United Way of Perry County Grant

The 2026 United Way of Perry County Grant offers funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored entities that are based in or serve the Perry County, Indiana community. Administered by United Way of Perry County, this annual grant cycle is designed to reinvest community-donated funds into programs and projects that align with four central pillars: Youth Opportunity, Financial Security, Healthy Communities, and Community Resiliency. The United Way of Perry County is a private, nonprofit organization focused on improving the quality of life for Perry County residents through strategic grantmaking and community support initiatives. Applications for the 2026 grant cycle will be accepted from February 2, 2026, through February 27, 2026. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving the Perry County community, and those not currently registered as 501(c)(3) organizations may apply using a fiscal sponsor. Strong preference is given to programs that demonstrate partnerships and collaborative models. The United Way encourages funding proposals that directly address one or more of the four strategic pillars. For example, Youth Opportunity supports initiatives around early education, literacy, and school readiness; Financial Security backs programs offering job training and crisis assistance; Healthy Communities include access to health services and mental wellness; while Community Resiliency addresses core human needs like housing, food, and public safety. The grant does not prescribe a fixed award amount. Instead, applicants are instructed to request the amount they genuinely need to operate their proposed project. Salaries, capital campaigns, religious or political programming, and unrelated operational costs are ineligible expenses. Applicants are also reminded that reimbursements for prior purchases will not be considered, and applications must be complete to be reviewed. Required documentation includes a current IRS determination letter, a list of board members, and a proposed budget. All grant applications must be submitted online via the United Way of Perry County website. Following the submission window, applicants will be invited to participate in virtual grant presentations scheduled between March 12 and 13, 2026. Notification of award decisions will occur between March 19 and 21, and successful applicants must return signed contracts by March 27 to receive funding. A celebratory event is planned for early April, where awardees must be present to receive their check. Additionally, a 12-month progress report will be required from recipients to ensure accountability and evaluate impact. The grant application does not require a pre-application, such as a letter of intent. However, inquiries about eligibility, particularly for those using fiscal sponsors, are encouraged and may be directed to Executive Director Lacy Dutschke via email at unitedwayperry@gmail.com or by phone at (812) 547-2577. The entire application and review process is overseen by the Executive Director and a local board of directors. This grant is non-recurring but occurs annually, and therefore is categorized as a recurring funding opportunity. The next expected cycle would open again in February 2027. While there are no predefined funding tiers, United Way’s request-based model allows organizations of varying sizes and needs to apply. Programs previously supported by this fund include Perry County 4-H, Anderson Woods Summer Camp, and local food banks, reflecting the wide reach and community responsiveness of the initiative.

Apply only for what you need. Partnerships are highly preferred.