This year, United Way of Muscatine’s grant application process will be a little different than in years past. “This year’s application process will include a letter of intent that has to be submitted about a month before the grant application is traditionally due.” explained Shane J. Orr, Executive Director. “We received feedback that agencies sometimes didn’t have much notice to adequately prepare for their tours and presentations. Having them submit a letter of intent before the grant applications are due will allow us to schedule tours and presentations with our volunteers well in advance. We want to make this process as easy as possible for all involved.”
If you plan to apply for United Way funding during the 2016/2017 granting cycle, make sure to attend training on December 9th at 8am at the Musser Public Library. RSVP to the United Way office at 563-263-5963. The training will review how to submit a letter of intent and how to apply for funding through United Way’s online system. If you cannot attend the training, but plan to apply for funding, call the United Way office to arrange some one-on-one assistance. Only agencies who submit a letter of intent will be able to apply for funding. However, the process for small grant applications will remain unchanged from last year.
“We are always looking for volunteers to help review grant applications and determine appropriate funding levels of community programs.” said Orr. “Volunteers are essential to our funding process. They review applications, go on tours and hear presentation. As a team, they determine how much funding programs should receive. United Way staff members do not make decision on grant awards.” Volunteers can expect to spend 10-14 hours of time in the month of February during the review process. They will also attend a 1 hour training in January. People interested in volunteering can contact Shane by calling the United Way office or by email at [email protected].