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

Impact Stories

Berkeley County's FoodShare: Paving a New Path to Food Security

The FoodShare Berkeley County initiative addresses food insecurity and fosters a sense of collective accountability and community empowerment. Hundreds of households have already benefited from this program since it launched on June 28, underscoring its breadth and efficacy.
Impact Story

Camp iRock Empowers Young Readers

A crucial part of Camp iRock's success is the involvement of Call Me MiSTER interns and YMCA counselors who support classrooms and engage the children during YMCA activities.
Collage of different people
Impact Stories

Yvonne Brooks: Making History

Yvonne was named to her post in a few months ago, after serving as Treasurer of Georgia’s AFL-CIO for 11 years.
Impact Stories

Instilling a Love of Reading in Young Children

Children in a classroom clapping and playing
Impact Stories

Expanding Access to Quality, Affordable, Educational Child Care: A Look Across Women United

stampouthunger
Impact Stories

Heroes Among Us: Celebrating Letter Carriers and Their Community Impact

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.