Our Work

The United Way of Central Missouri is a local, volunteer-driven organization that improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community.

United Way of Central Missouri envisions a community where all individuals and families achieve their human potential through education, income stability, and healthy lives.

United Way of Central Missouri believes the foundation of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion starts with respect. Our goal is to mobilize the caring power of our communities to advance the common good and help people live their best possible lives. We envision inclusive, resilient and equitable communities. We unequivocally denounce all forms of discrimination because it undermines the well-being and vitality of our communities. We work to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has the resources, opportunities and networks they need to thrive.  We must be a leader in the fight.

We respect the visible and invisible qualities that make you who you are.

We respect that every person brings a unique perspective and experience to advance our mission to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in every community.

We respect that each United Way community member, donor, volunteer, advocate, and employee must have equal access to solving community problems.

We respect and include diversity, equity and inclusion practices at the center of our daily work.

We respect and engage all community members, especially those whose voices have traditionally been marginalized.

Join us in the fight. We have one Life to Live. To Live Better, we must LIVE UNITED.

Integrity

We resolve to maintain the highest standards of personal and organizational honesty in all our activities.

Accountability

We are responsive to our stakeholders, at all levels, and act as good stewards of their investments of time and resources.

Responsibility

We are compelled to advocate for positive social change in the communities we serve.

Leadership

We spearhead efforts to build a better life for all and create a stronger Central Missouri.

Collaboration

We join with individuals, groups and businesses in our communities to work together toward common goals.

Inclusivity

We involve and unite the local community, knowing that respect, diversity and inclusiveness make us stronger.

Commitment

We are devoted to serving individuals and families in our communities in the most efficient and innovative manner.

Intentionality

We strive to deliver relevant services and quality outcomes through thoughtful, deliberate actions.

We began as a part-time committee of the now Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce in 1925. We split from the Chamber and became known as the Jefferson City Community Chest in the late 1920's. Nationally, the Community Chest had its beginnings in the late 1880’s when Denver businesses expressed exasperation at the difficulty in deciding which charities and agencies to support. Community Chest groups around the nation solved that problem by holding single campaigns for groups of local agencies – similar to how the United Way operates its fundraising today.