Here's what you'll find in this edition:

 - A note from Chris
 - Capital Area Community Impact Grants now open
 - MLK Day of Service is Jan. 15
 - Local updates

A Note From Chris

As we approach the end of 2023, I'm filled with gratitude for all that we've accomplished together. The support of our regional community has made it possible for United Way of South Central Michigan to create opportunities for many individuals and families in our region to thrive.

We've helped families stay in their homes in Kalamazoo, adults get and retain good-paying jobs in Jackson, nonprofits prioritize health in Battle Creek, and high school students in the Lansing area gain access to higher education. But there's still more work to do.

Too many people’s wages are falling behind as the cost of living increases, too many children don’t have enough to eat, and too many barriers are holding people back.

That's why I'm asking you today to consider an end-of-year gift to United Way SCMI if you’ve not yet done so. Did you know that for every dollar donated, United Way puts an additional $3.50 back into community? Your donation, multiplied through additional grants and government funding, will help us continue to create opportunities for families and individuals so that everyone has the chance to thrive.

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With gratitude,
Chris Sargent
President & Executive Director

Create an Opportunity. Donate Today.

Capital Area Grant Process Now Open

The Capital Area Community Impact Grant process is under way for nonprofits in Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties. Applications will be accepted until 5 p.m. on Jan. 26. Additionally, UWSCMI is seeking grant reviewers to help review and recommend potential grant proposals for funding in 2024. Prior experience is not necessary. There will be an orientation in early February, and the grant decision-making day is scheduled for March 6. Register to volunteer here. For questions on submitting a grant application or volunteering to review grants, contact Celaina Boylan-Castilla at [email protected]  or Michele Strasz at [email protected].

Learn more about grant application

Register to review grants

MLK Day of Service is Jan. 15

In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, designating the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service. Taking place each year on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as such.

The MLK Day of Service calls for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems. The MLK Day of Service empowers individuals, strengthens communities, bridges barriers, creates solutions to social problems, and moves us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”

Join us in embracing the day as one of service. Check out our local volunteer centers to find an opportunity that's meaningful to you.

Find a volunteer opportunity

Local Highlights

CAPITAL AREA

FAFSA Time: This year's Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be available on Dec. 31. It comes with a few changes this year, but our CapCAN program has you covered! Read the latest newsletter to learn more about this year's process, and check out what's available in the #FAFSAFlocked campaign toolkit to help spread the word.

More Capital Area News
    
JACKSON

What is JobSTAR?: JobSTAR (Support Talent and Retention), a UW program, is a resource for employers to help their employees overcome obstacles that may impede their ability to work. A Success Coach confidentially works with employees of participating businesses. Learn more about how JobSTAR supports employees.

More Jackson County News

BATTLE CREEK

Volunteering in Battle Creek: UWSCMI staff members had a great time volunteering at the Tri-County Labor Agency Food Bank last week, serving 89 families for a total of 266 people!

More Battle Creek News
    
KALAMAZOO

K-Wings & UWSCMI: Thank you to everyone who came out to the Nov. 22 K-Wings game, bought a jersey, or stopped by the United Way table. Proceeds that night went to UWSCMI, and we are so grateful for the support!

More Kalamazoo News

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