United Way awards $130,000 in capacity grants to strengthen nonprofit sector
Nine nonprofits in the region will receive a total of $130,000 in United Way grants designed to strengthen the sector, the organization announced Thursday.
United Way of Central Indiana’s Capacity Fund helps nonprofits advance their organizational infrastructure and internal operations so they can continue serving the community for years to come. Nonprofits use the grants in a variety of ways, including for internal development, training and evaluations.
The recipients of this funding cycle are:
The Children’s TherAplay Foundation – $5,400
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Indiana – $5,000
Edna Martin Christian Center – $11,500
Firefly Children and Family Alliance – $7,000
Flanner House – $17,000
Indianapolis Neighborhood Resource Center – $5,000
Kids’ Voice of Indiana – $40,000
Little Red Door – $24,100
Stability First – $15,000
In late 2024, nonprofits accredited with United Way were invited to apply for grants of up to $50,000. A committee of 13 community volunteers and United Way staff and board members reviewed 41 applications, selecting nine nonprofits to receive grant funding.
Nearly half of United Way’s accredited partners applied for funding, requesting over $1.4 million.
“The overwhelming demand for these funds points to the incredible need we're seeing in the community” said Isaac Mervis, United Way’s organizational development director. “Now more than ever, it's critical to invest in the infrastructure and operations of our nonprofit partners to support them in navigating the shifting landscape.”
Examples of how grant recipients will use the funds: leadership training, professional development, fundraising technology updates, and improved data tracking and reporting.
In Morgan County, the grant will help Stability First on its path to becoming a Medicaid reimbursable provider – ultimately diversifying revenue streams and allowing the nonprofit to continue serving clients experiencing homelessness through recovery programming. Funding will cover consulting to navigate credentialing, compliance, claims processing and billing.
“We are incredibly humbled and grateful to receive support from the United Way Capacity Fund,” said Robin Wonnell, Stability First’s executive director. “With this support, we are better positioned to strengthen our infrastructure, expand our services, and ensure that those who need care the most can access it without barriers.”