Thanks to a $2,500 County Project Grant from United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA), Senior Connection in Chilton County has expanded both its administrative capacity and daily programming for local seniors. The organization offers health education, fitness classes, care planning, social events and field trips that promote wellness and connection.
Announced on July 29th, the grant funded essential office and kitchen supplies, including two laptops, a mouse, printer ink and GrantStation software. These tools will help Senior Connection identify and apply for additional funding, ensuring continued growth and impact. The organization also purchased a stainless steel dual tea brewer to support social events and gatherings.
“These resources enhance both the administrative capacity and the daily experience of members at Senior Connection,” said Deborah Loftis, Director. “Senior Connection extends its sincere thanks to United Way of Central Alabama for supporting its mission to serve the seniors of Chilton County.”
Local Support for Local Solutions
This grant is part of United Way’s commitment to help answer local needs through County Project Grants in Chilton, St. Clair, Shelby, Walker and Blount counties. These grants support short-term projects or one-time expenses that create lasting value for residents.
Funding decisions are made by local United Way Advisory Boards, comprised of civic and business leaders from each county. Grants must support direct program costs or one-time purchases that benefit the community.
“While all the work that United Way does is driven by volunteers from our community, the County Project Grants are a way for us to really localize the voices of residents in Central Alabama,” said Shakeitha Tatum, UWCA’s Vice President of Agency Relations. “The local boards give us boots on the ground to support programs and organizations that may not need ongoing funding from United Way.”
As an extra benefit, grantees also gain access to free professional development opportunities provided by United Way. This includes training on topics such as financial management and advocacy.
Click here to learn more about United Way’s work in Chilton County.
This blog originally appeared in The Clanton Advertiser’s “UWCA provides grant to Senior Connection for office, kitchen supplies.”