The echoes of celebration still linger after an unforgettable afternoon at United Way of Martin County's Big Reveal - the thrilling moment when local agencies discover their funding fate and the amount of support they'll receive. On Friday, June 21, more than 120 attendees gathered at Indian Riverside Park’s Frances Langford Dockside Pavilion for this special event, sponsored by Capstone IT and STS Aviation Group. With much pride and anticipation, 38 community impact grants were awarded to 27 nonprofit agencies totaling $958,800, showcasing how, together, we are shaping a brighter future for every corner of our community.
United Way rallies individuals and organizations to support the Community Impact Fund, which fuels a diverse range of programs that focus on enhancing the education, health and financial stability in Martin County. From child literacy initiatives and mental health services to rent relief programs and senior support services, every investment makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.
This year, five new agency programs will receive grant funding:
- Council on Aging of Martin County’s Senior Services Navigator
- Martin Chamber Foundation’s Career Connect Martin
- Martin County Healthy Start Coalition’s Father & Child Resource Center
- Project LIFT’s Hobe Sound location for Substance Abuse Prevention
- Tykes & Teens’ Therapeutic Services
Contrary to what some may think, funding decisions are not made by United Way staff. Grant applications are reviewed by Citizens Review Panels who attend site visits and make recommendations to staff before being presented to the Fund Distribution Committee for final approval. Nearly 40 donors and volunteers participated in the 2024-2025 Citizens Review Process to assist in ensuring that distribution of grant funding aligns with United Way's goals. The Big Reveal is the grand finale of the Citizens Review volunteer efforts.
"United Way of Martin County is unique because of our commitment to community collaboration and creating lasting change,” said Carol G. Houwaart-Diez, President & CEO of United Way of Martin County. “We bring together diverse groups to tackle the most pressing issues, ensuring that every contribution goes directly towards making a meaningful impact in the lives of residents."
Awarding community impact grants is just one of the ways United Way addresses our community's unmet needs. In addition to these grants, an extra $992,437 has been allocated to support other local non-profit program services through direct designations and funding for the United Way's internal programs, including Leaders United, Students United, Ride United, Volunteer United, United Way Holiday Project, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA).
By mobilizing the community and harnessing the generosity of individuals and businesses, United Way has successfully raised and invested a remarkable $1,951,237 into critical programs that directly benefit Martin County. We commend all grant recipients for their commitment to making a difference and ensuring that every dollar raised goes back into the community.
As United Way of Martin County looks ahead, the focus remains on building partnerships and leveraging resources to address the evolving needs of our community. Through the collaborative efforts of United Way’s annual campaign and support from volunteers, sponsors, partner agencies, corporate partners and community members, we will continue to take steps towards a brighter future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
For a complete list of funded programs, please visit www.unitedwaymartin.org/FundedPrograms. To get involved and make a difference in Martin County through donations of time, money or advocacy, please visit www.unitedwaymartin.org.
About United Way of Martin County
United Way of Martin County’s mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. Since 1972, the United Way has been working to create long-term social change and provide support to Martin County residents by investing in programs that strive to: enhance healthy living, improve education, and support financial stability.