Impact Story
Caring for Kids and Nurturing Community
"They don't just teach my grandkids—they love them."
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
In The News
211 Providing Support During Extreme Heat Wave
United Way Worldwide’s Vice President of 211 System Strategy, Heather Black, speaks with FOX Weather about extreme heat and 211
In The News
Caregivers Can Now Call 211 for Help in 10 New States
AARP, United Way initiative expands to link more caregivers with support and resources
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.