UNITED IS THE WAY

Every day, over 1.4 million people in our region struggle to afford essentials like housing, food, and health care. This is the reality of ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households—more than 500,000 working families who face tough choices despite their efforts.
United Way NCA’s ALICE Lives Here initiative addresses these issues of inequity to build a community where everyone can thrive.

Upcoming Annual Events

At United Way NCA, we deliver and manage evidence-based programs that are designed and implemented through an equity lens. These programs are based on community wants and needs, and they achieve measurable and meaningful outcomes for which we can all be proud. Learn more about our programs and how you can get involved in helping us build a more equitable National Capital Area. Then, sign up for our volunteering platform today to stay engaged.

What We Do

When none are ignored, all will thrive.

United Way of the National Capital Area improves the health, education and economic opportunity of every person in our community, regardless of race, gender, income or ability. We are committed to reducing disparities and inequities in our region by mobilizing all sectors of the community to create a more equitable future for all.
Join the movement!

2,054

Community Commitment

From 2021 to 2024, we convened over 2,054 volunteers and 400 providers to bring 2,591 of our ALICE neighbors much-needed resources through our Project Community Connect.

13,893

Health

From 2021 to 2024, we served 13,893 students and families through an integrated approach to health and wellness.

39,167

Education

From 2021 to 2024, we supported 39,167 low-income middle and high school students in performing at or above grade level through our Title I Community Schools across the region.

161,684

Economic Opportunity

From 2021 to 2024, 161,684 area residents received free financial and tax services resulting in nearly $132 million in tax refunds.

ALICE Reports

ALICE, a United Way acronym that stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, represents the growing number of individuals and families who are working but are unable to afford the basic necessities. We use these reports as the framework for our work in creating equity.

UNITED WAY NCA PROGRAMS

Our Focus

Health

We provide health resources to those who need it most, promoting physical and mental well-being by removing systemic barriers to food security, physical exercise and healthy eating, and mental health education and services.

Education

We focus on the education pipeline from middle school to college and/or career success. Working in Title I schools, we address attendance, behavior and course performance through our Community Schools program.

Economic Opportunity

We provide residents with economic opportunity and remove barriers to stable and affordable housing through our Financial Empowerment Centers, helping individuals take control of their finances. From tax assistance in DC to opening bank accounts, we’re here for our community.

Take Action

Give. Advocate. Volunteer.

Give

Your donation goes to community programs and initiatives that need it most, providing young people with academic and social support, training adults for jobs that pay a family-sustaining income and connecting people in need to medical care, housing and other basic support.

Advocate

Raise your voice and take action! Spread the word about our life-changing work and share your story with others about why you support United Way NCA.

Volunteer

Whether it’s for an hour, a day, once a week or monthly, you can create tremendous impact in our community by participating in our in-person and virtual volunteer events.

Our Stories

See our impact through the stories of lives we’ve touched.

Zenani Russell – From Struggle to Stability

In the midst of financial strain, increased costs of living and the undeniable challenge of being a single mother, Zenani Russell found herself struggling to meet the overwhelming demands of daily bills and necessities.

Kavonnie Hines – From Struggle to Stability

Kavonnie faces the unique challenge of being a single mother of three and raising a child with special needs. She currently works part-time as a Starbucks manager in Arlington, VA to keep her family afloat while navigating a complex web of red tape.

Thrive United 365 and Sentara Healthcare Address Healthcare Access in Northern Virginia

Better health means a better life. That’s why United Way of the National Capital Area is improving health access and resources in our communities to reach equity for all.

Give With Confidence

United Way NCA is highly rated for both management and transparency.