Our History

United Way's story began on October 16, 1887, in Denver, Colorado, when a visionary group of local leaders came together with a shared conviction: that communities are stronger when they work as one. A priest, a rabbi, two ministers, and a woman who would become a pioneering civic leader joined forces to coordinate fundraising for 22 local agencies. That first campaign raised $21,700 — the equivalent of more than $700,000 in today's dollars — and planted the seeds of a movement that would change the world.

In its earliest form, the organization was known as the Charity Organization Society. As the movement grew and expanded across the country, it evolved into what became widely known as the Community Chest — a name that reflected its mission to pool community resources for shared benefit. By mid-century, the name had evolved again to United Fund, reflecting the broadening scope of its work and the diversity of causes it championed.

By 1970, United Way had become the name recognized across tens of thousands of communities. Today, United Way Worldwide serves as the leadership and support organization for a global network of nearly 1,100 local United Ways in more than 40 countries and territories. Together, this network touches the lives of millions of people each year — advancing education, financial stability, and health so that every person, everywhere, has an opportunity to thrive.