In 2003, United Way of the Capital Region began a three-year transition from an annual fundraiser to an organization with a measurable impact in the community. United Way created Focused Care Councils in 2004 to address five areas of critical need in our community: children and youth, families and seniors, disease and disabilities, emergency food and shelter, and strong and safe communities.
In 2006, United Way of the Capital Region conducted a comprehensive survey of housing in Perry County, which showed a significant lack of affordable housing in this area. As a result of this study, the Perry County Housing Partnership Board was formed, and received its non-profit status with the help of United Way.
In 2007, United Way completed the Capital Region’s first comprehensive study of the needs and assets of the Latino community. Study responders cited several problems to include lack of formal information sharing, no one organization to fully unify the Latino community, and the need for educational opportunities for youth and improved employment and training programs. To help find solutions to the issues, United Way of the Capital Region distributed grants for services to the Latino community.
During much of 2008 and 2009 the challenges of a tough economy hit the Capital Region. United Way of the Capital Region program partners reported a substantial increase in demand for services. To help the community, United Way launched a Basic Needs Fund campaign and raised more than $60,000 for program partners struggling to provide basic necessities to those in need. Despite the challenging economy, United Way of the Capital Region reached a milestone in 2008 by raising more than $10 million to help the community.