GET FUNDING

WHY PARTNER?


United Way Wayne and Holmes Counties brings people and resources together to help our community meet real needs, especially when and where help is needed most.  We fund local programs, respond to urgent and emerging needs, and fill gaps when other systems fall short.  All decisions are made locally for the people of Holmes and Wayne Counties.

HOW TO BECOME A FUNDED PARTNER?

In part with their mission, United Way has chosen to invest in quality programs in Wayne and Holmes Counties that seek to improve the lives our community members. The four areas of focus that UWWH has carefully considered are; Health/Mental Health/Substance Abuse, Safety Net/Basic Needs, Workforce Development and Youth Development.

Must be a registered 501 (c) 3 registered with the Internal Revenue Service, the Ohio Secretary of State Office and with valid status with the Ohio Attorney General, or a public education institution, voluntary association or faith based organization.

Be located and provide services to residents in Wayne and/or Holmes Counties.  If you ONLY provide services in Orrville, Dalton and/or Marshallville - please apply to Orrville Area United Way.

2026 FUNDING Opportunities

30

January 2026

Mental Health Micro - Grants Application Released

6

March 2026

Mental Health Micro- Grants Due


30

April 2026

Mental Health Micro Grants Award Announcement


2026 FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

2026 Mental Health Micro Grants (Application Below)

FAQ's for 2026 Mental Health Grant

2026 Board Request Application

Mental Health Micro-Grant Application 2026

United Way Wayne and Holmes will be offering micro-grants (up to $7,500) this spring to address mental health issues. This was identified in a recent community survey about the biggest needs right now. 


Please answer the questions clearly. Avoid jargon and fluff. 


If you have any questions, please email info@uwwh.org.

1. You cannot save your work, so please print this out so you know how long it will take you to complete.

2. You must submit your most recent form 990. Please compress your PDF attachment, if possible.

3. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.


Deadline to apply is Friday, March 6, 2026 at 5:00pm EST.

Mental Health Micro-Grant Application 2026

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION

Contact Us

Volunteer Investment Team

The Volunteer Investment Team: One of the most important aspects of what we do at United Way of Wayne and Holmes Counties. This committee ensures that United Way funds are allocated and invested in a manner consistent with United Way’s mission of mobilizing community resources to measurably improve the lives of those living in the communities we serve. These volunteers are donors and have a vested interest in the programs that United Way supports. They invest many hours reviewing the applications submitted for grant funding to United Way.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR VOLUNTEER INVESTMENT TEAM

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

General Questions about funding from United Way Wayne and Holmes

  • Does my organization need to be located in Holmes or Wayne Counties?

    Yes. Since we are a local United Way, we only fund organizations that are located in Holmes or Wayne Counties and who serve the citizens of either or both counties. If you only serve people in Orrville, Dalton or Marshallville you must apply for funding from Orrville Area United Way.

  • What can United Way funds be used for?

    We strive to make our funding flexible to help you fulfill your mission, so the items that we will fund include the following: Certifications/Trainings (Registration Fees only for Professional Development) Client Evaluations/Assessments Direct Client Services (Shelter, Rent, Utilities, Clothing, Food..etc.) Meals/Snacks/Food Pantry Program Specific Supplies (these will need to itemized in the budget) Salary/Benefits/Payroll Taxes (the cost to hire) Scholarships (by reimbursement only) Support Groups Other - as defined by you. Approval or clarification may be needed.

  • What will United Way of Wayne and Holmes funds not cover?


    There are some items that we will not cover in a funding request. Our funds will not cover the following items: Capital Expenses/Capital Campaigns Equipment Insurance Consultant Fees (audits, IT, attorney, etc.) Software/Hardware Fundraising Events or Expenses Membership Fees, Dues, Subscriptions Hotels, Meals or Fringe Expenses for Professional Development

  • Is multi-year funding available?

    Not at this time.

  • Do you have set grant amounts?

    No.  You can ask for any amount needed.

  • What if I have questions about my proposal?

    All questions must be submitted in writing (email) to info@uwwh.org we will schedule phone calls if it is necessary. 

  • What is the ideal percentage of a budget will United Way cover?

    There is no specific percent that UWWH has set. It is on a case by case basis. Our Volunteer Investment Team likes to have this information for review.