At Potomac Highlands United Way, we regularly reflect on our history and impact. For nearly 70 years, we have proudly served the Potomac Highlands region, investing donor and volunteer support to strengthen lives and improve community well-being. The collective impact of this work—made possible through our valued community partners—is immeasurable and most admirable.
To ensure we continue maximizing donor impact and volunteer time, we are refining how we respond to our community’s most pressing needs. This year’s funding will prioritize organizations that address the unmet needs of the Asset Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed (ALICE) population. We are particularly interested in projects serving children and youth, as well as emergency needs traditionally supported through Live United grants.
Funding Overview
Funding will support one pilot project serving the full Potomac Highland United Way service area:
- One (1) or two (2) awards may be made, depending on the application response
- Total funding available: $30,000
- Final award amounts will depend on available funding and application quality
Funding Priorities
- Food insecurity
- Housing and utilities
- Childcare and transportation
- Emergency needs
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Serve at least two of the four Potomac Highlands counties:
- Allegany
- Garrett
- Hampshire
- Mineral
- Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in good financial standing and operating locally for at least one year
- Organizations not meeting these criteria may apply using an eligible fiscal agent
- Be governed by an autonomous Board of Directors
- Comply with all applicable local, state, and federal credentialing, accreditation, and licensing requirements
- Maintain written non-discrimination, conflict of interest, and whistleblower policies covering:
- Service provision
- Board, volunteer, and committee selection
- Employment practices
- Consent to financial disclosure upon request
- Demonstrate a clear focus on serving ALICE families
Key Dates
- RFP opens: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
- Applications due: Friday, April 15, 2026, by 4:30 p.m.
- Award notifications: July 1, 2026
Submission & Assistance
For assistance, contact Misty Deal at misty@cuw.org.
Completed applications and required attachments must be emailed to Rhonda Schwinabart, Chair of the Community Investment Committee, at rschwinabart@umces.edu, with a copy to misty@cuw.org, no later than Friday, April 15, 2026, at 4:30 PM.
***This RFP is for FY27 ONLY and does not indicate the nature by which future funding may be disbursed. Please disregard any and all RFPs from prior Impact Grant processes. ***
