United Way of Reno County invests $900,000 in local programs
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — United Way of Reno County announced plans to invest $900,000 in 38 local programs this year, representing a $50,000 increase from previous funding and directly impacting more than 19,000 county residents.
The investment reinforces the organization's commitment to addressing community challenges across four key areas: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security and Community Resiliency.
"This is what it looks like when a community shows up with heart, purpose, and commitment," said Lacey Mills, United Way of Reno County CEO.
The largest funding allocation, $341,742, will support 10 Youth Opportunity programs reaching 3,357 young people. These initiatives focus on early childhood development, mentorship, leadership opportunities and educational programs designed to help children succeed academically while avoiding risky behaviors.
Healthy Communities programs will receive $198,359 distributed among 14 programs serving an estimated 11,095 people. This funding addresses mental health training, suicide prevention, disability support and water safety education as preventive measures to build community resilience.
Financial Security initiatives targeting working families will receive $123,344 across eight programs serving approximately 2,220 individuals and families. These services include emergency financial assistance, tax preparation support and housing stability programs.
Mills noted many recipients fall into the ALICE category — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — describing families who earn too much to qualify for traditional assistance but insufficient income to meet basic needs.
"Our goal is to help build stronger safety nets and real pathways to long-term stability," Mills said.
Community Resiliency programs will receive $236,555 for five programs impacting approximately 2,675 individuals directly and many more indirectly. This funding supports emergency shelters, victim advocacy, crisis response and volunteer engagement efforts.
The allocation process involved more than 30 volunteers who reviewed program applications, studied budgets and outcome data, conducted partner interviews and made funding decisions across the four impact areas.
United Way of Reno County serves communities throughout the county, addressing local needs through strategic investments in nonprofit programs and services.
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