United Way of Front Royal-Warren County is now United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley!
As of October 1, 2022, United Way FRWC has merged with United Way NSV. The driving force behind this decision to combine the resources of UWFRWC with those of UWNSV was a commitment to meaningfully serve the families in and the community of Warren County. United Way NSV is particularly thrilled to bring their flagship program, Valley Assistance Network, to FRWC and to expand their Impact Grants program throughout a more robust portion of the Northern Shenandoah Valley.
As part of the merger, three members from the UWFRWC Board will join the UWNSV Board of Directors, to help ensure the unique concerns and consideration of Front Royal/Warren County are represented alongside those of the other NSV service areas of Clarke County, Frederick County, Page County, Shenandoah County, and the City of Winchester. Current United Way FRWC endowments will continue to be earmarked for exclusive use in Front Royal/Warren County. Lastly, United Way NSV is committed to keeping a physical presence in FRWC and has hired as local Program Manager, Lori Howard. Since 2021, Lori has been extremely active in the local community’s nonprofit sector and will continue to represent United Way Northern Shenandoah Valley from the offices at 134-B Peyton Street.
Most significantly, United Way NSV will be bringing all of their infrastructure, financial resources, and human support directly to the community of Front Royal/Warren County! Both organizations see this merger as wonderful news for Front Royal/Warren County and everyone in both organizations is fully committed to growing the positive impact of United Way in the area. United Way NSV is particularly grateful for the support given by United Way FRWC and the local community as they forge this new path forward.
“All of us at United Way NSV are thrilled to now be serving Front Royal/Warren County. We are excited to bring our flagship program, the Valley Assistance Network, to the area and to be able to meaningfully support those in need, “said Kaycee Childress, President and CEO of United Way NSV. “Likewise, we are excited to open up our Impact Grants program to nonprofits in Front Royal/Warren County and support the incredible work that they are doing. We look forward to great things happening!”
Frequently Asked Questions
Will there be a new entity?
No, as of October 1st, 2022, the United Way of Front Royal-Warren County (UWFRWC) will officially dissolve and United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley (UWNSV) will assume the geographic region of Warren County as an addition to their current territory of Clarke County, Frederick County, Page County, Shenandoah County, and the City of Winchester.
How was this decision made?
UWFRWC and UWNSV have worked closely to come to a decision that benefits all. Recognizing the benefit to the community, UWFRWC started the discussion with UWNSV about the possibilities of merging into a larger, well established United Way, with staff and volunteer resources that could support growing community needs. Ultimately, board members for both organizations made the unanimous decision. It has also been endorsed by United Way Worldwide.
Will there still be a local board of directors for UWFRWC?
No, 3 board members from UWFRWC will join the 24 members UWNSV Board of Directors to ensure Warren County needs and talents are represented and served through UWNSV.
How will this effect my donations or the Annual Campaign?
The merger will enable United Way of Northern Shenandoah Valley to serve donors in an even more efficient manner. Given the full-time staffing support already in place at UWNSV, we expect to be able to expand the campaign in Warren County to better serve a growing number of needs across the Northern Shenandoah Valley. Campaign pledge cards and materials will now come from UWNSV. Donors will have the opportunity to designate their support for our Impact Grant program, the Valley Assistance Network program, the focus areas of Health, Education, and Financials Stability, or designate directly to the 501(c)3 charity of their choice.
Will this effect the distribution of funds?
Yes, Warren County 510(c)3 organizations are now eligible to receive funds directly through the UWNSV Community Impact Grants program! Grant funds are aimed at new or high need programs inside our focus areas of Health, Education, and Financial Stability. This distribution of funds follows a thorough, well-established system to ensure the highest ethical standards. Program grant reviews are undertaken annually by the Fund Distribution Committee, representing the contributing public and help to ensure donated funds are well spent.
More information can be found on our website: http://www.unitedwaynsv.org/community-impact-grants. Please contact UWNSV if you would like to volunteer as part of the Fund Distribution Committee!
Will money raised continue to be used locally?
Yes, the intent of the donor is first and foremost. All money raised by UWNSV stays in the Northern Shenandoah Valley, unless designated to another recognized United Way. While no single dollar can be guaranteed to stay in the county it's given from, UWNSV will use the full scope of our resources to equitably support all programs and families across the Valley.
What are the primary merger concerns?
Residents of Warren County can rest assured that their voices, needs, and preferences are extremely important to everyone at UWNSV and we are committed to providing the very best service possible. UWNSV will continue working to address the varying needs of diverse communities across the Valley and most effectively addressing the common needs of all communities. We anticipate Warren County will be greatly and positively impacted by this merger.
How do I get more information?
Your voice is important to us! Please email you questions, comments, concerns to UWNSV Director of Advancement, Jenna DeHaven, jdehaven@unitedwaynsv.org.
How can I get involved?
Local involvement is key to the success of any organization. We serve the community AND we are made up of the community. Your participation makes an immeasurable difference. Please consider: