Children in a classroom with United Way adults
Global Reach

U.S. and Canada

Map of countries in US and Canada region

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

Man in purple shirt with 2-1-1 headset on
In the News

Calls For Help Jumped 1.4M During 2024

Individuals sitting on the ground at a temporary shelter
Press Release

211 Helpline Data Reveals Most Pressing U.S. Community Needs

Data collected from 16.8 million requests for help in 2024 highlight individuals’ and families’ continued struggle to meet basic needs nationally
Man working with a computer and a manual
Impact Story

Repair and Reuse with Tech United Volunteer, Samuel Inzerillo

What happens to a laptop when it’s no longer wanted? Does it end up in a junk drawer buried beneath old charging cables or in a box in the attic? What if your old tech could be put to good use, as a way to help others?
Family sitting in a field of grain
Impact Story

Serving Rural Communities Through 211

Woman standing in a red shirt that reads "Walk for Warmth"
Impact Story

United Way of Anchorage Keeps The Heat On

Mobilizing the community to help neighbors pay heating bills

Adult wearing military pants holding child's hand.
Impact Story

Supporting Veterans and Military Families Across Nebraska

Individuals sitting on the ground at a temporary shelter

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.