United Way engages all sectors of the community to advance the common good by focusing on education, income and health – the building blocks for a good life.  We assess the needs of the Fox Cities community and develop plans to address identified priority issues.  Because government is a critical decision-maker and the major provider and funder of health and human services, we will undertake public policy work on items related to the priority issues of United Way Fox Cities as deemed necessary.

 

The public policy agenda outlines those priorities where legislative activity will be monitored to proactively identify issues that may ultimately have undesirable ramifications for United Way Fox Cities and its partner agency programs.  The priorities and priority rankings of the Public Policy Committee are consistent with those used in the investment of United Way resources.  Legislation at local, state and federal levels will be monitored for any policy items that may require action by the Public Policy Committee and board awareness / review.

United Way’s public policy agenda is prioritized in three tiers: 

·         For Tier 1 issues, we will devote resources to educate legislators and advocate on these issues. 

·         For issues at the Tier 2 level, United Way will support coalition or collaborative partners in their advocacy efforts. 

·         Tier 3 issues will be monitored by staff and volunteers who will respond to opportunities for policy changes as they arise (e.g. “sign-on” letters.)

 

Tier One Issues:

·         Enhance and promote quality child care and early learning

·         Improve access to transportation

·         Improve access to and delivery of mental health services

·         Improve availability and access to healthy food

·         Develop public awareness and support of 2-1-1 / Information & Referral

 

 

Tier Two Issues:

·         Improve access to physical health and dental care of the uninsured and under-insured

·         Prevent intimate crimes (domestic, sexual & child abuse) and support victims

·         Improve availability and access to safe, adequate shelter and affordable housing

·         Promote options for older adults, families and caregivers to successfully adjust and adapt to changes in later life

·         Improve basic academic and language skills, financial literacy and employment skills

 

 

Tier Three Issues:

·         Support families with children to strengthen parenting and life skills

·         Promote skills enhancement and independent living for person with disabilities

·         Improve availability and access to affordable, civil legal services for low-income individuals and families

·         Provide positive youth development

·         Increase literacy among diverse populations

·         Strengthen the nonprofit sector