My City November 2022

MYOUTREACH

“Thousands of people giving a tiny bit can collectively help others.” Jamie Gaskin, CEO

County, with six community chests, joined the organization. A new name for the Red Feather transformed the organization into the United Fund of Genesee and Lapeer Counties in 1970. At that time, United Way was still a closed system that raised and distributed funds for a set group of agencies. As community needs grew, it became increasingly apparent that the United Way could not be the sole support for a select few agencies; no longer could United Way raise money on the “give once for all” philosophy.The shift was reflected in the new name that the organization adopted in 1975, when it became the United Way of Genesee and Lapeer Counties. Today, United Way of Genesee Coun ty works in partnership with funders, human service agencies, educational institutions, health care providers and other groups to provide vital services for children and families.The independent community agency is governed by its own local volunteer Board of Trustees. “We judge our success not by the dollars raised, but by the number of people we have helped”, Gaskin concludes.

CREATING IMPACT 78%

$1,161,755 invested in Basic Needs programs 75% of program participants earned job-relevant certificates and/or credentials. 231 foster children received

of program participants increased their disposable income. 18,985 calls were made to UWGC’s 211 resource and referral line. 6,931 individuals transitioned from emergency shelter to more permanent housing.

a Court Appointed Special Advocate.

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