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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.

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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.”

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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.

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March Nonprofit News

March 20, 2018By

Here are some resources Megan has been referencing – click the here to read all of our March Nonprofit News!

MEGAN’S BOOKMARKS
  1. Budgeting for Nonprofits
    National Council of Nonprofits
  2. Resources for Nonprofit Financial Management (Program budget template)
    The Wallace Foundation
  3. Principles for Good Practice and Ethical Practice Resource Center
    Independent Sector
  4. 5 Things to Never Say Publicly
    Jerold Panas, Linzy & Partners – Nonprofit Consultants
  5. Pro Bono Technology Assessments
    Maine Association of Nonprofits
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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?

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