United Way of the Ozarks

United Way of the Ozarks is our community’s unifying force.

Our role is to see our community’s big picture. We see its challenges, its resources – and the gap in between where needs go unmet.

For more than 90 years we have brought together individuals and organizations to go after our community’s toughest problems. Our ability to partner with every sector of society ensures a targeted approach to producing positive change.

Our service area covers 14 counties where we help our most vulnerable neighbors move toward self-sufficiency.

We invest in our community’s success.

At United Way of the Ozarks, we identify the reasons our disadvantaged neighbors are unable to stand on their own. And, then we invest in the programs and initiatives to tailor solutions that move them toward self-sufficiency. Through our collaborative network, we maximize assistance for individuals and families whose needs extend beyond a single organization’s reach and resources.

This comprehensive investment creates conditions – and opportunities – for their improved economic status. It creates a stronger community.

We construct pathways out of poverty.

United Way of the Ozarks is helping break the cycle of generational poverty. We are focusing on building pathways out of poverty to self-sufficiency. These efforts will result in:

– People getting jobs or earning better jobs.
– Helping students be ready for school.
– Individuals and families being healthier.

We are playing the long game. We know success will be achieved by going beyond single-issue solutions and temporary fixes. We are investing in the programs that prepare youth to succeed and move adults to stand on their own.

We champion our community’s children.

We have a responsibility to build a stronger community. And that starts with ensuring our most vulnerable citizens – our children ­– have access to food, shelter and healthcare. That they are ready for school. That they have an opportunity to achieve their full potential.

With the help of volunteers, advocates and donors, we champion the solutions we know change young lives for the better. And, promote the kind of development that resonates for generations to come.

We all have a stake in the success of our community’s children. They are our future.