United Way Frequently Asked Questions
Connecting Families with Opportunities for a Better Life
What is United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut (United Way)? Founded in 1924, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to improve lives for children and families in the 40 towns of central and northeastern Connecticut. We are the largest United Way in Connecticut and the second largest in New England. Since inception, more than $930 million has been raised by our United Way to help people in our community.
What is United Way’s mission and vision? Our mission is to engage and bring together people and resources committed to the well-being of children and families in our community. Our vision is a community where opportunities are available for every child to succeed in school and for every family to achieve financial security.
How does United Way help working families? Despite working hard, one in three families in central and northeastern Connecticut struggle to pay bills, put food on the table, make ends meet and give their children the education they deserve – and this affects our entire community. Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed (ALICE) represents households earning more than the federal poverty level, but less than the basic cost of living. Challenges facing ALICE households are complex and it’s a long journey to self-sufficiency and success, yet we are making progress. With our partners, donors and volunteers, we connect ALICE and other hard-working individuals with opportunities to get ahead through United Way-supported programs and initiatives.
How does United Way improve lives? Through gifts to United Way Community Investment, we bring together public, private and nonprofit partners across our region to find solutions to some of our community’s most pressing problems. Our United Way focuses on three strategies: • Helping children and youth succeed academically and in life: We prepare youth for academic success with a focus on early childhood education, grade-level reading and transition to high school. • Ensuring families become more financially secure: We connect people with good jobs and opportunities to learn how to save and grow their money. • Supporting healthier lives and providing access to basic needs: We help individuals and families access immediate emergency assistance, such as food, shelter, and quality health-related services.
What is the United Way Campaign? Each year, thousands of people and hundreds of local companies and organizations support the United Way Campaign through workplace and individual giving. Locally, United Way partners with Community Health Charities in the largest annual fundraising effort in Connecticut for health and human services. The campaign raises funds for a variety of nonprofit organizations, including local programs and initiatives supported by United Way Community Investment. Last year, more than $22 million was raised by 400 local workplaces and 30,000 donors.
What choices do I have when making my gift to the campaign? You may make a gift to United Way Community Investment or a specific focus area (education, financial security, health or basic needs) and/or a designated gift to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization of your choice.
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