Community Investment - Identifying Community Needs

United Way identifies the issues and concerns affecting our community by utilizing a number of strategies and resources. For example:

1. Demographic data: A variety of data sites keep us abreast of demographic trends. For instance, we know that between 2000 and 2006 the percentage of families living in poverty in our community rose from 7% to 13%.

2. Community Surveys: United Way is an active partner in many community level surveys that tell us what is on people’s minds and what they feel are our community’s top issues and concerns.

3. Community Relationships: After fifty years of service, United Way has solidified a rich array of relationships with companies, community service organizations and individuals. As we talk with corporate managers, our partner agencies, and area employees from all walks of life, we listen to our community.

4. Committed Volunteers: Area professionals of the highest caliber invest their time in United Way by serving on our Board and our committees. They provide us with a wealth of skills, knowledge, and the latest information in their areas of expertise.

United Way is uniquely positioned to hear and understand the strengths and challenges facing our community, and what we have heard from Randolph County has directed our focus to three priority areas:

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