United Way Worldwide is the international support organization for hundreds of independent local United Way organizations throughout the world. Local United Ways are fund-raising associations that help finance community service organizations and charities. The international association provides local United Ways with programs, services, and materials in such areas as government relations, labor relations, communications, and data gathering. It collects dues from local United Ways.
Local United Ways raise funds primarily through giving campaigns in workplaces. They rely heavily on volunteers to run such campaigns. United Way Worldwide also receives large donations from charitable foundations. These funds help thousands of charitable organizations, including local units of the Salvation Army and other groups. United Ways also give financial aid to crisis hotlines, programs for abused women, scouting organizations, and day-care centers.
The Charity Organizations Society, the first United Way, was founded in Denver in 1887. A national office was established in 1918 as the American Association for Community Organizations. It became known as United Way of America in 1970. A worldwide organization called United Way International was established in 1974.
In 1995, top officials of the United Way of America were accused of misusing United Way funds by drawing high salaries and spending funds lavishly. The three officials were sentenced to jail. United Way of America appointed new leadership, increased the representation of local United Ways on its advisory board, and adopted strict financial controls and ethical codes.
In 2009, United Way of America and United Way International combined to form United Way Worldwide. The organization’s international headquarters are in Alexandria, Virginia.
