WHY Impact Funding? 

• Engage community leaders & everyday citizens to work together

• Articulate community impact goals

• Program Solutions:

  • Drive Support to community organizations that have the most compelling, measurable results for individuals and families.

• Issue Initiatives:

  • Execute integrated solutions to pressing community challenges.

• Community Solutions:

  • Lead comprehensive, sustainable community change.

WHO Needs Help Based on Community Feedback?

Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed

ALICE gets up each day to go to work, but still faces financial barriers - working jobs that offer no health care, vacation, or paid sick leave. These workers hold jobs that are critical to the success and vitality of our communities, yet they often struggle to afford food, rent, childcare, and transportation, and have little left over for saving and investing.

HOW Can You Help Make an Impact?

Healthy Community

• Increase access to Healthcare
• Build the foundations for healthy families
• Promote regular mental, oral, & physical healthcare

Youth Opportunity

• Kindergarten readiness
• Promote social, emotional, physical & intellectual growth
• Safe educational opportunities

Financial Security

• Promote job training
• Connect families with housing & food services
• Create a stronger community

Community Resiliency

• Create stronger support network & access to essential resources
• Crisis preparedness & response
• Promote long-term stability by addressing systemic issues

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of grants does United Way of DeKalb County offer?

- We offer two funding opportunities each year: 

- ALICE Grants — Focused on programs that support households that are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. These grants fund initiatives addressing our four impact areas:

* Healthy Community

* Youth Opportunity

* Financial Security

* Community Resiliency

- Community Impact Grants — Support broader programs and initiatives that create long-term, measurable change in DeKalb County.

2. Who is eligible to apply for funding?

- Nonprofit organizations, community-based programs, and qualifying agencies that serve DeKalb County residents are eligible to apply. Applicants must demonstrate how their programs align with United Way of Des mission and impact areas.

3. When can I apply for a grant?

- ALICE Grant Cycle: Opens in August 18, 2025.

- Community Impact Grant Cycle: Opens in September 19, 2025.

Exact dates and deadlines are listed below.

4. Am I eligible if a representative from my organization did not attend a Grant Information Session?

- No, you are not eligible for either grant.  We highly encourage attending our annual meeting each year and require at least one representative from your organization to attend one of our information sessions. These sessions explain the application process, funding priorities, and reporting requirements. Registration details are posted on our website ahead of each cycle.

5. Are organizations required to participate in United Way of DeKalb County events to receive funding?

- While it is not a strict requirement, we strongly encourage agencies to participate in events like Day of Caring, Power of the Purse, and our Workplace Campaign. These events strengthen community connections, collaboration, partnership, and highlight the impact of funded programs.

7. Can my organization apply for both ALICE and Community Impact Grants?

- No. Organizations may apply for only one grant type per funding cycle to ensure equitable distribution of resources.

8. Where can I find more information or get help with my application?

- Visit our Grants Portal (linked above) for application.
- You can also email Community Impact Coordinator, Kirby Cool, at kirby@unitedwaydekalb.org for additional support.