Make a Lasting Impact: Volunteer on the United Way Community Impact Review Panel
A new year often brings fresh goals and renewed intention. Maybe this is the year you want to give back more, deepen your connection to the community, or use your skills in a way that truly matters.
If volunteering is on your list of goals for the year ahead, United Way of Cass-Clay invites you to consider a powerful way to get involved—by serving on our Community Impact Review Panel.
Turning Good Intentions Into Real Impact
United Way’s work is rooted in understanding local challenges and investing in solutions that help lift families out of poverty. Each year, local nonprofit organizations apply for United Way funding to support programs that strengthen our community—programs that help children succeed, families become stable, and individuals build brighter futures.
The Community Impact Review Panel plays a critical role in this process.
As a panel member, you help determine how United Way dollars are invested by carefully reviewing grant applications and evaluating how each program aligns with United Way’s strategy and desired outcomes. This is a hands-on opportunity to be part of decisions that directly impact our neighbors experiencing poverty.
A Volunteer Experience That Goes Deeper
This is not a traditional volunteer role—and that’s what makes it so meaningful.
Community Impact Review Panel members:
- Receive training on United Way’s investment strategy, evaluation criteria, and desired community impact
- Review written grant applications from local nonprofits
- Attend in-person presentations to hear directly from organizations serving our community
- Provide thoughtful feedback that helps guide funding recommendations
You don’t need prior grant review experience—just a passion for the community and a willingness to engage thoughtfully in the process.
Why Serve on the Review Panel?
Many volunteers tell us this experience gives them a deeper understanding of local needs, nonprofit work, and how strategic investments can create lasting change. It’s a chance to:
- See firsthand how United Way works behind the scenes
- Use your perspective, skills, and voice for good
- Connect with other community-minded leaders
- Make a meaningful impact in a short, defined period of time
If one of your resolutions this year is to volunteer with purpose, this is an opportunity to do just that.
Ready to Start the Year by Giving Back?
United Way of Cass-Clay investors who are interested in serving on the Community Impact Review Panel are encouraged to apply.
- Application opens: January 26
- Application deadline: February 15
- Funding decisions finalized by: Friday, February 20
Apply to volunteer here: https://epledge.uwcc.net/comm/SurveyNE.jsp?SurveyKeyHex=585B69246341467058647E3E
To learn more or ask questions, please contact Ali at aott@unitedwaycassclay.org.
This year, make your goal more than a resolution.
Make it an investment in our community.