United Way to hold orientation session

United Way of Kootenai County is holding an orientation Friday for organizations interested in applying for funding from the Community Care Fund in 2010.

Community Care Fund grants are made to nonprofit organizations who improve the lives of people in our community. The orientation will be held from 1:30-4:15 p.m. in the Great Room at St. Pious Catholic Church, and will provide information about the grant process including the letter of intent which will be due March 12.

"The Community Campaign now underway, is the primary source of funding for these grants," said Caryl Johnston, United Way executive director. "Our goal is to create long lasting changes that prevent problems from happening in the first place."

Community Impact Team Leader, Sandi DeAngelo, will conduct a training on how to put a Logic Model together during the orientation.

"A Logic Model is a road map that describes the community need an organization has identified and plans to address, how they intend to solve the need, what resources are needed to accomplish the solution, and how they plan to measure that they are being successful," DeAngelo said. "Most granting organizations require a Logic Model or business plan in order to be considered for funding. By hosting this training, United Way hopes to help local organizations to be competitive for additional corporate and foundation funding."

United Way is also looking for volunteers interested in serving on Impact Review Teams to make decisions about program effectiveness and community needs. Beginning in March volunteers review grant applications, participate in community discussions, visit local non-profits and make funding recommendations.

To RSVP for the orientation, or for more information about funding goals, or how to get involved as a volunteer, contact the United Way office at 667-8112.