Wes Todd searches for grants for MCH, Inc. at UMC's office.News

UMC Joins Foundation Center’s Global Network

October 26, 2018By

UMC Now Provides Resources for Local Grantseekers

Nonprofit organizations and other grantseekers in Midcoast Maine now have access to a valuable new collection of resources at United Midcoast Charities.

In response to feedback from UMC’s Nonprofit Advisory Council and thanks to support from a generous donor, UMC has become a Funding Information Network partner with Foundation Center, the leading source of information about philanthropy worldwide.

“As a Funding Information Network partner, we can now offer organizations and individuals free access to detailed information on grantmakers and how to apply for funding,” says UMC Executive Director Megan Williams. “These resources are open to everyone, not just the agencies that receive grants from us. People can make appointments to come to UMC’s office to search Foundation Center’s three online directories of more than 140,000 U.S. grantmakers, access foundation maps and find proposal writing guides.”

READ MORE
Belfast Soup KitchenNews

Staggering Statistics on Poverty in the U.S. – and It’s Happening Here, Too

June 20, 2018By

The United Way has released a report illustrating where our country is, despite a reduction in unemployment since the 2008 recession ended.

2018 Applications to UMC’s Grants Program reflect the same reality that is illustrated in this study – even working families can’t afford the basics, right here in Midcoast Maine! We are currently reviewing nearly 60 applications in our four focus areas that are asking for more than $700,000 of support to address the needs of our friends and neighbors.

You can help right now in our local area by making a donation – 100% of donations go toward our Grants Program.

READ MORE
Gold-StarNews

United Midcoast Charities Earns GuideStar’s Gold Seal Rating for Transparency

June 4, 2018By

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) has received a gold seal on its nonprofit profile at GuideStar, a leading source of information about nonprofit organizations.

The gold seal, which recognizes a commitment to transparency, places UMC in the top five percent of nonprofit organizations listed on GuideStar’s website. UMC’s GuideStar profile shares in-depth information about its goals, strategies, capabilities and progress. The organization’s recently released Annual Report is another example of a renewed commitment to transparency.

“Our dedication to transparency means we are open about our finances and our decision-making process,” says UMC President John Viehman. “Responsible stewardship and accountability are essential to everything we do.”

READ MORE
Midcoast-Charities-Banner-2Why Give?

When It Comes to Donating Money, Whom Do You Trust?

May 17, 2018By

If you are interested in helping neighbors in need and you want help vetting your options, giving to UMC is a great choice. We do all of the work mentioned in this New York Times article – digging into financials, verifying charitable status, site visits. In fact, our Grants Committee and Board Members are out and about in Knox and Waldo counties this month doing more than 30 site visits on potential grantees! Think of UMC as your personal Philanthropy Adviser in the Midcoast.

READ MORE
UMC Nonprofit Advisory CouncilFocus Areas

United Midcoast Charities Announces New Strategic Direction

February 15, 2018By

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) has announced a new strategic direction that emphasizes identifying needs and finding solutions in four focus areas addressed by local nonprofit organizations: food, housing, health & safety and economic security.

The new direction comes after an intensive two-year strategic planning process that involved UMC’s agency partners, community members, donors and others. Together, they addressed three essential questions: Is UMC needed? Is UMC’s mission still relevant? And is the organization structured to continue to serve the needs of our communities for the next 75-plus years?

READ MORE
Great-2017-Non-Profits-AwardNews

United Midcoast Charities Named “2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit”

December 9, 2017By

United Midcoast Charities announced that it has recently been named a “2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit” by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits.

United Midcoast Charities (UMC) provides grants to more than 50 nonprofit organizations Knox and Waldo counties that help residents in need with essential services.

“We are honored to be named a 2017 Top-Rated Nonprofit,” says John Viehman, Board President. We are proud of our accomplishments this year, including the addition of a full-time Executive Director, $500,000 in grants to our local community and the wrap up of a new strategic plan outlining new funding and guidance initiatives to support our grantees.”

READ MORE
...The rest of the story

Why Donate to UMC?

December 5, 2017By 0 comment

People often ask me about the advantages of donating to United Midcoast Charities. Here are some reasons why it can be the best way to make an impact in Knox and Waldo counties:

  • Simplicity

United Midcoast Charities is your “one-stop shop” for all of your charitable giving needs. It’s an easy and effective way to support the groups and issues you care about through a gift to a single organization.

  • Tax Benefits

Gifts to United Midcoast Charities receive the maximum tax advantages for income, gift and estate tax purposes.

  • Flexibility

United Midcoast Charities can receive many kinds of gifts. We are pleased help you and your financial advisor develop a gift plan to meet your personal financial needs and all of your charitable intentions, now and in the future.

READ MORE