CNL Member since 2008
Founded: 1982
Visit Website: uwnc.org
Contact Email: admin@uwnc.org
Facebook: facebook.com
Mission & Purpose:
United Way of Nevada County (UWNC) works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. United Way raises money from multiple sources to help Nevada County residents with their Basic Needs (Food, shelter and access to health care) and constantly analyzes how best to use it to address the largest needs in Nevada County. Once those needs and gaps in services have been identified, the UWNC Community Impact Committee works on the best way to address them.
Success Story:
In keeping with its goal of making impactful change, UWNC continually analyzes the biggest needs of the Nevada County community. One of those needs being access to healthy food. According to the 2018 Real Cost Measure study done by the United Way of California recently, more than one in three California households (33%) do not earn sufficient income to meet basic needs. United Way determined that many community members suffering from food insecurity find it difficult to get to the food distributions offered during the week. Through data, surveys, and community meetings, United Way analyzed this challenge and worked with the local community to fill this gap in services. For several months, United Way collaborated with Interfaith Food Ministry, a United Way partner, to develop a program to support the individuals and families challenged with food insecurity.
Through a collaboration with Interfaith Food Ministry, United Way implemented Food Access Saturday in May 2017. Nearly 4800 bags of food have been distributed to 2175 individuals and families since the program began. Originally, FAS was designed to help working individuals and families in Nevada County who need supplemental groceries. Since its inception, the program has grown to encompass a larger population; welcoming others to the table. Through FAS, any Nevada County resident who needs food can pick up healthy groceries, including fresh produce.
How our organization benefits from being a member of CNL:
CNL workshops have proven to be very beneficial to the board members and Executive Director. Through our participation in CNL, we have also developed stronger professional relationships and achieved more visibility and support from the community.
How to get involved:
Give: Businesses can get involved by starting an Employee Payroll Giving campaign holding a fundraiser for United Way of Nevada County. Individuals can get involved by giving one time or recurring gifts, and/or setting up an endowment.
Advocate: Be an Advocate for the work of the United Way in Nevada County. You can make change happen with your voice. Get informed. Tell your friends. United Way of Nevada County needs people who are passionate about our children, families and health to make some noise!
Volunteer: Businesses and individuals can help through volunteering…it’s good for your health, too! We always need volunteers to help in our office with mailers and other event-related projects. Groups can help out our partner agencies or participate in our annual Day of Action.
Executive Director, Megan Timpany and Board Secretary Joanne Weatherly helping out during Food Access Saturday.