Financial Information from
990 Year Ending 12/31/2010
For a copy of the complete 990,
please contact us.

Office of Attorney General charitable organization recognition letter

501c3 Determination Letter

How Funds Are Invested…

Partner Agencies
United Way of Bemidji Area strategically invests donor dollars in reputable, knowledgeable agencies that build a solid network of support around our community in the areas of education, income and health. 

Our community investment process ensures that funds raised in the campaign are invested back into community programs that address the most critical needs with the greatest impact possible.  Our Community Investment Cabinet is the hallmark of our accountability to the community.  They spend countless hours thoroughly reviewing and visiting agencies, and make funding recommendations to the United Way’s Board of Directors.  The Board of Directors is responsible for final investment decisions when they approve the total investment to Partner Agencies each year.   

This year, the United Way invested a total of $293,000 in thirty-six (36) nonprofit programs and initiatives that address the root-cause of the most serious human needs in our community and create real, lasting change in people’s lives in the areas of education, income and health.  Of the $293,000 to be awarded, $93,700 will fund educational programs that help children, youth and young adults achieve their full potential; $64,600 will support income programs and services that promote financial stability and increase self-sufficiency; and $134,700 will fund programs that improve people’s health and social well-being, and provide emergency services to those in need.

Remaining campaign funds are invested in: Venture Grants (% in with education, income and health focus areas), Community Impact Initiatives and year-round programs (12%); United Way of America dues (1%); and support administration expenses and fundraising expenses (14%) 


Venture Grants
At least 1% of campaign contributions are set aside for one time grants to meet new and emerging needs of nonprofits in our community.  These grants are distributed through our Venture Grant Program.  In 2011, five (5) agencies were awarded Venture Grants for a total of $10,140. 

Community Impact Initiatives  
United Way driven community impact initiatives that address pressing unmet needs in our community, include: Backpack Buddies, a program to respond to child food insecurity and hunger by provide food packs on weekends and during school breaks (partnership with the Bemidji school district); Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit and free tax preparation site awareness to help create financial stability for those in need; and, FamilyWize, a free prescription discount card program to help reduce the cost of medicine for children, families and individuals.

Along with other community partners, both for profit and nonprofit, the United Way of Bemidji Area sponsors a number of year round programs such as Coats for the Community, Holiday Gifts for Kids, “Stamp Out Hunger” National Letter Carriers Food Drive, Senior Community Clean-Up Day, Someone Special Volunteer program, “Inspire By Example” Volunteer Recognition program, and Week of Caring.