United Way of the Ohio Valley awarded $185,000 in Impact Funding to nonprofit organizations serving Daviess, Ohio, and Union counties during its 2026 Impact Awards celebration this week.
The program was held on Tuesday in conjunction with National 211 Day. The annual awards support programs focused on three priority areas identified by United Way of the Ohio Valley: affordable housing, prevention and intervention of homelessness, and financial mobility.
United Way leaders said growing housing costs and persistent poverty across the region have increased demand for shelter services and long-term stability programs, leading to longer waitlists and added strain on local resources.
“These investments represent more than dollars awarded,” said Vikki Embry, director of community impact and investment. “They represent hope, stability, and opportunity for individuals and families across our region. Through donor generosity and a volunteer-driven review process, we are able to invest in solutions that strengthen our community.”
The following organizations received 2026 Impact Funding:
- Crossroads Women’s Shelter — $6,000
- Daniel Pitino Shelter — $28,400
- Fresh Start for Women — $25,000
- Green River Asset Building Coalition — $7,200
- Habitat for Humanity — $25,000
- Help Office of Ohio County — $20,000
- Owensboro Regional Recovery — $30,000
- St. Benedict’s Shelter — $28,400
- Union County Wee Can — $15,000
Funding recommendations are made by United Way’s Community Investment volunteers, who review grant applications, financial statements, program outcomes, and impact data to ensure donor dollars are used transparently and effectively.
The awards ceremony was intentionally held on National 211 Day to highlight the connection between long-term community investment and immediate crisis response. United Way 211 is a free, confidential, 24/7 service that connects residents to housing assistance, food resources, health care, utility support, mental health services, and other essential needs.
“While Impact Funding strengthens systems and programs,” Embry said, “211 ensures that when someone doesn’t know where to turn in a moment of crisis, there is one number that does.”
The Impact Awards represent one of two annual grant cycles administered by United Way of the Ohio Valley. In 2025, the organization invested $805,497 across six counties, supporting 68 nonprofit programs and initiatives.
More information about Impact Funding and United Way of the Ohio Valley is available at uwov.org.
