For those who are seeking professional development opportunities, curious about how donations are spent or interested in learning about the incredible services being provided in our community, joining United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Visiting Allocation Team (VAT) is a great place to start. Each year, VAT members review funding proposals from a variety of area nonprofits and help decide where United Way dollars can do the most good. Over the course of several weeks, volunteers commit 10 to 12 hours visiting agencies, meeting with staff and clients and learning how programs operate, plans for the future and specific needs. The experience offers a clearer view of the critical work happening across our region and a meaningful reminder of what it means to give back.
Gaining Valuable Knowledge and Experience to Carry Forward
UWCA currently has 79 partner agencies throughout our six-county service area. Each VAT team visits and reviews two to three of those organizations. And every team is led by a VAT Chair such as Jasmine Wright, who started out looking for professional development opportunities in people management. “I am now in a leadership role, and I attribute part of that to the experience I gained through the VAT process,” said Wright.
The agency application review process begins in August and includes analyzing program results and outcomes as well as site visits where volunteers can review their questions directly with agency representatives. Findings are shared in a September meeting before recommended agencies move forward through a multi-step approval process to receive UWCA funding.
Getting a Look Behind the Curtain
The VAT process also gives volunteers the opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at how United Way partner agencies work to provide vital community services. “I’ve been a recipient of United Way partner agency services,” said Wright, “and being able to see others receive these services fills me with joy.” VAT members typically come away from the experience with a deep appreciation for the help that so many people from all walks of life receive from our funded partners.
What Past VAT Volunteers Are Saying
Making Informed, Strategic Decisions About Funding
VAT volunteers are a valuable part of ensuring accountability and transparency with how and where donor dollars are spent. VAT Chair Ayla Russell’s involvement with United Way began early in her career when her employer encouraged her to give. “What I’ve learned through this process is that it takes all of us, whether we have just a few dollars or a few hundred to give, to build and help our community,” said Russell. VAT teams help United Way of Central Alabama make thoughtful and informed strategic funding decisions, shaping programs that touch thousands of lives. Gaining deeper insight into regional needs and solutions, VAT volunteers are a vital part of ensuring that United Way funds are directed where they are needed most and can have the greatest impact.