The United Way of the Dutchess-Orange Region (UWDOR) has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) under its Veterans Services initiative in partnership with the MISSION UNITED™ platform. This funding opportunity is aimed at improving financial stability and access to essential services for veterans and their families in Dutchess and Orange counties, New York. UWDOR seeks to invest in nonprofit partnerships from July 2025 to June 2026 to achieve meaningful outcomes in the veteran community.

Eligible programs can receive up to $10,000 in funding to support initiatives that enhance housing and legal assistance for veterans. Organizations awarded funding may be eligible for additional funding in subsequent years, contingent upon compliance with all United Way contract requirements. However, future funding is not guaranteed.

Programs applying for funding must align with UWDOR’s core funding criteria, including a commitment to community-level outcomes, cross-agency collaboration, and evidence-based or evidence-informed models. United Way prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate long-term impact, particularly those addressing homelessness prevention, legal representation, and financial security for veterans. Programs should also use measurable data to demonstrate success.

Applicants must submit proposals that emphasize collaboration. Programs that depend on external partners, such as government agencies or other nonprofits, are required to include letters of commitment from those organizations. Additionally, only year-round programs (not seasonal) will be considered for funding.

The application deadline is March 14, 2025, at 5 PM, with award notifications expected in June 2025. Applicants are encouraged to submit questions to ci-inbox@uwdor.org, and responses will be provided within 48 business hours. Successful programs will support veterans through legal services, housing assistance, and financial stability initiatives, ultimately working to reduce homelessness and increase overall well-being for veterans in the region.