Mission Statement
United Way of the Ohio Valley (UWOV) unites communities to deliver solutions that improve the lives of individuals and families to ensure healthy communities, financial security, youth opportunities, and community resiliency.
Message from the CEO & Community Impact Director
Dear Community Partners,
On behalf of United Way of the Ohio Valley, thank you for your commitment to improving lives in our region. Your dedication, creativity, and passion are essential to building a stronger, more equitable community. These instructions are created to guide you through the funding process with clarity, transparency, and purpose. We look forward to partnering with you as we work to make measurable impact across the Ohio Valley.
Thank you for your continued support and for being a part of the change.
Warm regards,
Paula Yevincy, President & CEO
Vikki Embry, Director of Community Impact & Investment
United Way of the Ohio Valley
Introduction
The United Way of the Ohio Valley (UWOV) Grant Programs supports initiatives that create measurable community impact in the UWOV focus areas. The following instructions provides applicants with guidance on how to apply, manage awarded funds, and measure outcomes.
Grant Program Overview
UWOV offers competitive grants designed to support nonprofit organizations addressing priority needs across the Ohio Valley. These grants are intended to:
- Encourage collaboration among community partners.
- Support innovative and evidence-based solutions.
- Promote sustainable and measurable change.
UWOV's Focus Areas
Legacy Funding
- Youth Opportunity
- Healthy Communities
- Financial Security
- Community Resiliency
Impact Funding
- Affordable Housing
- Prevention and Intervention of Homelessness
- Financial Mobility
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
- Operate within United Way of the Ohio Valley's service area.
- Daviess, Hancock, Ohio, McLean, Union, and Webster Counties
- Demonstrate alignment with UWOV’s mission and focus areas.
- Show fiscal responsibility and transparency.
UWOV does not fund:
- Political or religious activities
- Individuals or for-profit entities
- Organizations that discriminate based on race, religion, gender, or other protected classes
- Legal Services
Application Process
Step 1: Review Guidelines
Before applying, review all sections of these instructions to ensure your organization meets eligibility requirements and aligns with UWOV priorities. After review of sections, please follow instructions for accessing the grant portal. If you have any issues, please contact Vikki Embry at vembry@uwov.org.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application to Include
- Organization overview and mission.
- Program description and community need.
- Implementation plan and timeline.
- Expected outcomes and measurement strategies.
- Required United Way Forms - download the following forms and be prepared to upload completed forms within the application
Step 3: Submit Application
Applications must be submitted electronically through the UWOV Grant Portal by the stated deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. The Grant Portal will close at the stated deadline.
Grant Review and Award
All applications are reviewed by the Community Investment Committee, composed of community leaders and subject matter experts. Evaluation criteria include:
- Alignment with UWOV mission and goals.
- Evidence of community need and impact.
- Program sustainability and collaboration.
- Measurable outcomes and reporting capacity.
Award notifications will be sent via email. Selected grantees must sign a funding agreement outlining expectations, reporting requirements, and timelines.
Reporting and Accountability
Grantees are required to submit mandatory reports detailing progress, challenges, and measurable outcomes. Reports should include:
- Program achievements and key data.
- Financial summary of expenditures.
- Impact stories and testimonials.
Failure to submit required reports may affect eligibility for future funding.
Contact Information
For questions or assistance, please contact:
United Way of the Ohio Valley
403 Park Plaza Drive
Owensboro, KY 42302
📞 (270) 684-0668 (general line)
📧 vembry@uwov.org (270) 684-0668, Ext 25
Submission Instructions:
- Please reach out to UWOV Staff if you forgot your password. We can inform you of the correct login information.
- LOGOUT (Be sure to log out once you have saved your draft or submitted your application)
Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Do not leave any blanks; enter N/A or 0 if not applicable.
Be sure to click "SAVE DRAFT" frequently (especially as you enter large amounts of information), you will be able to return and work on the application as time permits.
Be sure to click "SUBMIT" when completed. Once you have successfully submitted, you will no longer be able to view or edit your application on the portal. You will receive a copy of your successful submission to your email when completed.
Thank you for your partnership and commitment to creating lasting impact in our community!