For more information, contact:
Michael Burton
Office 251-421-5660
mburton@voase.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Key Partners Highlight Collaborative Efforts to Strengthen Community Support
Mobile, AL – On Friday, June 14th, VOA Southeast had the honor of hosting Kimberly Bell from United Way of Southwest Alabama (UWSWA) at our corporate office. Kimberly shared insights into the profound impact of UWSWA’s annual giving campaign on our local community. She was joined by Valarie McKinley from Home of Grace for Women, a UWSWA partner agency, who shared her firsthand experiences with the campaign’s benefits.
This year marks a significant milestone for UWSWA as they welcome 50 new agency partners for the 2024-2026 cycle. For the first time in nearly a decade, UWSWA opened its partnership application process to local health and human service nonprofits in Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile, and Washington counties. This initiative aligns with UWSWA’s community impact model, focusing on youth opportunities, community resiliency, healthy communities, and financial security. Moving forward, an open partnership process will be held every two years, allowing agencies to reapply or apply for partnership for the first time.
“Our commitment to building more resilient communities is our top priority,” explained Justine Bixler, President & CEO of UWSWA. “We owe it to our community, donors, and partners to ensure the highest level of accountability and efficiency in serving the residents of Southwest Alabama. Our newest slate of partners represents the highest standards of nonprofit service and excellence.”
During the luncheon, VOA Southeast employees learned about critical initiatives in education, health, and financial stability. UWSWA collaborates with local health and human service organizations, including VOA Southeast, across the region to tackle key community issues. These partnerships create sustainable solutions that foster lasting positive change. As a proud partner agency of UWSWA, VOA Southeast is dedicated to supporting these initiatives.
“We are deeply committed to supporting the communities where we live and work,” said Rob Rogers, President and CEO of VOA Southeast. “United Way’s work is crucial, and our partnership ensures that every dollar donated stays within our community, addressing our most pressing needs.”
The newly approved UWSWA partners will have the opportunity to receive designated donations from corporations and individuals and participate in the annual allocations process. This funding is awarded to local nonprofits through United Way’s workplace giving campaigns with over 400 local businesses, educational institutions, hospitals, and municipalities.
VOA Southeast encourages employees to participate in the giving campaign, which runs through July 24. Donations can be made conveniently online using the following link or by contacting Michael Burton at mburton@voase.org. The collaborative efforts of UWSWA and its partners highlight a collective commitment to enhancing the quality of life in our communities.
About VOA Southeast
VOA Southeast is a nonprofit, faith-based organization dedicated to helping those in need live healthy, safe and productive lives. Our ministry of service has supported and empowered America’s most vulnerable groups, including veterans, seniors, people with disabilities, at-risk youth, homeless individuals and families, those recovering from addictions and many others. Through our human service programs, including housing and health care, VOA Southeast helps over 47,000 people annually. Our work touches the mind, body, heart and ultimately the spirit of those we serve, integrating our deep compassion with highly effective programs and services.