For the agencies receiving funding, the impact of United Way backing is profound. Beyond the financial support, United Way's investment serves as a vote of confidence, validating their efforts to effect positive change. It provides stability and continuity, enabling these organizations to expand their reach and deepen their impact within the community.
In order to achieve its mission of improving the lives of all local residents, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County has identified four strategic areas of impact which it requires that programs to fit into in order to qualify for funding. Those areas are: Youth Opportunity, Health Equity, Community Resilience and Self-Sufficiency.
In 2014, United Way switched from funding programs yearly to a 2-year funding cycle. A change was also made to institute an outcome-based funding approach.
Agencies receiving funding are required to report back to United Way every six months, providing United Way with data regarding the impact and effectiveness of their programs.
United Way currently supports 46 local programs administered by 38 community agencies, underscoring our role as a catalyst and connector for the region.
Having recently completed our 2025-2027 allocations process, UWCHQ is not accepting applications for funding at this time.
Archived below is information from the 2024-2025b allocations process for funding in the two-year 2025-2027 funding cycle.
United Way of Chautauqua County 2025-2027 Funding Cycle
In 2024, the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County and the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County merged. United Way’s annual fundraising campaign provides the resources to make grants in the areas of Youth Opportunity, Health Equity, Community Resilience and Self-Sufficiency. Funds are granted on a two year cycle.
Below you will find our new RFP for the 2025-2027 funding cycle. You can download the RFP by clicking here or clicking the photo below.
Information Sessions
We held two informational round table sessions in December on two different ends of the county to give local agencies the chance to attend one of two options. During these sessions, we reviewed the attached document and application process, as well as provided information on additional agenda items. A recording of the first session, which ended up being held exclusively on Zoom, can be found below:
A summary of the Dunkirk session can be downloaded by clicking here.
Questions
If you need assistance or have questions about the application process, including using Chautauqua Grants, please contact Eric Rinaldo, Community Impact Manager, via erinaldo@uwayscc.org or by calling either the Dunkirk (716-366-5424) or Jamestown office (716-483-1561).