Two nonprofits join United Way’s network of accredited organizations
INDIANAPOLIS – United Way of Central Indiana has added two nonprofits – DREAM Alive and Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation – to its network of accredited community organizations.
Accreditation allows nonprofits to apply for all United Way grant funds and access resources, training and support to grow their organizations.
"We are proud to add DREAM Alive and Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation as accredited community partners," said Sara VanSlambrook, United Way's chief impact officer. "These nonprofits make a difference in our communities every day, and we look forward to partnering with them to help our neighbors reach financial stability and economic mobility."
DREAM Alive mentors students living in Center Township Indianapolis from seventh grade through high school, working to increase wealth earning opportunities by helping youth discover career paths.
DREAM Alive partners with over 100 organizations in Indianapolis to provide youth with career development experiences, opportunities, job shadowing and internships.
"We are humbled and grateful to join the United Way family. The opportunity DREAM Alive now has to learn, develop and grow from the support of United Way of Central Indiana will help us to better serve our community together," said Eric Müller, president and CEO of DREAM Alive.
Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation has served the community for 30 years, providing workforce development programs, affordable housing and housing-related services.
Their mission: “to be a catalyst for the sustainable development of the Martindale Brightwood community through housing, employment, community education, economic development and environmental justice.”
United Way opened its accreditation process to new partners in January after analyzing data to identify community needs and gaps in service.
United Way was looking for new partners in priority zip codes in Marion County, with a focus on safe and affordable housing, and adult and youth workforce pathways and development. The nonprofit also was looking for organizations in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Morgan and Putnam counties that align with United Way’s mission.
The accreditation process includes an application, site visit and evaluation by a team of United Way staff, board members and volunteers. They examine a nonprofit’s financial health and governance, among other things.
With the addition of DREAM Alive and Martindale Brightwood Community Development Corporation, United Way has 90 accredited community organizations across its seven-county service area.