What United Ways Do

In communities across America, 1350 United Ways improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of their communities. More than fundraisers, United Ways are partners in change, working with a broad range of people and organizations to identify and resolve pressing community issues. United Ways have led the nonprofit sector in the call for transparent accountability and measurable results.

To achieve measurable, lasting change, United Ways identify and build on community strengths and assets, help individuals and groups with specific community interests find ways to contribute their time and talents, support direct-service programs and community-change efforts, and advocate for public policy changes.

All of this is done in collaboration with diverse partners. Depending on the issue and how the community chooses to address it, United Ways work with schools, government agencies, businesses, organized labor, financial institutions, community development corporations, voluntary and neighborhood associations, the faith community, and others.

Because of the unique conditions in diverse communities, the issues United Ways address are determined locally. Challenges ranging from addiction and domestic violence to obesity and race relations are on the agenda for various United Ways.

Although priorities for United Way action are set locally, common themes include:

• Helping children succeed
• Strengthening and supporting families
• Promoting self-sufficiency
• Building vital and safe neighborhoods
• Here are just three examples of how United Ways and their partners have engaged communities to change conditions in ways that improved lives.