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

Skyline of LA with warm sun nearing sunset
Impact Story

3 Ways United Way is Leading Disaster Recovery

Woman sitting in a coffee shop looking out of the window
Impact Story

Overcoming Barriers: How Darrisha Found Joy, Stability, and Steps Forward Through United Way

Angela F. Williams posed in front of a United Way logo with "Woman of the year" written on it
In the News

Angela F. Williams redefines leadership as CEO of United Way Worldwide

Woman working in a market wearing an apron.
Impact Story

Three Steps to Financial Stability

Mary Gates holds Bill Gates as a baby
Impact Stories

Lessons From Mom

How Bill Gates's Mother Shaped His Philanthropic Journey

Teenager cutting with a saw in class
Impact Story

Helping Homeless Youth Find Stability: Chase's Story

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.