What We Do At United Way NCA
The United Way Mission for Equity
United Way of the National Capital Area leads impactful community initiatives that create hope, respect, and equal opportunity for everyone in Washington, DC, and surrounding counties. Learn more about how our programs are making a difference in the lives of local residents.
United Way is creating a more equitable future through powerful community initiatives
How do we get there? By Living United. By forging unlikely partnerships. Finding new solutions to old problems. Mobilizing the best resources. Inspiring individuals to tackle their most daunting social crises. And by making strategic investments that produce lasting results. Donate or volunteer today and support our work. Learn more about how we support our community through our impact stories, or check out the statistics below to see how we help through our ALICE initiative.
Of Washington, DC students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch
Only 50% of adults with mental illness in Virginia receive any form of treatment
In Washington, DC African-Americans make up 87% of the population experiencing homelessness
United Way NCA’s Commitment to Community Initiatives
United Way NCA’s community initiatives focus on three core areas that impact equity in our region: health, education, and economic opportunity. These pillars guide the programs we develop to serve individuals and families across the National Capital Area.
Where does United Way NCA make a Difference?
United Way NCA leads community programs across the region, providing support as both a DC-based nonprofit and a provider of Maryland nonprofit initiatives. As one of the most active nonprofit organizations in the DMV, we offer support to residents through local health, education, and economic initiatives in the National Capital Area, including:
Washington, DC
- Washington, DC
Maryland
- Montgomery County, MD
- Prince George’s County, MD
Virginia
- Alexandria City, VA
- Arlington, VA
- Culpeper County, VA
- Fairfax County, VA
- Fauquier County, VA
- Loudoun County, VA
- Prince William County, VA
- Rappahannock County, VA
What can you do to aid in United Ways mission?
United Way of the National Capital Area is dedicated to creating a more equitable and thriving community for all. Your support is vital to the success of our community initiatives. Here are some ways you can contribute:
- Donate: Make a financial contribution to support United Way’s programs and initiatives.
- Volunteer: Dedicate your time and skills by volunteering with United Way.
- Advocate: Speak out and advocate for issues that matter to you and your community.
- Corporate Citizenship: Explore opportunities for corporate support of United Way.
- Join a group: Become a part of a United Way NCA Affinity Group or Regional Council to access exclusive networking events, volunteer activities, and advocacy opportunities.
Your involvement, whether through donations, volunteering, advocacy, or spreading awareness, makes a meaningful difference in advancing United Way’s mission. Together, we can create lasting change and build a stronger, more resilient community for everyone.
Community & Equity Initiatives at United Way NCA
United Way NCA is dedicated to creating lasting change through community and equity initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by individuals and families across the National Capital Area. Our work focuses on removing barriers and providing targeted support in three critical areas: health, education, and economic opportunity.
These initiatives are designed to:
- Reduce health disparities and improve access to care
- Empower young people to overcome academic and social challenges
- Increase financial stability and economic mobility for underserved populations
By focusing on equity, we ensure that everyone—regardless of race, income, or background—has the opportunity to thrive. Through partnerships, strategic investments, and community-driven programs, we strive to build a stronger, more inclusive region for all.
United Way NCA Community Programs
Health
Explore all United Way NCA community health programs:
Education
Explore all United NCA community education programs:
Economic Opportunity
Explore all United NCA community economic opportunity programs:
How Does United Way NCA Make a Difference?
At United Way NCA, we’re committed to improving lives across the National Capital Area. We focus on the often-overlooked ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population—individuals and families who work hard but still struggle to afford basic needs. Click here for more information on what United Way does.
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Open in new tab United Way NCA Frequently Asked Questions
United Way NCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health, education, and economic opportunity of individuals and families in the National Capital Area.
You can get involved with United Way NCA by donating, volunteering, participating in advocacy efforts, joining affinity groups or regional councils, and spreading awareness about their mission.
United Way NCA champions equity through a number of initiatives. Such as funding targeted programs, advocating for inclusive policies, fostering community partnerships, conducting data-driven research, and providing capacity-building support to organizations addressing equity issues.
United Way ensures that 85 cents of every dollar donated directly supports its mission. Overhead rates may vary among local United Way chapters, but across the U.S., the network-wide overhead rate stands at 14.5%, significantly lower than industry norms.