Impact Story
Volunteer: KD Musser
Volunteering with United Way Provides Needed Boost for Avid Reader in Illinois
Global Reach
U.S. and Canada
Countries In This Region
Overview
United Way's roots are deep in this region with the founding of United Way tracing back to Denver, Colorado in 1887. Community collaboration is at the heart of local United Ways across U.S. and Canada. Collectively, more than 1,000 local United Ways serve millions of families in need.
From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, local United Ways bring people and resources together to tackle each communities' toughest challenges to create a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential.
We unite people, ideas and innovation and bring them together to solve humanity's most complex issues.
- Fahim Haque, Centraide of Greater Montreal
U.S. and Canada Impact
Bringing local ideas, people and resources together to make sure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
7.3M
individuals served across Canada each year
900+
local United Ways in communities across the United States
750K+
volunteers across the United States each year
Stories Across U.S. and Canada
Impact Story
A Boost for Jasmine's Family
Thanks to a United Way of Atlanta BOOST scholarship, the Davis family can give their two toddlers a quality learning experience.
In the News
211 Callers Struggling to Cover Basic Needs
New 211 data shows growing demand for housing and utility assistance as millions of Americans struggle to cover basic needs and make ends meet.
First Person: Volunteer
Gaining STEAM: Volunteers Build Born Learning Trail
Born Learning STEAM Trails introduce Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math concepts through outdoor exploration.
In the News
Working Middle Class Struggling in Shifting Economy
Heather Black, vice president of 211 system strategy, says more callers need help covering basic expenses
Impact Story
How United Way is Helping Student-Parents Stay in School
United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County is providing a pathway to stability and success for parents working toward a better future through scholarships funded by Women United.
18M+
referrals through 211 in 2024
Supported by United Way, 211 is a free, confidential service that connects people to locally available programs and resources across the U.S. and Canada. In 2024, the 211 network responded to over 16 million requests for help resulting in more than 18 million hyperlocal referrals for assistance.
How You Can Help
Take the next step to support thriving communities. Your gift now or in the future, or the gift of your time, are valuable contributions to our shared mission.