Through the experience and expertise of its staff and volunteers, United Way is able to provide information, facilitation, recommendations and referrals about social issues, community services and research and resource development. This help is provided one-to-one with individuals and organizations and through community collaborations.
For example, individuals have received advice on writing grant proposals, companies wanting to make in-kind donations have been matched with receptive organizations and non-profit leaders have been brought together to share best practices.
Some of the collaborations United Way is currently involved in include:
London & Middlesex funders' network
United Way meets regularly with other local and regional funding bodies to share information and develop coordinated responses to local issues. Other participating funders include the London Community Foundation, the Ontario Trillium Foundation, Canadian Heritage Multiculturalism and Aboriginal Programs, as well as municipal, provincial and federal governments. Recent shared initiatives have looked at cultural diversity, outcome evaluation and youth engagement.
Community Data and Research Committee
The Community Data and Research Committee brings local research practitioners together to facilitate the sharing, use, co-ordination and development of current and proposed research activities and resources for the purpose of making connections with key community partners, reducing duplication, exploring opportunities for collaboration, increasing effectiveness and informing the delivery of community services.
START Guide Monitoring Body
Helped to launch by United Way, the START Guide outlines minimum standards to ensure that agencies that provide the initial point of contact to street and vulnerable youth are consistently providing service at the same minimum level and with the same degree of accountability. START stands for Street and vulnerable youth service standards that provide; Trust; Accountability; Responsiveness; To ensure consistent support for youth.
United Way requires that those serving street and vulnerable youth become START Guide members in order to receive funding. United Way is a member of the START Guide Monitoring Body. This group is responsible for working with the community to review the START Guide on a regular basis to ensure the standards are current and appropriate. It also reviews agencies to determine their ongoing compliance with these standards.
For more information, contact Catherine Joyes at 519-438-1723 ext. 224.