Few people would argue that our region is the same as it was 80-plus years ago.

United Way of the River Cities (UWRC), which has been an integral part of improving the lives of people in our region, is not the same as it was when it opened its doors in 1922.

Yes, some things have stayed the same — United Way still coordinates successful workplace fundraising campaigns, volunteers play a key role in helping raise and distribute those dollars to the community and the organization continues to be an excellent steward of donor dollars, ensuring that they are put to the best use to serve people.

Conversely, other things have changed — how United Way raises those funds, how they are distributed, and what those dollars are invested in. In addition to a year-round workplace campaign, UWRC also conducts fundraising events throughout the year. Outside grants support much of United Way’s initiative work.

For many years, funds were directed to “member agencies” with the focus on funding the agency. Presently, United Way invests in programs that best address critical issues within four Focus Areas, and in Safety Net services. United Way ensures that dollars are directed to programs that make the greatest impact in the community.

In the past “member agencies” submitted an application for membership with a request for funding.

Member status generally remained unchanged unless the organization failed to adhere to certain standards or voluntarily withdrew.

Each year member agencies submitted a request for funding that was reviewed by volunteer-based committees and ultimately approved by the United Way Board of Directors.

Presently, United Way has “funded partners.” These are organizations that receive funding for a program or project that furthers our work in the areas of Learning and Earning, Health and Wellness, Families and Children, Basics Needs, and Safety Net services.

The first step in the funding process is a letter of intent. Letters of intent are reviewed and scored by volunteers. Those scoring 60 points or above (on a 100 point scale) are invited to submit a full application.

The full grant application process involves a review by volunteers and interviews with the agency’s staff. The applications are scored and final recommendations for funding are approved by the board of directors.

Although the funding process may be different from that in the past, it is the best approach to distributing funds to the community.

The process is open to all health and human service non-profit agencies within United Way’s service area — Cabell, Wayne, Mason and Lincoln counties in West Virginia and Lawrence County, Ohio.

The applicant has the opportunity to explain how its strategy will address the community’s most critical issues, how the funds will be used, and what outcomes they expect to achieve as a result of that funding.

While agencies are asked to identify the number of people served, they are also asked to explain what outcome, or change in behavior, skill or knowledge they expect to occur as a result of their program and services.

The current funding process broadens the pool of applicants, which helps ensure that the limited dollars available to distribute are directed towards the most effective strategies. The process also engages community volunteers, as it has in the past, and is designed to be as objective as possible.

Although our region has changed dramatically since 1922, United Way is committed to continue serving the needs of the people through improved focus, practices, and community engagement.

Don Watson, a certified financial planner with the Fyffe Jones Group, is a former board president of the United Way of the River Cities. He can be reached at (304) 525-8592 or dwwatson@fja-cpas.com.