United Fund meets with council to discuss taking a role in riverboat funding distribution

Joanne Cunningham, outgoing executive director of United Fund, introduced Blair Hornberger, the organization's new staff member, and described United Fund's vetting process and outcomes-based approach to distributing funds. "We have an amazing vetting process... every year you get a stack of paper about that tall that tells in detail what these organizations do," Cunningham said.

Council members discussed the idea of redirecting some riverboat funds to United Fund so the nonprofit could vet applicants and distribute money to 501(c)(3) recipients. United Fund noted it must follow its bylaws (funding 501(c)(3) organizations) and would need to consult its board before accepting a formal role. Cunningham and Hornberger invited council members to meet with the United Fund board and suggested council members could help educate the board about council priorities.

There was no vote or commitment at the meeting; the parties agreed to schedule follow-up meetings so United Fund's board can advise on logistics and a potential memorandum of understanding.