By rdnewsNOW Staff

2026-2029

New United Way strategy sets direction for community impact across Central Alberta

Feb 21, 2026 | 8:00 AM

United Way Central Alberta (UWCA) has announced the launch of its Community Impact Strategy for 2026 – 2029, setting a renewed course to address growing community needs and strengthen supports for people across Central Alberta.

Developed through extensive community engagement and guided by UWCA’s volunteer Community Impact Council, officials say the strategy reflects input from local agencies, partners, and residents to ensure investments remain responsive, collaborative, and rooted in community realities.

“Our focus is simple – helping people thrive,” said Chelsea O’Donoghue, CEO of United Way Central Alberta, in a media release. “This strategy strengthens how we work with community partners to remove barriers, expand access to support, and ensure no one is left behind.”

According to the organization, the updated strategy continues to focus on three priority areas identified through community input:

Basic Needs – ensuring individuals and families can access essential supports

2026-2029

New United Way strategy sets direction for community impact across Central Alberta

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Mental Health – increasing access to timely, culturally responsive services

Brighter Futures – helping children, youth, and families build skills, stability, and opportunity

Officials say refinements to the strategy include expanded opportunities for multi-year funding in Basic Needs and updated granting language to support broader inclusion and culturally responsive programming.

Applications for multi-year funding open March 16, 2026, with successful programs beginning July 1, 2026.

Project funding and small grants open April 1, 2026 and will remain available while funds last.

The organization says funding decisions will continue to be guided by UWCA’s volunteer Community Impact Council, ensuring investments remain transparent, accountable, and aligned with community priorities.

The full Community Impact Strategy is available at caunitedway.ca.