 35 agencies we fund and our internal programming (Ocoee Connect & Housing United), we work with families to ensure they receive the resources they need in a crisis. Additionally, we bring awareness to a quiet struggle by presenting compelling data to our corporate partners on the reality of ALICE households and utilizing media resources to educate our community.
Local nonprofits in good standing and who are committed to our community’s most pressing needs are invited to apply for funding through an annual competitive allocation process. Volunteer panelists and our Board of Directors determine funding decisions. The funds that are raised in our area stay here to support agencies locally. Today, we are supporting 35 local agencies and UWOR direct service programs (42 total programs). The funds raised in our area stay here to support agencies locally. View our funded partners here.
All funded agencies and internal programs must provide bi-annual results on the impact they have been able to achieve. We monitor these results for accuracy and assess how they've improved the lives of their client base, knowing our goal is for long-term strategic change.
No, UWOR has never funded Planned Parenthood in the entirety of its 85 years of service to our community. Additionally, United Way cannot fund any agency outside of its service area - there has never been a Planned Parenthood in Bradley or Polk County. United Ways across the United States are reflections of the values in their community. Our Board of Directors reflect our community’s values and our work is shaped by that.
The Women United Gala is United Way’s signature fundraising event for the community impact fund. Funds raised at the event support a network of 40+ nonprofit programs strategically meeting our community’s most pressing needs.