Applications are now open for the Connecticut Social Equity Council’s (the Council) Reimagine & Revitalize (R2) Program in Greater Waterbury through United Way of Greater Waterbury. Eligible community-based organizations serving Greater Waterbury are invited to apply for funding opportunities supporting Economic Development, Reentry Initiatives, and Youth Initiatives.
Through the R2 Program, the Council is investing $36 million over three years to support community-driven initiatives in communities disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs.
Organizations are encouraged to review eligibility requirements, attend information sessions, and submit applications through United Way of Greater Waterbury at unitedwaygw.org/r2grant before the July 15, 2026 deadline.
In Greater Waterbury, United Way of Greater Waterbury will work in partnership with the Council to administer the local application process, oversee the distribution of funding, and support awarded organizations throughout the grant period. Funding in the region is expected to support approximately 18 community-based organizations, with grant awards ranging from $75,000 to $300,000 in total.
Applicants are invited to attend one of two webinar training sessions that will describe the grant and answer questions from 12 to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, and Monday, June 15. Registration is not required but highly encouraged.
“The launch of the Reimagine & Revitalize (R2) Program represents a major step forward in delivering on our commitment to communities most impacted by the War on Drugs,” said Brandon L. McGee Jr., CEO of the Social Equity Council. “By partnering with trusted organizations like United Way of Greater Waterbury, we are ensuring that these investments reach the communities they are intended to serve and create meaningful, long-term opportunity.”
Kristen Jacoby, MPH, President & CPO, United Way of Greater Waterbury, said ““We are excited to partner with the Council on the 2026 Revitalize & Reimagine (R2) Program. It is an opportunity to focus on the shared priorities that support the underserved in our community, and benefits Greater Waterbury as a whole. This work closely mirrors United Way’s mission and our commitment to make a tangible, long-lasting impact on the lives of Waterbury residents; our vision is an engaged, inspired community in which all people thrive with healthy lives, quality education, and financial stability.”
As grant manager, United Way of Greater Waterbury will administer the Council’s Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO), oversee application review and scoring, recommend awards for Council approval, and provide ongoing oversight and reporting support for funded programs.
The R2 Program reflects the Council’s commitment to advancing equity through intentional reinvestment by supporting community-driven solutions that expand opportunity, promote stability, and strengthen communities across Connecticut. All funding supports initiatives aligned with the Council’s core priorities: economic development, reentry initiatives, and youth initiatives.