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Press Release

United Way Worldwide and IDB join forces

Jul 31, 2013 - The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and United Way, the world's largest privately-funded charitable organization, have agreed to work together to promote programs and projects aimed at improving early childhood development in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). 

IDB President Luis Alberto Moreno and Brian A. Gallagher, CEO of United Way Worldwide, signed a memorandum of understanding on July 30 at the Bank’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. 

Latin America has made significant progress in extending public service coverage in healthcare, nutrition, childcare and education for children ranging from newborn to six years of age. Despite these advances, the poorest populations, including those living in rural areas, indigenous peoples and Afro-descendants, still live in precarious conditions. In at least seven countries in the region, between 25 percent and 50 percent of children suffer from chronic malnutrition. 

The IDB and United Way’s shared interest in improving the well-being of the region’s children in the region paved the way for establishment of this partnership. Both institutions believe in the importance of early childhood development through improved education, income and health—the building blocks for a good quality of life. 

United Way Worldwide and the IDB already have been working together on activities such as the ALAS-IDB Awards in Early Childhood Development and Early Childhood Development training. However, this new alliance opens new collaboration opportunities for both institutions, which will leverage experience gained from public-private partnerships and the Bank’s knowledge of social protection issues in the region. 

About United Way

United Way, a worldwide movement in 41 countries and territories, includes more than 1,200 local organizations in the United States. It advances the common good by focusing on education, income and health – the building blocks for a good quality life. LIVE UNITED is United Way’s call to action for everyone to give, to advocate and to volunteer to improve conditions in their local community.

About the IDB

The IDB supports efforts by Latin America and the Caribbean countries to reduce poverty and inequality. It aims to bring about development in a sustainable, climate-friendly way. Established in 1959, it is the leading source of development financing for the region, with a strong commitment to achieving measurable results, increased integrity, transparency and accountability.