ANN ARBOR — United Way for Southeastern Michigan has announced the opening of two significant grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations based in Washtenaw County: the 2024 Responsive Basic Needs Grant and the 2024 Racial Equity Fund Grant. These grants aim to support and empower community-focused initiatives addressing vital needs and foster racial equity in the region.
“At United Way for Southeastern Michigan, we believe in the power of unity to create lasting change. Following our merger in October of 2023, we are proud to continue our commitment to Washtenaw County families and organizations. With the launch of these grants, we are not just funding projects; we are investing in the heartbeat of our communities,” says Tonya Adair, Chief Development, Diversity & Engagement Officer at United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “We aim to support the incredible efforts of nonprofits that align with our vision of a more equitable, inclusive, and thriving Washtenaw County. Together, we can address immediate needs and lay the groundwork for systemic change, ensuring every individual can become stable and have opportunities to thrive.”
2024 Washtenaw County Responsive Basic Needs Grant – This competitive grant program targets 501(c)(3) nonprofits based in Washtenaw County with proven programs in emergency food, services for individuals who are unhoused, and benefit navigation support, including Medicaid enrollment. Funding amounts range from $15,000 to $40,000 for a six-month period. Eligible organizations, including current and prospective United Way partners, are encouraged to apply. The application period opens on January 3; the deadline for submission is 5 p.m. on January 18.
2024 Washtenaw County Racial Equity Fund Grant – Dedicated to supporting BIPOC-led organizations, the Racial Equity Fund offers unrestricted operational grants and technical assistance. This initiative aims to eliminate racial disparities and promote equitable communities in Southeastern Michigan. By prioritizing the experiences of those affected by systemic oppression, the fund seeks to foster authentic inclusion and equitable access to resources. This year, $200,000 is available for grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. Organizations serving and based in Washtenaw County with BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) executive leadership are eligible. The application period is identical to the Basic Needs Grant, with applications due by 5 p.m. on January 18.
United Way for Southeastern Michigan has served the region for more than 100 years. Their mission is to mobilize the caring power of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan to improve communities and individual lives in measurable and lasting ways. They work with hundreds of partners and thousands of donors, advocates, and volunteers to advance equitable communities where households are stable, and children thrive. They also actively work to ensure equity in communities.
Eligible organizations in Washtenaw County are encouraged to apply and join United Way in its mission to create lasting, positive change.
For further details, including eligibility criteria, funding priorities, and application instructions, please visit United Way’s grant information page here.
For inquiries regarding the Basic Needs Grant, contact Emily Mueller, Basic Needs Director, at SafetyNet@UnitedWaySEM.org. For assistance with SurveyMonkey Apply, email SMA@UnitedWaySEM.org.
About United Way for Southeastern Michigan
United Way for Southeastern Michigan, a member of the United Way Worldwide network and an independently governed 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, works to help households become stable and ensure children have the support they need to thrive. For more than 100 years, United Way has been a leader in creating positive, measurable, and sustainable change in communities throughout southeast Michigan. United Way works in partnership with donors, agencies, corporate and municipal partners to help families meet their basic needs of housing, food, health care and family finances, and ensure children start school ready to learn and graduate ready for life. To give, advocate, volunteer or learn more, visit UnitedWaySEM.org.
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