The United Way of Berks County offers the LIVE UNITED Grant to support grassroots and community-based initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents of Berks County, Pennsylvania. This funding opportunity is designed to foster collaboration and creativity in addressing local neighborhood challenges, grounded in the belief that collective community action drives positive change. The grant prioritizes “great ideas” that engage the community and encourage civic involvement through projects that improve life in Berks County.

The LIVE UNITED Grant provides one-time funding of up to $5,000 for events or projects that support one or more of the organization’s four key focus areas: Education, Financial Stability, Health, and Safety Net Services. Within these focus areas, eligible activities may address issues such as early childhood education, youth development, job skills training, mental health, wellness, and basic needs for vulnerable populations. The projects funded are expected to be collaborative and have a meaningful, visible impact on the community.

Funding cannot be used for individual aid, debt repayment, fundraising events, religious or political activities, or attendance at conferences and workshops. The grant is not intended to establish long-term funding relationships, and recipients are expected to secure other funding for ongoing work beyond the scope of the grant.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and community groups operating with a fiscal agent. These organizations must provide health or human services in Berks County and operate with an annual budget below $250,000. Collaborative proposals are allowed, but the budget cap applies to all partners involved. Former recipients may reapply, but cannot request funding for a previously supported program.

Applications must be submitted via the e-CImpact platform and must include a detailed organization and project description, demographic data, budget, IRS determination letter, and metrics for evaluating project success. Applications are reviewed in one of four cycles throughout the year, with deadlines in February, May, August, and November. Applicants will be notified of the results within about five to six weeks of the deadline. Funded projects must be completed within 12 months, and a final report is due in February of the year following the project’s completion.

Technical support is available through Amanda Hansen, while general grant inquiries can be directed to Kristin Gehris. Contact information, including email and phone numbers, is clearly provided to assist applicants throughout the process.