What does United Way do?
United Way works to ensure every individual in every community has the opportunity to thrive. We maximize the impact of collective community donations and provide operational and programmatic support and expertise to nonprofits on the frontlines of delivering essential services. We have fulfilled this mission for more than 100 years with the support of business organizations, nonprofit agencies, government, community leaders, volunteers, and caring donors.
Want to know more? Read more about United Way's work.
Want to see United Way’s impact in action? Read their impact report and/or subscribe to their newsletter.
How does United Way raise money?
We are fortunate to operate in a caring and generous region. Our average donor provides $2 a week. We are also extremely fortunate to have generous individual donors. We take our fiduciary responsibilities very seriously and work hard to maximize the impact of every donation we receive.
Why should I give to United Way?
United Way delivers impact at scale by leveraging the power of collective donations to support a powerful network of interconnected local nonprofits and services. Even small donations have a significant impact when combined with other donations. A gift to United Way supports a network of over 1,100 nonprofits across our six-county region, helping individuals access food, housing, health care, out-of-school support, careers, and more.
How do you determine which nonprofits receive funding?
The nonprofits we support touch the lives of one of three of our neighbors, but the needs of our community are beyond the reach of any single organization. We have to make difficult decisions informed by data on community needs and a rigorous assessment of potential nonprofit partners, with a strong focus on their ability to meet those needs. Our impact largely depends on our ability to adapt to evolving community needs. In keeping with that goal, we recently revised our funding model in our 2025 funding cycle to offer single-year grants in addition to our traditional three-year grants.
We will continue to offer a full suite of services and resources to our nonprofit community, including donor designation, Volunteer United, ROC the Day, and Day of Caring.
Does my donation stay in my community?
Yes. All donations to the United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes stay in our region.
If I have a favorite nonprofit, can I donate to them through United Way?
Yes. We have two ways to donate directly to your favorite organization: our giving event, ROC the Day, and our donor designation program. 100% of your donation goes to the requested recipient.
Learn more about how your favorite nonprofit can engage with ROC the Day or donor designation.
I don’t have a lot to give. Can I make an impact?
Absolutely. United Way’s average donor is $2 a week, which can help a struggling student get after-school help or provide desperately needed transportation for older adults struggling to get to medical appointments. Your donation has even more impact when combined with other donations.
How is United Way addressing the issue of systemic racism in our region?
The entire team at United Way is deeply committed to their mission, to mobilize the goodwill and resources of the community so everyone can thrive. United Way believes that working to eradicate systemic and structural racism is a key part of this role. Learn more about United Way's commitment to equity.
How can I volunteer?
We welcome in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities. Learn more about United Way's volunteer opportunities.
How can I get United Way support for my nonprofit?
United Way has a range of grant opportunities and resources available for nonprofits. Learn more about our resources for nonprofits.