In 1887, a Denver priest, two ministers, and a rabbi recognized the need for cooperative action to address their city’s welfare problems. They put their heads together to plan the first united campaign for ten health and welfare agencies.
The result was an organization which served as an agent to collect funds for local charities, as well as to coordinate relief services, counsel and refer clients to cooperating agencies, and to make emergency assistance grants. That year, Denver raised $21,700 and created a movement that would spread throughout the country to become United Way.
Over 118 years later, United Way is still focused on mobilizing the caring power of communities and making a difference in people’s lives, using the power of everyone in the community working together to create a brighter future. Common focus areas include helping children and youth achieve their potential, promoting financial stability and independence, and improving people’s health.
The work of United Way is fueled by the passion of 2.8 million volunteers and 9.8 million donors who give their time, their money, and their voice to improve the lives of others. See the difference you could create in your community with United Way’s Common Good Forecaster.