Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health, a significant player in the philanthropic landscape of West Virginia, recently awarded a total of $102,000 in grants to various United Way organizations throughout the state. This initiative underscores Highmark’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of West Virginians, marking the fifth consecutive year of charitable giving by the organization. Since its inception, the fund has contributed approximately $506,000 in grants, making an impactful difference across all 55 counties.
Grant Distribution and Objectives
The grants, which ranged from $3,000 to $25,000, are strategically designed to address crucial needs within communities. Specifically, United Way agencies serving areas with a higher concentration of Highmark West Virginia members received the largest grants of $25,000 each. The remaining agencies were allocated $3,000, ensuring that even smaller organizations could benefit from this financial support.
Jay Sheehy, president-elect of Highmark West Virginia, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm for partnering with United Way. He emphasized the collective effort to create positive changes that impact families and residents in meaningful ways. This partnership is not merely about financial assistance; it’s a commitment to building stronger communities throughout the state.
Individual Grantees
The various United Way organizations that received funding include:
- United Way of Central West Virginia – $25,000
- United Way Alliance of the Mid-Ohio Valley – $25,000
- United Way of Upper Ohio Valley – $25,000
- United Way of Southern West Virginia – $3,000
- United Way of Harrison and Doddridge Counties – $3,000
- United Way of the River Cities – $3,000
- United Way of Greenbrier Valley – $3,000
- Tygart Valley United Way – $3,000
- United Way of Eastern Panhandle – $3,000
- United Way of Monongalia and Preston Counties – $3,000
- Potomac Highlands United Way – $3,000
- United Way of Gilmer, Lewis, and Upshur – $3,000
Each of these organizations plays a critical role in addressing the social issues and challenges facing their local communities, such as poverty, health disparities, and access to essential services.
The Impact of Generosity
Stacy DeCicco, executive director of the United Way Alliance of the Mid-Ohio Valley, articulated the significant impact that these grants will have, stating, “This generous support allows us to continue providing vital resources and programs to individuals and families in need.” Such sentiments reflect a broader appreciation for the sustained partnership between Highmark and United Way, which aims to uplift and empower West Virginia’s communities.
Longer-term Vision and Commitment
Since the establishment of the Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health in 2021, the organization has distributed nearly $8 million in grant funding to nonprofits in the state. This substantial investment showcases a long-term commitment to not only improving the health outcomes of West Virginians but also enhancing the overall quality of life.
Through initiatives like these, Highmark West Virginia is making strides to address systemic issues and foster resilience within communities. By investing in local organizations that have boots on the ground, they are effectively equipping them with the resources necessary to enact change.
Conclusion
The recent grant announcement from Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health highlights a critical movement towards enhancing community health and wellness in West Virginia. With a focus on partnership and collaboration, this funding is not just a financial transaction; it embodies a collective resolve to drive sustainable improvements in local communities. By empowering United Way organizations with the necessary resources, Highmark is fostering a spirit of unity and resilience that is essential for ongoing community development.
In a time when many regions face significant challenges, the commitment exhibited by Highmark West Virginia serves as a model for corporate social responsibility and philanthropic engagement. As the state continues to navigate its unique set of challenges, the collaborative efforts between Highmark and United Way provide hope and tangible support for those who need it the most. The path forward will undoubtedly be shaped by such partnerships, reflecting a shared vision of a healthier and stronger West Virginia for all its residents.
