United Way of Lake County Seeks Letters of Intent (LOI’s) for Two-Year Open Funding Cycle

United Way of Lake County Seeks Letters of Intent (LOI’s) for Two-Year Open Funding Cycle

 

Mentor, OH (October 14, 2026) – United Way of Lake County (UWLC) is now accepting Letters of Intent (LOI) from nonprofit organizations seeking funding through its two-year open funding cycle for the organization’s 2027-2028 and 2028-2029 fiscal years.

Nonprofits with programs currently funded by UWLC do not need to submit an LOI, unless it is for a new program. All others with programs that align with the organization’s focus areas are invited to submit an LOI.

Nonprofit programs that align with UWLC’s mission of measurably improving the quality of people’s lives in Lake County and specifically address one or more of the following impact areas are of interest to UWLC:

  1. Youth Opportunities: Programs that support academic success and lifelong learning, focusing on early childhood education, literacy, and school readiness.
  2. Financial Stability: Initiatives that promote financial empowerment, stability, and independence, including workforce development, job training, and access to affordable housing.
  3. Healthy Community: Projects that improve access to healthcare, mental health services, and wellness programs, contributing to the overall health and well-being of Lake County residents.
  4. Community Resiliency: A resilient community is one that can anticipate, withstand, adapt to, and recover from crisis — and emerge stronger than it was before. United Way helps communities build resilience through the 211 helpline, disaster preparedness and response, and long-term recovery support.

Two years ago, UWLC transitioned from their traditional closed funding model to an open approach that covered their 2025-2026 funding cycles.

“We remain committed to investing in those programs that measurably improve lives in Lake County.  Our open-funding model allows us to continue supporting valuable community partnerships while identifying additional opportunities to address unmet and emerging needs,” said UWLC President and CEO Dione DeMitro.

Programs are selected through a volunteer-led award process.

Applicants must meet the following minimum guidelines to pursue funding:
 

  • Letter of 501c3 designation from the IRS
  • Physical location in Lake County, Ohio
  • Audited or reviewed financial statement, completed within the last 3 years
  • Strategic Plan (or equivalent document) completed within the last 5 years

UWLC does not fund:

  • Private/For Profit Companies
  • Individuals
  • Capital projects
  • Endowment campaigns, annual appeals, or membership drives
  • Religious organizations for religious purposes
  • Travel for individuals or groups when travel is the proposal’s primary focus
  • Community services such as police and fire protection, road repair, or snow removal
  • Publications, audiovisual projects or video productions. However, consideration may be given when they fall within a promising project.

A completed LOI does not guarantee invitation to apply for funding but is required for all nonprofits seeking funding for a new program that has not been funded by UWLC in the last five years. 

Following the review of LOI’s, selected organizations will be invited to submit a full proposal for further consideration. UWLC remains committed to funding impactful programs that demonstrate a clear alignment with their focus areas and a measurable impact on our community.

LOI’s must be submitted by the closing date of January 8, 2027. LOI guidelines and submission details can be found at uwlc.org/grants.

Questions should be directed to David Whittaker via email at dwhittaker@uwlc.org or by calling 440.639.1203.