United Way, one of the largest and oldest community-based organizations in our area has a simple way of helping people. We discover what the needs of the community are, and then gather the resources to meet those needs.

We believe that all children, families and adults in our region should be safe, and able to reach their full potential. Through numerous programs and agencies, United Way provides a continuum of services that support individuals and families - from infants to seniors. That means that children and youth have the basic supports they need. Communities - both geographic and communities of people with common histories and characteristics - are engaged, safe and thriving. It also means that adults are able to live independently and care for dependent family members responsibly.

The work we do through various agencies, programs, and community partnerships will result in:

• Children ages 0-6 reaching appropriate developmental milestones, and being well prepared to start school.
• Individuals and families having decent and affordable housing.
• Children and youth that are supported, nurtured and protected in their homes and communities.
• School-age children and youth attaining the academic, technological and social competencies they need in order to succeed in life.
• Children and youth with increased healthy behavior and wellness, participating in quality health care.
• Adults that have the education, knowledge, and skills to meet the demands of the 21st Century.
• Adults and families that have sufficient resources to stabilize and move beyond crises.
• Adults with increased healthy behavior and wellness.
• Individuals with long-term disabilities or chronic illnesses, as well as the elderly, able to live independently in their communities.
• Individuals and families able to live in engaged and thriving communities.

United Way is committed and accountable to our community. Through our work, we:

• Act as a leader and key convener on important issues relating to the Community Impact Plan.
• Partner and build the capacity for a network of agencies that deliver high-quality, comprehensive services to the community.
• Engage funders to provide adequate resources so agencies can deliver services that meet basic needs.
• Support a strengthened network of coalitions that promote changes in public policy.
• Recruit volunteers to support the Community Impact Plan.
• Support policies to meet the basic needs of the region's citizens.