United Way of Southeast Missouri invites public to partner funding presentations
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — United Way of Southeast Missouri is inviting community members to participate in its partner selection process for nonprofit programs seeking funding during the 2026–2028 grant cycle.
The public is invited to attend program presentations at 4 p.m. March 26 at the United Way office, located at 16 N. Spanish St. in Cape Girardeau.
The event will feature presentations from nonprofit programs that have advanced in the application process and are being considered for inclusion in United Way’s next two-year partner network. Because of the number of applicants, only programs new to the organization’s network will present. Information about previously funded partners will be shared through a slide presentation.
Each funding cycle, United Way of Southeast Missouri accepts applications from qualified programs serving at least one county in its service area, which includes Bollinger, Cape Girardeau, Perry and northern Scott counties.
Programs must complete a detailed application and undergo a review process led by community volunteers serving on the Community Investment Committee and the organization’s board of directors. Committee members review and discuss each application before making funding recommendations.
“We are frequently asked how partners are determined,” said Elizabeth Shelton, executive director of United Way of Southeast Missouri. “This year we wanted to open the process to anyone interested in learning more about our investment strategy and the programs that support it.”
Following the presentations, Community Investment Committee volunteers will review the programs and recommend which should become United Way partners for the 2026–2028 funding cycle. The committee will also recommend the percentage of community donations each program should receive.
Due to scheduling around the organization’s Power of the Purse fundraiser on April 23, selected programs are expected to be notified in early May, followed by a public announcement.
United Way of Southeast Missouri invests in programs — rather than entire agencies — that demonstrate strong results and measurable impact. Funded initiatives focus on four areas: youth opportunity, healthy community, community resiliency and financial security.
