United Way seeks to assist nonprofits
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
Non-profit health and human service organizations serving Aroostook County citizens may now apply to the United Way of Aroostook for funds that were raised during the annual capital campaign.
Don Zillman, president of the UWA board of directors, and Cheri Doak, chairman of the agency relations committee, recently announced applications for 2012-13 are now available and can be obtained by contacting the UWA office.
“This year, the United Way of Aroostook will be helping to support County-based agencies and programs that are helping meet the most crucial health and human service needs of Aroostook’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Claudia Stevens, UWA executive director.
Education, income and health are the building blocks of good life, said Stevens.
“When any one of these is missing, people and communities are at risk. Without a quality education, it can be difficult to earn sufficient income to meet basic needs, which includes good health,” said Stevens.
Stevens said the three elements are strongly connected.
“Without one’s health, a person may struggle to earn a living wage or take advantage of educational opportunities. That’s why United Way is focusing its effort on these three critical areas,” continued Stevens.
“Our goal is to create lasting changes and prevent problems from happening in the first place. Our focus areas are promoting self-sufficiency and meeting basic needs, supporting seniors, and supporting children and families. If you are a nonprofit that responds to any of these needs, we would like to hear from you,” said Stevens.
Applications for funding and other information about the application process are available by calling the UWA at 764-5197. The deadline for submitting completed applications is Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 4 p.m.
“Immediately following the deadline, a task force of volunteers recruited from throughout Aroostook County will begin the process of reviewing and evaluating the applications. The board of directors will announce funding decisions in May,” said Stevens.
