Our Process

United Way focuses on results. The process of how community priorities are determined, and how United Way of St. Joseph County focuses community resources to impact those priorities, is what sets United Way apart from other not-for-profit organizations. We believe that no one agency working alone can achieve as much as we can by working together.

Because of our long history in St. Joseph County , we can engage civic leaders in problem solving and turn to corporations for expertise, resources and volunteers. No other organizations in Michiana are better positioned to lead systemic change.

1. RESEARCH

Before we ask you for a contribution, United Way of St. Joseph county does extensive research to determine the community's current and emerging human service needs, along with the resources already in place to meet those needs.

2. PRIORITIES

Once the needs and gaps in resources are known, knowledgeable volunteers help United Way determine the most critical needs and the outcomes that must be achieved to meet them.

3. STRATEGY

Volunteers and staff develop comprehensive strategies to change the conditions causing the community's problems. This proactive approach serves not just to meet the needs, but to align our work to eliminate them.

4. DEVELOPING RESOURCES

United Way of St. Joseph County invites you to join thousands of other people investing in our community. United Way's unique ability to combine resources and apply them to carefully planned strategies is the most powerful way to improve the lives of people living in St. Joseph County.

5. INVESTMENT

United Way strategically invests in proven programs and services that together achieve the outcomes that will best improve our community.

6. MEASURING RESULTS

Reviewing the outcomes and their impact on our community is the important final step. Results are evaluated and reported back to the community.