United way has long been known for its tremendous impact on community investment and development. As a non-profit organization operating at local, state, national and international levels, United Way advances the common good by creating opportunities for a better life for all. There are some key strategies and best practices that United Way applies to drive community investment. By mobilizing communities to drive change, promoting financial stability, nurturing youth and families, supporting strong communities and much more, United Way’s community investment approaches have benefited millions by nurturing individual lives and strengthening communities. Understanding United Way’s efforts and strategies around community investment can help other organizations and individuals make a positive difference.
Mobilize volunteers to meet local needs
One of the most powerful ways United Way advances community investment is through mobilizing volunteers. Tens of thousands of volunteers work with United Way each year to support community schools, financial stability programs, neighborhood revitalization efforts and more. United Way connects individuals from all backgrounds and promotes volunteerism as a way to engage people in meeting local needs. The direct person-to-person connections volunteers make strengthen the fabric of the community.
Support families and nurture children’s potential
United Way recognizes that supporting families and nurturing children is essential for community investment and improvement. Programs such as free tax preparation, financial coaching, affordable housing, college prep and after school care empower families and help children gain skills to succeed in school and life. By investing in the potential of every child and creating equitable opportunities for all, United Way builds the foundation for communities where all individuals can thrive.
Fund community programs through partnerships
United Way community investment efforts utilize partnerships to drive impact and change. Partnerships with schools, businesses, nonprofits, government, faith communities and others help direct funding and resources to programs focused on financial stability, education, health, basic needs and more. United Way’s partnerships allow funding and volunteers to be strategically leveraged so community programs can operate effectively and sustainably.
Promote equity, diversity and inclusion
Fundamental to United Way’s community investment vision is a commitment to advancing equity, diversity and inclusion. All community members deserve the chance to reach their potential. United Way partners with local agencies to break down barriers faced by marginalized groups and ensures community services reach underserved populations. Building understanding across cultures and creating opportunities for all fosters communities where people truly care for one another.
Respond to community crises
When crises like natural disasters, economic downturns or public health emergencies strike locally, United Way acts swiftly to support relief and recovery efforts. United Way’s partnerships and community presence enables gathering of funds and mobilizing volunteers rapidly to meet urgent needs. Getting help quickly to those most impacted by a crisis promotes community resiliency and ability to rebuild.
Drive local community impact
While United Way operates globally, the focus is always on driving local community impact. United Way engagement leaders and volunteers develop an in-depth understanding of needs in their communities. Funding decisions are made locally to have the greatest impact based on local priorities. This hyper-local approach allows United Way community investment programs to create targeted, meaningful change in individual neighborhoods and cities.
United Way’s comprehensive and multi-faceted drive to advance community investment has made a difference for 90 million people. Mobilizing volunteers, supporting families, funding programs through partnerships, promoting inclusion, responding to crises and driving local impact are key strategies United Way employs to create stronger, more equitable communities where all people have a chance to thrive. United Way provides an inspirational model of how positive change can be achieved through commitment to community.