Welcome to GrantTalk! In this insightful episode, Libby Hikind, founder and CEO of GrantWatch and author of The Queen of Grants: From Teacher to Grant Writer to CEO, dives deep into the world of community impact, equity, and collaborative philanthropy with Jessica Safransky-Schacht, COO of United Way of Racine County, Wisconsin. Together, they take an in-depth look at United Way Grants, their incredible local impact, and the organization’s unique grant-making approach. If you’ve ever wondered how global initiatives are tailored to meet hyper-local needs, this conversation is for you.
What’s It All About?
Jessica breaks down the United Way’s dual identity: a globally recognized brand operating with the precision of a local nonprofit. She sheds light on how its programs adapt to the unique challenges of each community, focusing on Racine County’s most pressing needs. From providing United Way grants for grassroots organizations to working hand-in-hand with schools, Jessica highlights how the United Way creates ripple effects of positive change.
Standout Moments from the Episode
- Funding That Fosters Equity
Jessica shares a remarkable story about the Equity Innovation Fund, a $1.9 million investment in 39 grassroots projects. Through intentional pre-application meetings and trust-based philanthropy practices, United Way helped break barriers for smaller organizations often overlooked in traditional funding processes. The result? Not just a more equitable distribution of funds but a strengthened community network. - Real-Life Impact Stories
One particularly touching highlight involves the “SCAN” program—Stop Child Abuse and Neglect—which visits schools across Racine County and teaches children how to stay safe. Hearing how Jessica’s own children have benefited from these lessons makes the program’s value hit home in a personal and profound way. - Leveraging Resources Like GrantWatch.com
Jessica emphasizes the importance of organizations using resources like GrantWatch.com, a comprehensive online database of funding opportunities for nonprofits, small businesses, and other entities. GrantWatch helps organizations discover available grants, saving time and providing valuable insights into funding options. It’s an excellent tool for nonprofits striving to align their mission with the right grants and for individuals inspired to support local causes. - Lessons in Collaboration
Collaboration isn’t just a buzzword for the United Way. Jessica explains how learning from other chapters in their network, continuously improving funding processes, and leveraging tools like GrantWatch enables them to maximize their impact.
Why You Should Tune In
If you’re passionate about creating lasting community change or curious about the behind-the-scenes work of nonprofits, this episode is a must-listen. Jessica’s enthusiasm for bridging gaps between funding, programs, and measurable results is contagious. She provides actionable insights for nonprofits looking to improve their grant applications, especially with tools like GrantWatch.com, and for donors eager to make the most of their contributions.
Key Takeaways
- Impact Beyond Numbers: Metrics matter, but the real magic happens when you connect the data to personal stories.
- The Power of Listening: Meaningful change starts with understanding community needs—not assuming you already know them.
- Leveraging Tools for Success: Platforms like GrantWatch.com can empower organizations to identify funding opportunities and unlock their potential.
Join us for this engaging conversation and discover how we can all play a role in creating stronger, more connected communities. Whether you’re a nonprofit leader, a donor, or someone eager to make a difference, Jessica Safransky’s insights and tools like GrantWatch.com will inspire and motivate you to act.
🎧 Listen Now and be part of the movement for collective impact!
🌎 United Way: A Global Brand with Local Roots
United Way is a global network of over 1,000 organizations, but each branch operates independently as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, responding to the specific needs of its community. Jessica explains, “We’re hyper-local. While part of a recognizable global brand, we operate independently to address Racine County’s pressing needs.”
💵 Highlighted United Way Grants
🌟 Success Stories: Real Impact, Real Change
- Focuses on educating children about safety in schools.
- Highlights the broad, positive impact on the community.
- Focuses on eliminating child abuse and neglect.
- They protect children, prepare parents, strengthen families and educate communities.
- Their mission is to empower students for lifelong success.
- Programs aim at strengthening supportive home environments and families.
🚨 Tips for Grant Success
Jessica offers valuable advice for nonprofits:
- Consistency is Key: Align your program’s activities, budget, and outcomes. Disconnection can hurt evaluation scores.
- Tell Your Story: Include compelling narratives alongside data. “Quantitative data is important, but qualitative stories bring impact to life,” Jessica notes.
- Collaborate: United Way partners with grassroots organizations to provide guidance during the application process, ensuring equitable access to funding.
🤝 GrantWatch: Amplifying Awareness
Jessica highlights the value of GrantWatch, saying, “Awareness is everything. Having a respected platform like GrantWatch helps us reach more people.” At GrantWatch, our mission is to level the playing field, ensuring all nonprofits, businesses, and individuals can access funding opportunities.
💬 Stay Connected with GrantTalk!
Love what you heard? Hit subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, Apple, or iHeartRadio to keep up with inspiring stories from the grant world. Nonprofits and businesses: If you’ve secured a grant through GrantWatch, we’d love to hear your story! Share it on GrantTalk, and we’ll even send you a latte mug ☕ as a thank-you!
Thank you, Jessica, for your insights and dedication to community impact. Until next time, this is GrantTalk, powered by GrantWatch—your ultimate grant resource! 💡
About GrantWatch
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