United Way of the Yampa Valley (UWYV) is accepting applications for its 2025 Grant Cycle, running from January 20, 2025, to February 16, 2025. The grant program funds nonprofit organizations that provide services aligned with the organization's mission to improve education, financial stability, and health within Routt, Moffat, and Rio Blanco counties in Colorado. Applicants must demonstrate how their programs will positively impact low-income and at-risk individuals, including those identified in the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) Report. Programs should focus on measurable outcomes, organizational stability, and alignment with UWYV’s community impact goals.

The grant supports programs that address four key community impact goals: early childhood development, youth support, financial stability, and health and crisis services. Programs for young children should focus on quality preschool, childcare access, and literacy development. Youth programs should support transitions between school levels, promote financial literacy, discourage substance abuse, and address bullying. Financial stability initiatives should build financial resilience, reduce food insecurity, and enhance job training. Health and crisis services should expand mental health support, address substance abuse, prevent domestic violence, and improve healthcare access in rural areas.

UWYV offers two types of grants. The Community Program Grant allows nonprofits to apply for up to $5,000 in annual funding for projects that help lower-income individuals meet basic needs or improve their potential. The Regular Grant has no set funding cap and supports larger-scale programs that meet UWYV's community impact goals. Applications must align with program priorities, and funding is strictly for programmatic use rather than general operations or capital equipment.

Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt, financially stable, and overseen by an engaged Board of Directors. Childcare and preschool providers must hold a Colorado Shines rating of at least 1. Programs must serve primarily lower-income residents of Routt, Moffat, or Rio Blanco counties. Funding is not available for sports or sports enhancement programs. Applicants must demonstrate strong program management and evaluation capabilities.

The application process requires organizations to complete a pre-qualification meeting between January 15-17, 2025, before submitting a formal application. All applications and supporting documents must be submitted by February 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM MST. Past grant recipients must submit a Grant Report by the same deadline. The Community Investment Committee will review applications and conduct follow-up conversations with select applicants before making final award decisions. Award notifications and feedback will be provided in May and June 2025.

For questions or to schedule a pre-qualification meeting, applicants can contact Jennifer Bruen at director@unitedwayyv.org or call 970-879-5605. The complete evaluation rubric is available on the UWYV website to help applicants understand funding priorities.