United Way’s Transition to Accountability Process Is Working.

As the outgoing chair of the Board of Directors for United Way of Weld County, I’d like to reflect on our achievements, goals and challenges we face in the organization.  First, I’m happy to report real progress on the United Way initiative programs that are focused and transitioning our grant giving from a process that measured the number of clients served to a process that is focused on results achieved.  While we have more work to do we have taken steps to move our funding towards outcomes and a greater level of accountability. The majority of the agencies that work with United Way now have a fairly good understanding of how the process works and I believe we’ve kept funding at a consistent level for the majority of our partner agencies.  In addition, our volunteer assessment groups that recommend agency funding have had a great year improving an equitable application and tracking program.  The funding requests have received a thorough review by volunteers, which includes a comprehensive grading process.  As a result of this information, we can make better and more consistent decisions for funding.  I’m most excited about this progress and can confidently say that funds are being directed to some of the very best programs in our community.

Board and Leadership Stability is Key.

We are extremely fortunate to have the leadership and dedication from United Way Board members and Campaign Co-Chairs Manny Sisneros and Bill May.  They agreed to run the annual campaign for two years, rather than just one. I just can’t tell you how much that means, especially in these economically challenging times.  It is such a challenging and critical position.  The two of them have demonstrated incredible leadership and commitment, and have been able to recruit many of their committee members to also stay in place for a second term. This, along with the participation at the board level, has been tremendous and key to achieving the budget through these difficult economic times.  In addition, the foundation to our funding is centered on the generosity of companies and our Tiller level givers who have consistently stepped up at historic levels.  They have maintained or increased their financial support, which sets an example as we go out and try to expand our giving base.  This support is so invaluable.  We’ve also worked hard to attract younger givers and volunteers, to help build a foundation for the future.  We are continually challenged by the aging of our leadership, and have worked hard to attract younger people to help us in the grant making process and fundraising areas.  The numbers are encouraging and we are grateful to these individuals who are stepping up to be the future of United Way.

Dedicated Staff at United Way Makes a Difference.

In this day and age, non profit organizations are challenged by the increased cost of living and the demand for qualified employees.  At United Way of Weld County, we’ve been fortunate to retain an excellent management team.  As the workload and processes have increased, the staff has performed above and beyond the call of duty, with fewer employees working more and more hours. The longer they’re around, the better—and the more productive our United Way is.  In an environment where the competition for key non-profit personnel is staggering, we are proud of our staff and their loyalty.


It’s been a gratifying year, and I hope Nancy Teksten, the incoming Chair of United Way of Weld County enjoys the same kind of support, encouragement and resources that I’ve enjoyed.


Byron W. Bateman is the Chairman, President and C.E.O. of Cache Bank and Trust and an active volunteer in the community.