United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) needs YOU to help make a difference in your community this fall. Every year UWCA raises funds through their campaign to distribute to their 80+ partner agencies & programs, their clients, and their community. But how is the money divided? With your help. UWCA’s mission is foundationally built on the local community’s best interests and aid. Therefore, it only makes sense for the distribution of funds to also be a community-involved decision.
What is VAT?
VAT stands for Visiting Allocation Team, and it is an opportunity for volunteers to help UWCA make decisions about which community programs will be a good investment of the money raised during the annual campaign. 2022 registration is open until July 31, and UWCA is seeking 500 individuals.
What do VAT members do?
As a VAT member, you’ll be asked to participate in a team meeting and three agency site visits, review agency programs and accomplishments, and provide input for team recommendations, totaling a time commitment of only about 10-12 hours between September and early November. Don’t let being nervous or being new stop you! Each VAT will be led by an experienced volunteer who will guide you through the process. If you are unable to participate in person, ask about the virtual option!
Why should I join?
As longtime VAT volunteer Patsy Dreher says, “When volunteering, you always come away having bettered yourself, and with a better appreciation of the community around you and the needs of others. United Way of Central Alabama has a spirit of community. They don’t just look at one agency; they look at people, various agencies, and the needs of Birmingham as a whole. Volunteering is important because it’s a chance to give of our time to advocate for what we think is important in our city.”
You can sign up at uwca.org/vat or email Stephanie.Butler@uwca.org if you have any questions about the registration process.