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

Women holding a child cooking on a stove
Impact Story

The Facts About Hunger in America

Therapy dog engaging with a child
Impact Story

Paw Pals Program Boosts Kids' Mental Health

Women in a grocery store with 2 kids, holding bananas
In The News

United Way Worldwide's CEO Speaks to USA Today About 211 Impact Survey Data

Child sitting on a stack of books reading a book in a library.
Impact Story

Healing Through Story Time

Read Away nurtures emotional health and helps children grow into resilient adults.

Headshot of Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide
In The News

Summer means new clothes, bikes, strollers and more. How will tariffs impact parents?

Children running in through grass
Impact Story

Supporting Youth Mental Health

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.