Love Greene County? Then consider volunteering with United Way’s Community Impact Grant Committee. Every March, various committee members meet to discuss local nonprofit project proposals. Any community member is welcome to join the committee and participate in the review process.

“We’re always looking for more community members to be a part of this committee,” United Way’s Executive Director Machal Forbes said in an interview. “[It] always lights a fire inside of you about how you can help your community and how other people are helping Greene County. It gives you an in-depth look at the programs that are being provided currently.”

Forbes explained that there are no requirements needed to join the committee. The committee will consist of both United Way board members, as well as community volunteers. Forbes welcomed all ages to join, even high schoolers. Past volunteers have typically been over the age of 18, but Forbes is open to working with any 16- or 17-year-olds that may be interested.

“They just have a different view of the community at that age. I feel like all ages are welcome, I feel all people of all walks of life are welcome,” Forbes said.

The committee’s first meeting will be held on Tuesday March 8 at 5 p.m. 

According to the United Way’s website, committee members are expected to “review grant applications, engage in an interview process, and assist with the distribution of $40,000 to local programs and services within our community.”

Forbes did note the time commitment members will face. Members meet several times throughout the month of March: once prior to interviews, during the interview process and then after to discuss the proposals and finalize the awards.

“We have been doing this for many years, our allocations, and we’re always really proud that we’re able to give out as much money as we do,” Forbes said. “It’s just not the United Way that does this; we may kind of have the oversight and pull together the people to learn about the programs and decide who gets funding, but it’s really the community and the donors that support us that make it happen.” 

Currently, the United Way works with 18 nonprofits. For the grant this year, United Way will be awarding $40,000 to human service nonprofits. Any nonprofit is encouraged to apply; contact Forbes or visit the United Way website at www.greenecountyunitedway.org for more information.

“It is really so interesting to be able to read all about these programs and really see what these nonprofits are excited about, and how they’re helping our community,” Forbes said. “It’s a very eye-opening experience and it helps you get excited about the things that they are doing as well.”