United Way of Ellis County
Applications are now open for eligible nonprofit organizations seeking funding through the Ellis County CARE Council process.
Each year, the CARE Council brings together 12 community volunteers to review funding requests and help guide local investments in programs and services that benefit residents across Ellis County.
Through one collaborative application process, the CARE Council reviews requests for funding from United Way of Ellis County, the City of Hays Social Service Funds and Alcohol Tax Funds, the Ellis County Alcohol Tax Funds, and Ellis County Outside Funding.
Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving Ellis County may apply for funding through the CARE Council from one or more of these sources. Organizations seeking funding must submit a completed application by November 15.
United Way of Ellis County funding awarded through this application cycle will be for the 2027 budget year, while City of Hays and Ellis County funding will be for the 2028 budget year.
The CARE Council process brings community voices and local knowledge into funding decisions while providing a coordinated process for organizations seeking support.
“The CARE Council brings local voices to the table when decisions are being made about local resources,” said Hali Bielser, CARE Council Chair. “It’s a collaborative process that helps connect funding with organizations working every day to meet needs across Ellis County.”
United Way of Ellis County coordinates the CARE Council application and review process in partnership with the City of Hays and Ellis County.
Applications and additional information are available at www.liveunited.us/agency-application.
For questions or additional information, contact Janelle VanKooten, executive director of United Way of Ellis County, at 785-628-8281 or director@liveunited.us.
About the CARE Council
The CARE Council is made up of 12 community volunteers who review funding applications on behalf of United Way of Ellis County, the City of Hays, and Ellis County. The collaborative process helps connect local resources to nonprofit organizations and programs that serve residents throughout Ellis County.