What We Do
United Way Waterloo Region Communities is dedicated to helping people live better lives in every one of the seven communities we serve. We are fundraisers who support a network of agencies whose programs and services are locally focused, informed, connected, and deeply invested in helping people reach their full potential.
United Way Waterloo Region Communities is dedicated to helping people live better lives in every one of the seven communities we serve. We are also the largest funder of social programs in Waterloo Region, second only to government. We are locally focused, informed, connected, and deeply invested in helping people reach their full potential in the seven communities that comprise Waterloo Region: Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Wilmot, Woolwich, Wellesley and North Dumfries.
We are fundraisers who engage and mobilize the community around grassroots causes. The funds we raise support a network of agencies whose programs and services deliver community-wide benefits. Our investments include everything from emergency food and shelter services that meet people’s basic needs; to counselling and harm reduction programs that help people live healthier lives; to after-school and mentorship activities that give vulnerable young people a chance at a better future.
Impact Strategies
Vulnerable Children & Youth
Why is this important? 1 in 10 Waterloo Region youth in their early 20’s have not completed high school. 1 in 5 doesn’t feel connected to their community.
Did you know? United Way invests in strategies which allow people the time and opportunity to build or enhance their social and educational skills. Peer mentoring, counselling, and education all play a vital role in strengthening young people.
Poverty
Why is this important? 1 in 10 households in the region regularly find it difficult to put enough food on the table. 50% of families with kindergarten-aged children have no extra money each month for the little things which can often brighten a childhood.
Did you know? United Way works with numerous partners to develop a strategy where people can get the most out of their situation. We’re finding ways to enable everyone to develop skills like financial awareness and literacy, so that they can meet basic needs at home and fully participate in their place of work, volunteering, or the broader community.
Neighbourhoods
Why is this important? 40% of Waterloo Region residents feel no particular connection to the area in which they live, work, and play. 1 out of 3 families with kindergarten-aged children say they don’t know their neighbours well enough to look out for each other’s kids.
Did you know? Working at the grassroots level, United Way is bringing neighbours together for a common cause. Building on the strengths and skills of community members, residents can build thriving communities where people are connected and can contribute meaningfully. Through these efforts we work on a larger scale, expanding from streets, to blocks, to cities, building a population which truly works together for the common good.
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More than 186,000 people across Waterloo Region communities access United Way supported services. That’s almost half the population! If you are in need of assistance or looking to connect with a local community agency, we hope the resources below will be helpful.