What does United Way do?

Your donation to United Way of Southeastern Connecticut is invested in a vital network of local health and human service programs and initiatives that work together to provide a safety net of services that create real, lasting change in New London County.

Supported programs and initiatives all make an impact in four key areas of impact:

• Basic Needs;
• Community Wellness;
• Promoting Independence; and
• Thriving Children.

How do we do it?

After the funds are raised each year, community volunteers go to work determining where to invest your donation. These volunteers are recruited throughout the community, representing people from all walks of life that live and work in New London County. Anyone from the community is invited to volunteer and get involved with our fund distribution.

Allocations volunteers spend countless hours reviewing each funded program, including visits to each program, interviews with agency personnel and board members, analysis of budgets and audits, review of the total number of clients served, and evaluation of the overall effectiveness of each program. Together with United Way staff, volunteers decide how the funds are invested in local programs that get results, help people, and improve community conditions.  

Does United Way operate its own programs? 

Yes, throughout the years and through the voice of the community, United Way recognized pressing needs that had to be fulfilled within our community. We fund and operate programs including the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center and Project Warm-up.  

We also work within the community on a federal and state level to bring together partners for the betterment of southeastern Connecticut such as the New London County Fund to End Homelessness, New Capacities, and the Eastern Connecticut Health Collaborative. Read more about these programs and more below.