United Way of Southwestern Indiana officials officials on Tuesday said a new grant is available to nonprofits in Vanderburgh, Warrick and Spencer counties.
The United Way board voted to make up to $200,000 available for local programs that aimed at putting people on the road to self-sufficiency. Agencies that apply for funding don't necessarily have to be current United Way partners. The board will award funding to as many as 15 applicants.
Programs that are chosen for grants should be innovative and foster collaboration, with the specific goal of giving individuals and families a hand up, said Matt Theby, a United Way board member.
Funding will be drawn from the United Way's 2016 campaign, which achieved its goal of $4.6 million.
The United Way issued a request for proposals Monday on its website. Informational sessions for interested agencies are planned from 9-10 a.m. April 6 and from 3-4 p.m. April 11 at the local United Way office, 501 NW Fourth St. in Evansville.
Agencies must submit a letter of intent to apply for grants by May 1.
The grant process came about as a result of the United Way asking the community what more can be done to make a difference, officials said at a news conference Tuesday.
"It is looking for new ways to make a lasting impact," said Amy Canterbury, CEO of the local United Way. "We are looking for new and better ways to impact folks in our community."