Be Part of Something Meaningful
This is your opportunity to learn, engage, and directly influence how we create impact together. Whether you’re new to the community or have lived here your whole life, your voice matters in this process.
Join us—and help shape the future of our community.
Do you want a direct voice in how local dollars create real change in our community?
Join United Way of Marquette County’s Community Impact Panels—a unique, engaging volunteer experience where community members like you help determine how funds from our annual campaign are invested in local programs.
Each year, our partner agencies submit funding proposals for programs addressing critical needs across Marquette County. As a volunteer, you’ll review these applications, hear directly from the agencies, ask questions, and ultimately help recommend how funding should be allocated.
Think of it as a community-focused version of Shark Tank—but instead of businesses, you’ll hear from nonprofits working to improve lives right here at home. And instead of profits, the goal is meaningful, measurable impact.
Why Participate?
- Make a real impact – Help guide funding decisions that directly affect local families and individuals.
- Learn more about your community – Discover programs and services you may not even know exist.
- Engage in meaningful discussion – Collaborate with other community members to evaluate needs and opportunities.
- No prior experience required – Just bring your perspective, curiosity, and desire to give back.
Volunteers consistently say this is one of the most rewarding experiences they’ve had—leaving with a deeper understanding of our community and a strong sense of connection to the work being done.
What is required:
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Attending the Community Investment Panels, April 30th, approximately 5-9 p.m.
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Attending a 45-minute training session (available April 21st & 22nd). This is required for first-time volunteers and recommended for everyone.
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Allocating the time to thoroughly review 5-6 funding proposals on your own time April 22-29th.
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Completion of the CI Volunteer Code of Ethics, Confidentiality Agreement, and Conflict of Interest form: https://form.jotform.com/260465276842160.
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Professionalism, confidentiality, and a desire to improve our community well-being.
For more information on the Community Investment Panels and volunteer expectations, please email Andrew Rickauer arickauer@uwmqt.org
Please note: In addition to responding to this volunteer opportunity for the Community Investment Panels themselves, you will also need to Register for Training separately.
Here is the schedule for this activity:
5-5:35 - Check-in and dinner
5:35-5:50 - Welcome, reminders, and questions
6:00 - up to 9:00 Agency presentations and funding discussions
At the end of the evening, your panel’s recommendations are combined to determine how funding is distributed—ensuring decisions are community-driven and locally informed.
