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

Woman who is fanning herself in hot weather
Impact Story

How 211 Keeps Arizonans Safe in Extreme Heat

211 Arizona connects people to cooling centers, transportation, and vital resources to stay safe during Arizona's dangerous heat waves.
Beardsley Farm in Knoxville, Tennessee
Impact Story

Planting Hope: How Collaboration, Partnership, and Care Help Feed a Community

United Way proudly supports a network of local nonprofits working every day to build a stronger East Tennessee. This series highlights the inspiring work they’re making in our community, powered by your support.

Adam Fritz, United Way of Greater Knoxville
Impact Stories

Setting a Bigger Table

Building Real-Time Resilience Through Community Schools

Children raising their hands in a classroom
Impact Story

Knoxville’s Community Schools Are Rebuilding Trust and Delivering Results

Person who is sweating in hot weather
Impact Story

Heat, Hunger, and Hard Choices

211 Rhode Island is stepping in to help residents

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.