About Us - What is United Way?
You’ve heard the name, but do you know the mission? Just what exactly is United Way?
Founded in 1905 by Atlantans committed to caring for their neighbors, United Way of Greater Atlanta has always been about bringing community together. Today, we build on that legacy by uniting people, resources, and partners to improve lives and create lasting change, serving as one of the largest chapters in the United Way Worldwide network.
Who is United Way?
Our focus is simple: help children and families build stable, self-sustaining lives. That starts early, by supporting strong foundations in learning, and continues through access to career opportunities, financial stability, and the resources families need to move forward.
United Way of Greater Atlanta is a coalition of people—donors, volunteers, business leaders, community partners, and neighbors—working together to change what’s possible for families in our region.
Because right now, the odds are stacked against too many children. In Greater Atlanta, a child born into a low-income household has just a 4% chance of moving out of poverty by adulthood. We’re working to change that.
We bring people and partners together to connect families to real opportunities—and to change the conditions that hold them back—so that where a child starts doesn’t determine how far they can go.
United Way’s Mission
Engage and bring together people and resources to drive sustainable and equitable improvements in the well-being of children, families, and individuals in the community.
United Way’s Vision
Greater Atlanta is a thriving and inclusive community where every person, regardless of race, identity, or circumstances, has equitable opportunities to live a healthy life and to acquire the education and skills they need to earn a sustaining wage so that they may achieve their full potential.
United Way’s Values
We believe a culture of belonging is essential to creating meaningful change. United Way values diverse perspectives and works to ensure inclusive practices. By leading with equity, United Way strengthens its impact and helps build a more welcoming community for all.
Uniting Greater Atlanta since 1905
From our beginnings as Associated Charities of Atlanta to modern-day initiatives like the United for Racial Equity & Healing Fund, we have spent 120 years—and counting—working at the heart of the Greater Atlanta community, driving change, and making a difference in the lives of millions.
We believe it takes a blend of different strengths, backgrounds and perspectives working collaboratively to meet big challenges and drive large-scale, long-lasting change.
Where Is United Way?
United Way of Greater Atlanta serves 13 counties across the metro Atlanta region. We work in partnership with local communities, nonprofit organizations, businesses, schools, and governments to understand needs and deliver solutions that create real, measurable impact.
