United Way of Portage County is now accepting Youth Education Grant Applications, opening the door for local nonprofit organizations to secure funding for programs that support children and youth across Portage County.
All 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving Portage County with a primary focus on Youth Education are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted by February 13, 2026, and grants awarded through this cycle will fund programs during the July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029 funding period.
The Youth Education Grant Application can be found at https://www.uwportage.org/Youth-Education-CIG-Apply.
United Way of Portage County invests funds raised through its annual campaign using a thorough, volunteer-led review and recommendation process designed to maximize community impact. Grant Review Volunteers carefully assess applications, conduct site visits, and collaborate to identify evidence-based programs that best address local needs. Funded programs are monitored over time to evaluate outcomes and ensure long-term, meaningful results.
All grant recommendations are made by a volunteer review team and approved by United Way of Portage County’s Board of Directors, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible stewardship of donor dollars.
Additional Grant Funding Timelines
Critical Needs Programs: Grants were awarded in 2024 for a funding period of July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027. Applications for the next three-year funding cycle will become available in spring 2027.
Public Health Programs: Grants were awarded in 2025 for a funding period of July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028. Applications for the next cycle will open in spring 2028.
United Way of Portage County values openness and collaboration throughout every stage of the grantmaking process. Organizations with questions about eligibility, the application process, or funding timelines are encouraged to contact Maureen Gebhardt at 330.297.1424 or by email at maureeng@uwportage.org.
About United Way of Portage County
United Way of Portage County’s mission is to unite people with resources to improve the quality of life of families and individuals in Portage County. We envision a Portage County where no resident is without food, no child is without tools to learn, and no one is without access to care.
Our goals are ambitious, but with your help, and by utilizing our core strengths — a national network, Local Board Leadership, committed partners and public engagement capacity — we can achieve them. Visit uwportage.org and facebook.com/uwportage to learn more about our service to the community, how to volunteer or to donate.
