For over 80 years, United Way of Metro Chicago has aimed to mobilize caring individuals to invest in the communities most in need. Working alongside community stakeholders and organizations, it focuses on supporting individuals and families in basic needs, health, education, and financial stability – the foundational pillars for strong households and neighborhoods. In response to the exacerbated economic and health impacts from COVID-19, it also prioritizes crisis services, aiming for a stronger, more equitable Chicago region through both immediate and long-term recovery efforts.
The Impact Fund by United Way of Metro Chicago is centered around a competitive application process targeting programs with a high impact on individuals and families within their service area. Successful applicants must align with United Way's strategic goals, leverage evidence-based service delivery models, and demonstrate effective outcomes through robust data. Moreover, these programs should be integrated within United Way’s measurement framework, underscoring a commitment to both immediate relief for those in crisis and the sustainable rebuilding of neighborhoods for long-term recovery, including a concentration on quality basic needs services, innovation in systemic transformation, and cohesive, community-focused efforts.