120 Years of Serving Greater Atlanta
For 120 years, we have supported the Greater Atlanta community, ensuring that the most vulnerable Atlantans can access vital services to help them thrive.
Explore our 120-year journey
1905 – United Way is Born
Joseph Logan Leads the Way
After a snowstorm, 27-year-old Joseph rallied his community to support families in need, founding what would become United Way of Greater Atlanta.
1923 – United for Good
United For Good
In the early days, we used a centralized "community chest" fundraising model to unite nonprofits and tackle Atlanta's biggest problems.
1932 – Strength in Crisis
Strength in Crisis
As the Great Depression threatened Atlanta's economy, we stepped up to mobilize resources and partnered with companies like The Coca-Cola to make sure city workers got paid.
1997 – Help at Your Fingertips
Help at Your Fingertips
United Way of Greater Atlanta launched the first 211 Contact Center, a 24/7 referral service that serves as a national model for connecting people to help.
2003 – Fighting Homelessness
Fighting Homelessness
Partnering with Mayor Shirley Franklin, United Way of Greater Atlanta launched the Regional Commission on Homelessness and Gateway Center to create a central care hub for the unhoused community.
2010 – Relief in Recession
Relief in Recession
During the recession, United Way partnered with the Georgia Department of Human Services to process 17,000 applications and distribute $20.2 million in statewide federal relief in 100 days
2017 – Bright Futures for Kids
Bright Futures for Kids
United Way of Greater Atlanta introduced a groundbreaking tool to address disparities in youth success and improve children's lives across Atlanta.
2020 – Rapid Response to Crisis
Rapidly Responding in Times of Need
In 2020, United Way and Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta quickly expanded 211, launched relief programs, and raised and distributed $28 million in response to urgent needs in our city.
HOW WE'RE BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE
At United Way of Greater Atlanta, we envision a future where every child can achieve their dreams.
Calculate your impact
Every donation, no matter the amount, has the power to transform lives. See what your contribution to United Way of Greater Atlanta's Child Well-Being Mission Fund can do:
$10/month
Helps someone with transportation, ensuring they can get to work, school, or necessary appointments.
$25/month
Delivers books and baby essentials to new parents, setting their child up for early learning success.
$50/month
Provides one-on-one coaching to five families, helping them repair credit and build financial stability.
$100/month
Funds two months of tutoring sessions for a child, enhancing their academic performance and confidence.
$10 today
Provides a hygiene kit with essentials like soap, toothpaste, and deodorant for a family in need.
$25 today
Fills a grocery cart with a week’s worth of food for a struggling family.
$50 today
Helps a student apply for financial aid, unlocking opportunities for college and a brighter future.
$100 today
Covers a month of safe, nurturing early learning for a baby, giving parents the ability to work while their child thrives.
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