2024 Community Grants Awards Press Release

United Way of Eagle River Valley Awards $228,000 in Grants to Support Eagle County Nonprofits and Strengthen Community Resilience

 

Eagle County, CO – November 29, 2024 – United Way of Eagle River Valley (UWERV) is thrilled to announce $228,000 in grant funding to 12 local nonprofits, helping families overcome the growing challenges of daily life in Eagle County. These grants will strengthen programs that provide essential services to empower our neighbors and create a stronger community.

 

“This funding represents so much more than dollars; it represents hope and opportunity,” said Sara Amberg, Board Chair of UWERV. “Every program we’re supporting this year is a step toward making life a little easier for families across Eagle County.”

 

The 2024 grants align with Eagle County Public Health and Environment’s 2024-2028 Public Health Improvement Plan, specifically addressing the rising cost of living. Areas of focus include housing and food security, access to childcare, transportation solutions, financial stability, and more. The grants highlight a commitment to serving the entirety of Eagle County, ensuring that both the Eagle River Valley and the Roaring Fork Valley communities of El Jebel and Basalt receive vital resources and support.

 

“Families in Eagle County face significant economic challenges that can make it difficult to lead healthy, stable lives,” said Heath Harmon, Director of Eagle County Public Health and Environment. “The United Way of Eagle River Valley and our local nonprofits are not just providing support—they’re building a foundation for opportunity and resilience. These grants show what we can achieve when we come together as a community to create meaningful, lasting solutions.”

 

Among the 12 funded programs are A Way Out, Mountain Dreamers, and The Savings Collaborative.

 

• A Way Out provides substance use treatment services and critical recovery support to individuals across the region. The organization works to reduce barriers like stigma and financial constraints that often prevent access to care.
• Mountain Dreamers empowers immigrant families by providing legal assistance, advocacy, and educational workshops. Their efforts help families navigate complex challenges, ensuring greater stability and access to opportunities in the community.
• The Savings Collaborative focuses on building financial security by providing coaching, education, and credit tools to help families manage their finances. “With this support, we can reach more families and equip them with the resources they need to thrive in a challenging economy,” said Barbara Freeman, CEO of The Savings Collaborative.

 

The 2024 grant cycle reflects United Way’s commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation. In addition to direct grants, UWERV worked to connect organizations with complementary missions, creating opportunities for partnerships that amplify impact. By supporting both individual programs and strategic collaborations, these funds will extend resources and opportunities to even more families across Eagle County.

 

“This is what it means to live united,” added Amberg. “Together, we’re creating a brighter future for everyone in Eagle County.”

 

For more information about the Eagle County Public Health Improvement Plan, visit Eagle County Public Health Improvement Plan.

 

For additional details on United Way of Eagle River Valley and its initiatives, plus the complete list of 2024 grant recipients, visit www.unitedwayeagle.org.

 

About United Way of Eagle River Valley

United Way of Eagle River Valley strengthens our community by supporting local nonprofits that address critical needs in education, health, and financial stability. Through strategic grantmaking, donor contributions, and community partnerships, UWERV empowers individuals and families to thrive.