United Way of Washtenaw County Commits to Vaccinate the Great Lakes State

With a statewide goal to reach a 70% vaccination rate, Michigan Association of United Ways joins state-level steering committee to serve hard-to-reach communities

The Michigan Association of United Ways (MAUW) and the Michigan Nonprofit Association are launching a new initiative, Vaccinate the Great Lakes State, to encourage COVID-19 vaccination uptake and support reaching the state’s target of a 70% vaccination rate. As part of these efforts, United Way offices across Michigan, including United Way of Washtenaw County, will serve as a “hub” in high-need counties – based on MAUW’s ALICE Report data coupled with the Social Vulnerability Index – to develop unique plans for their communities in support of fieldwork for nonprofits. “United Way of Washtenaw County is pleased to collaborate with our local partners; the Washtenaw County Health Department Vaccine Ambassador program, the WISD Trusted Advisor program and a coalition of BIPOC churches to encourage people to get the COVID-19 vaccine”, shared Pam Smith, president and CEO, United Way of Washtenaw County. “When we LIVE UNITED, positive change can impact our community’s results.” The State of Michigan seeks to vaccinate at least 70% of the eligible population. Yet, due to
vaccine hesitancy and barriers to access, there is a clear unmet need for localized outreach, communication and coordination to ensure equitable vaccine uptake occurs in Michigan.

In summary, the Michigan Association of United Ways’ efforts will include:
●Forming a state-level steering committee composed of statewide organizations that
represent the groups serving hard-to-reach communities, including the Michigan
Primary Care Association and Federally Qualified Health Centers
●Initiating statewide communications with the Michigan Department of Health and
Human Services and CDC, and making those resources widely available to local
nonprofits
●Assisting nonprofits in identifying and reaching vulnerable populations
●Awarding mini-grants to local nonprofits to target fieldwork and engagement
●Collecting, analyzing, and visualizing data to assist local efforts

About the Michigan Association of United Ways
Michigan Association of United Ways (MAUW) is a partner in developing powerful
responses to current and emerging issues in local communities. The State Association
provides leadership in policy influence and capacity building to affect positive change.
MAUW serves approximately 35 local United Ways that represent the largest network of
non-governmental service providers and service funders in Michigan, collectively raising
and distributing significant resources to support local health and human service
organizations.

About United Way of Washtenaw County
As part of our 100-year history, the United Way of Washtenaw County brings people,
agencies and resources together to create a thriving community for everyone. Our
focus areas of Health, Education and Financial Stability provide the building blocks to
strengthen the community and create opportunities for individuals and families. Our
virtual Volunteer Center is an easy, online way for people to connect with nonprofits in
the community and our 2-1-1 helpline connects more than 8,000 people annually to
critically needed services. To learn more, donate, or volunteer, visit uwgive.o