History

 

History of United Way Worldwide

The United Way model dates back to 1913 when it was called the “Community Chest.” A relationship developed with the business community where United Way representatives were invited into the workplace to raise philanthropic dollars through payroll deduction. Funds were then allocated to partner organizations in the community. 
 

History of United Way of Windham County

United Way of Windham County is proudly part of the United Way family. United Way Worldwide serves as a parent organization that sets standards, training, technical support and research. However, United Way of Windham County works to achieve its own strategic initiatives, governed and directed by a local and autonomous board of directors.
 

In Windham County, a United Way opened in 1958. The campaign committee was active in building a strong workplace campaign and the organization followed the original United Way model of supporting local partner agencies through  grants. 
 
Beginning in 2001, United Way of Windham County began transitioning to a Community Impact model. Historically, United Ways worked as a provider of agency funds, asking the question, “What does the agency need?” By transitioning to the Community Impact model, United Way of Windham County asks the question, “What does the community need and how do we best meet that need?”
 
United Way of Windham County works with a variety of community partners, including businesses, human service providers and individuals, to improve lives and meet community needs. With this extensive network, United Way of Windham County is uniquely positioned to identify gaps in services and to address them through internal initiatives and with partner programs.