UWRC Allocations: A Community Lead Process
Who knew that one of my favorite moments each year at United Way of Reno County would be our community allocations process.
On the surface, allocations are about funding programs. This year, UWRC will invest $950,000 in 39 programs across 23 partner agencies that are working every day to strengthen lives and build a stronger Reno County. But the story behind those investments is just as important as the programs themselves.
At United Way, funding decisions are not made by staff alone. They are made by community members.
This year, a record-breaking 38 volunteers participated in the allocations process—the largest group in our organization's history. These volunteers represented a variety of professional backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives from across Reno County. Together, they dedicated their time, energy, and thoughtful consideration to reviewing applications, discussing community needs, and helping determine where resources can make the greatest impact.
What I appreciate most about this process is that we ask volunteers to show up not only as professionals, but as neighbors. We encourage them to think through the lens of the people they know and care about—the families they work alongside, the friends they support, the children growing up in our community, and even their own experiences. That community perspective is invaluable.
The programs selected for funding align with United Way's four focus areas: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. Together, these programs address both immediate needs and long-term solutions.
While crisis response will always be important, we are equally committed to investing in upstream work—efforts that help prevent challenges before they become crises. Whether that means supporting early childhood development, helping families achieve financial stability, strengthening mental health resources, or creating opportunities for young people to succeed, we know that lasting change happens when we address root causes, not just symptoms.
This work is especially important in a community where many families are working hard but still struggling to make ends meet. According to recent ALICE data, 42% of Reno County households are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) or living in poverty, a percentage that exceeds the Kansas state average. These are families who are often one unexpected expense away from financial hardship despite working and contributing to our community every day.
Our hope is that through the programs we fund, our work through Reno Connections, and our collaborations with community partners, we can help relieve some of the pressure facing these households. When families experience even a little more stability, support, and opportunity, they gain the capacity not just to survive, but to thrive.
As we look ahead to another year of impact, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the volunteers who participated in this process. Their willingness to invest their time and share their perspectives demonstrates what makes Reno County special. The allocations process is a reminder that the best solutions for our community come from the community itself.
Thank you for helping us build a stronger Reno County—together.