Community Grants Support Nonprofits Focused on Basic Needs, Affordable Housing, Education & Early Child Care
DENVER – Mile High United Way is pleased to announce a $1.9 million investment in 73 organizations across the Metro Denver region. Organizations were selected following a new, trust-based grantmaking process designed and implemented by Mile High United Way staff.
The current grantees include nonprofits across Metro Denver, as well as Boulder and Broomfield counties, seeking to help people meet their basic needs or access affordable housing, education and early child care. From after school programming for at-risk youth to redistributing quality, unused food to reduce waste and ensure families have access to food – these innovative projects are helping meet the needs of our community.
See the full list of funded partners here.
“Mile High United Way is proud to be a leader in our community, adapting to meet the needs of our neighbors – and those working alongside us to serve them,” said Christine Benero, president and CEO of Mile High United Way. “However, we know the need is greater than any one organization can meet. We are proud to invest in these 73 community partners striving to ensure every family can access the resources they need to thrive.”
To make the grant application process more equitable, staff considered how to shift power and build accountability with applicants. Rather than reviewing written applications – a historically common practice – organizations shared their vision, mission, purpose and programs through virtual conversations with an anonymous panel of Mile High United Way staff, volunteers, donors and community members.
Panelists and applicants alike praised the new process as it was equitable, transparent and centered on the voices of the organizations and the people they serve.
“Through our inclusive, innovative approach that emphasizes the power of stories and genuine conversations over traditional grant writing, we are championing organizations that make a profound impact on their communities. This method not only highlights their true needs but also fosters deeper connections and more meaningful partnership,” said Roweena Naidoo, Mile High United Way’s vice president of policy and community initiatives.
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About Mile High United Way
Mile High United Way, the first United Way in the world, was founded in Denver in 1887. Working side by side with the community, Mile High United Way takes on critical human services issues facing our seven-county footprint including the Metro Denver, Boulder and Broomfield communities. Our united approach changes the odds for all children, families and individuals in our community, so that we all can succeed.
