Date: July 13, 2005
Contact: Terry T. Smith (540) 777-4208

United Way Community Investments Generate Impact  

ROANOKE, VA— Roanoke Valley health and human service organizations made significant strides in strengthening the community last year, according to United Way of Roanoke Valley volunteers.

Findings of the group’s annual community investment process show that among partner agency programs receiving United Way donations, most are making a lasting impact on conditions that improve local quality of life. For example:

• Kindergarten readiness among graduates of childcare agencies with United Way funding was 97 percent, up from 89 percent last year.

• Among 11,000-plus youth in United Way-funded out-of-school programs, 90% improved confidence and leadership and decision-making skills.

• One hundred percent of seniors improved with counseling for depression tied to life changes, and 98 percent of caregivers reported lower stress levels.

• A program to get dropouts back in school succeeded with 95 percent of those contacted, and 80 people earned GEDs – and are pursuing higher education.

• Almost 95 percent of people counseled as domestic abusers had fewer incidences for three years after completing the program.

Evidence like this guided community investment volunteers in distributing $2,716,176 given to the United Way Fund during the 2004 community campaign. The United Way Board of Directors in June approved their recommendations to share funds among 64 programs at 27 local partner agencies.

“United Way‘s community investment process promotes effective funding, adds value for donors and promotes results that matter,” said Cheryl Hilton, chair of the Community Investment Committee. She was one of nearly 100 volunteers from more than 50 local companies that spent three months on the process.

“United Way promotes healthy change by emphasizing effective programs and giving support to those that produce positive, measurable results,” said Jim Hinson, United Way board chair. “We make sure that funded programs align with priority needs and have adequate resources to achieve results.”

Hinson added his appreciation for the outstanding volunteer support. “United Way is a force for positive change because of donors and volunteers who believe in our mission and make the Roanoke Valley a caring community,” he said. “Our community is fortunate to have so many people willing also to give of their time and talent for making important investment decisions.”

United Way of Roanoke Valley serves Roanoke, Salem and Vinton and the counties of Botetourt, Craig and Roanoke. Its mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of people in our community.