Our Impact
together we change lives
United Way improves lives and community conditions throughout Central Alabama by addressing specific areas of need through donor support, state and federal grants, key partnerships, coalitions, strategic planning and our own ongoing community service programs.
To live better, we must LIVE UNITED
Impacting You and Our
Community Every Day
When you give to United Way of Central Alabama, your gift is combined with thousands of others to address people’s immediate needs and improve long-term quality of life for everyone in our community.
With more than 200 partners and programs, United Way provides a massive network of services in Central Alabama.
funded partners and programs
services delivered within our 6 counties
Key Outcomes for 2025
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Community Health & Wellbeing
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Hunger Relief
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Early Childhood Development & Education
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Youth Health & Wellness
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Youth Support & After-School Programs
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Crisis Response & Resource Support
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Senior Support
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Homelessness Prevention & Housing
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Financial Stability & Career Development
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Mental Health
Key Outcomes for 2025
Community Health & Wellbeing
We help people stay healthy by improving access to nutritious food, physical activity, quality healthcare — including maternal and mental health support — safe neighborhoods and more.
Learn MoreClients received health, medical or nutrition-related services
Hunger Relief
No one should go hungry, yet food insecurity is a widespread problem. United Way works to eliminate hunger through local foodbanks, summer feeding programs and meal deliveries.
Learn MoreMeals were distributed to individuals and families in need
Early Childhood Development & Education
Ninety percent of brain development occurs during a child’s first five years of life, so we offer resources and pre-K programs ensuring children have the best chance to succeed.
Learn Morechildren ages 5 and under received early education or development services
Youth Health & Wellness
Supporting the social-emotional and physical health of our youth is a top priority of United Way. We provide health screenings, physical activities and more to help our youth grow stronger.
Learn Moreyouth participated in social-emotional learning programs
Youth Support & After-School Programs
United Way offers many after-school and mentoring programs for youth in Central Alabama that improve academic performance and help prepare them for college, careers and life
Learn Moreyouth participated in academic/career support or after school programs
Crisis Response & Resource Support
United Way connects individuals to resources for support and safety in times of need or crisis. Some examples include housing assistance, disaster support and crisis intervention.
Learn Moreindividuals were connected to vital resources through our partners and call centers
Senior Support
United Way is dedicated to meeting the needs of seniors and those with disabilities. Our highly focused programs, services and partners help seniors live healthier, more fulfilled lives.
Learn Moreseniors received vital support services such as meals, respite care and more
Homelessness Prevention & Housing
United Way offers one-on-one assistance to locate permanent housing and resources, helping people gain the knowledge and skills to remain financially stable.
Learn Moreveterans, families and individuals received shelter and other stability services
Financial Stability & Career Development
People’s financial stability is fundamental to a strong, vibrant community. We provide access to resources and programs to help individuals and families become financially stable
Learn Moreindividuals received financial counseling, job-relevant skill training and more
Mental Health
One in four people is affected by a mental illness. Mental health is one of the top concerns affecting families. United Way programs include counseling, mental health screenings and more.
Learn Moreindividuals received mental health services such as crisis counseling and intervention
Get Involved
join a leadership society
Our leadership societies make it easy for you and your family to get involved and make a difference in Central Alabama
volunteer
We make a difference, but we don’t do it alone — change doesn’t happen without you. Join us today and make a lasting impact on the community.
run a workplace campaign
Our endeavors are possible because of the volunteers, donors and people like you who LIVE UNITED by being champions for our work.
Latest News & Stories
Independence Is Everything: Meals on Wheels Helps Make It Possible
At 88 years old, Margaret Mitchell has spent her entire life in Birmingham. She raised four children, worked in the
Thanks to Meals on Wheels, Cleo Jones Has More Time for What He Enjoys
When knee surgery made everyday tasks more difficult, Cleo Jones began looking for ways to make life a little easier.
Community Needs Hit Home for Cynthia Todd
For Cynthia Todd, serving others is more than a volunteer commitment—it’s a way of life. From her time as a United Way Loaned Executive to her current role as Co-Chair of United Way of Central Alabama’s Shelby County Advisory Board, Cynthia has dedicated herself to helping connect people with the resources they need to thrive. Her journey with United Way is deeply personal, shaped by both her own experiences receiving support and her passion for strengthening communities across Shelby County.