The United Way of Washtenaw County continues to make a difference to Friends In Deed. Most recently, we received a $10,000 grant award in support of our Circles Program. As you know, the Circles program was launched in July of 2017 and the first “class” of Leaders (low-income head of households) and Allies (middle to high-income volunteers) were matched this last October. The 18-month program utilizes education, goal setting, training and relationships to help Leaders develop the resources and social capital they need to rise out of poverty and achieve economic independence.