Frequently Asked Questions

United Way is a global nonprofit network that brings people and organizations together to create lasting change in communities. We advance the common good by focusing on education, financial stability, and health — the building blocks of a good quality of life.

United Way was founded in 1887 in Denver, Colorado. For more than 135 years, we have been bringing people together to build stronger, more resilient communities around the world.

United Way Worldwide is the leadership and support organization for nearly 1,100 local United Ways operating in more than 40 countries and territories. Local United Ways are independently governed organizations that serve their own communities. United Way Worldwide provides strategy, resources, and infrastructure to help local United Ways maximize their impact.

United Way's mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good. We focus on creating opportunities for a better education, a stable income, and good health for every person in every community.

You can donate online through our website. Click the "Donate" button at the top of any page to make a secure gift. You can also give through your employer's workplace giving campaign if your company partners with United Way.

Yes. United Way is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. You will receive a donation receipt by email after your gift is processed, which you can use for tax purposes.

United Way Worldwide is committed to transparency and efficiency. We are proud to hold a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and Platinum status from Candid (formerly GuideStar), reflecting our commitment to accountability and responsible stewardship of donor funds.

Yes. You can often direct your donation to specific programs or areas of focus such as education, health, or financial stability. Contact your local United Way to learn about designation options available in your community.

Yes. Many donors choose to give monthly to provide a steady, reliable stream of support. A recurring gift allows us to plan programs more effectively and maximize the impact of your generosity over time.

The best way to volunteer is through your local United Way. Visit your local United Way's website to find volunteer opportunities in your area. Opportunities range from one-time events to ongoing commitments and vary by community.

Volunteer opportunities include tutoring and mentoring students, preparing tax returns for low-income families through free tax prep programs, serving at food banks and pantries, participating in community clean-up projects, joining advocacy campaigns, and much more.

Absolutely! United Way frequently partners with businesses to coordinate employee volunteer events. Contact your local United Way or reach out through our Partner With Us page to discuss group volunteer opportunities for your team.

211 is a free, confidential helpline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. When you dial 2-1-1, you are connected to a trained specialist who can help you find local resources for food, housing, utility assistance, mental health support, employment, and hundreds of other essential services.

211 is available in all 50 U.S. states and many parts of Canada. You can also visit 211.org to search for services online by zip code.

Yes. Calls to 211 are confidential. You can get help without sharing your name or personal information if you prefer.

Use our Find Your Local United Way tool on this website to locate the United Way serving your community. Simply enter your zip code or city to find contact information, local programs, and volunteer opportunities near you.

Yes. Each local United Way is an independent, locally governed nonprofit organization. While they operate under the United Way brand and benefit from the resources and guidance of United Way Worldwide, they make their own decisions about which programs and agencies to support based on local community needs.

United Way Worldwide's annual reports, audited financial statements, and IRS Form 990 filings are available on our Public Reporting page. We are committed to full financial transparency so donors can feel confident in how their contributions are used.

United Way Worldwide holds a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, Platinum Transparency status from Candid (GuideStar), accreditation from the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance, and has been certified as a Great Place to Work. These ratings reflect our commitment to accountability, transparency, and sound financial management.