United Way of Berks County announces grant opportunity

United Way of Berks County is looking to invest in local nonprofits providing social services.

The organization has announced it will soon begin accepting applications for Live United grants designed to support collaborative programs working to find innovative solutions to challenges impacting Berks County communities.

Nonprofits that have an annual operating budget of less than $250,000 are encouraged to apply for the one-time grants that are not to exceed $5,000.

The groups must submit a proposal for a program that will bring people together to help improve the quality of life for residents.

Proposals must address one issue within the four initiatives identified by United Way of Berks County and members of the community as necessary in creating a thriving community for people to live, work and raise their families:

Education: Helping young people reach their potential

• Early care and school readiness

• Literacy

• School success

• Youth development

• Education case management

Financial stability: Promoting independence

• Affordable housing

• Employment

• Personal financial management

• Financial stability case management

Health: Improving people’s health

• Mental health

• Health and wellness

• Independent living

• Health case management

Safety net services: Helping vulnerable populations

• Basic needs

• Safety net case management

Christine Spanier, vice president of communications for United Way of Berks County, said grant proposals will be awarded through a competitive process after review by a panel of community volunteers with final approval from the organization’s board of directors.

Beginning Wednesday, nonprofits can submit applications online through the United Way of Berks County website. The deadline to apply for a grant is Aug. 26.

Applicants can review the full details regarding grant eligibility requirements, as well as the application format, at uwberks.org.