United Way’s Collective Impact: Together We Can Spark Change

Nov 1, 2024

In this episode of the Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Andy Gail, CEO of United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV), and Kim Wilt, Director of Impact and Advancement at UWNSV. They discuss various aspects of their roles, the goals of the United Way, and the impact of their community programs.

Andy shares his journey to becoming the CEO and outlines the mission and vision of UWNSV, emphasizing the importance of collective impact and community engagement. He talks about the organization's history, its focus areas—education, financial stability, shelter, and food—and how they aim to pivot to help other nonprofits improve their ability to serve their missions.

Kim talks about her background in affordable housing and her excitement about joining UWNSV. She details her role in raising funds and innovating the impact grants to better serve the nonprofit community. Kim emphasizes the importance of capacity building and community brainstorming to develop innovative solutions.

They both discuss the annual campaign, explaining how it works and its significance. The campaign is a major fundraiser, with various ways for individuals and businesses to contribute, including workplace giving and unique fundraising events.

Andy and Kim highlight the value of small donations and the collective impact model. They also encourage community members to participate in impact grant panels to better understand nonprofit operations and contribute to the funding decisions.

The episode emphasizes transparency, community involvement, and the shared goal of enhancing nonprofit capacities and resources across the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Andy and Kim conclude with a call to action for listeners to engage with UWNSV, whether through donations, volunteering, or supporting the campaign. Get started here: https://www.unitedwaynsv.org/campaign