United Way 101

Two women are taking notes at a conference.

Learn more about our organization and the work we do. We answered some of the most common questions you may want to know to further your understanding of United Way.

United Way of West Tennessee is a nonprofit organization in Jackson, Tennessee with an 84-year history of building a United and resilient community in 15 counties across West Tennessee. Our mission is mobilize communities to action so all can thrive.

Our key impact areas include improving health and well-being for all (healthy community); helping young people realize their full potential (youth opportunity); creating a strong financial future for every generation (financial stability), and addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow (community resiliency).

We serve 15 counties that are divided into northwest and southwest territories: Carroll, Chester, Crockett, Decatur, Dyer, Gibson, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Madison, McNairy, and Weakley.

Traditionally, we are known for fundraising on behalf of local service-based agencies (nonprofits) so they can focus on what they do best: serving their communities. We also partner with the community at large to remove barriers and develop solutions that further meet each person's needs. From distributing free books to children in rural neighborhoods, to offering financial workshops to help strengthen a community's financial health, we strive to address challenges that keep our region from flourishing.

2-1-1 is an emergency hotline you can dial or text to receive localized support. A 211 operator will answer the call and help connect you to available, county-specific resources within your area. In West Tennessee, this hotline operates from our Jackson office.

There are many ways you can support United Way. You can financially give to our organization, volunteer your service at one of our events, sponsor one of our programs/initiatives, and more. Our work would not be possible without the collective contribution of others. Whether you are a donor, volunteer, or advocate, your support matters. We invite you to join us as we continue to build a more resilient West Tennessee. United is the Way!