Northwest Region of United Way
Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties compromise our Northwest Region. This includes over 5,000 square miles served by over 1,000 active volunteers. Whether you are a Titan, Husky, Blazer, Elk, or Laker, you stand UNITED in supporting your community and creating a better tomorrow for our area’s youth.
The ALICE Threshold
United Way of Northwest Michigan is focused on education, financial stability, and health in our community. One of the key indicators to look at financial stability is the ALICE threshold. ALICE stands for Assets Limited Income Constrained Employed, and it refers to individuals who work and are above the poverty line, but barely make enough to keep their heads above water.
In the counties we serve, many families rely on free or reduced school lunches. These are the percentages, by county, of families who receive these lunches:
There are many other factors that impact our area’s need for services. These include educational factors, like drop-out rates and student proficiency in key subjects. Health and social factors, like child abuse and neglect and maternal smoking, also create a significant need for our services.
Questions? Contact Bailey Nuss

Bailey Nuss
Director of Volunteer Engagement
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