We connect and mobilize the caring power of our local communities to advance the common good.

We solve problems, not just symptoms – There are often several factors that lead to people needing community services. United Way looks deeper to address all the factors that lead to need, thereby ensuring a more permanent solution.

We promote collaboration among helping organizations – There is no one single answer to addressing the need for social services. United Way identifies where needs exist and mobilizes the right resources to best address each situation. As a recognized convener in the region, we have mobilized to address redundant referral networks and supported coalitions to tackle tough community issues.

We are the voice for the unheard – Despite the breadth of social services offered in Northwest Michigan, people still struggle to find the help they need. We work to find and fill those gaps on an ongoing basis.

We ask and answer the tough questions – At United Way; we ask “Who aren’t we serving?” rather than “Who are we serving?”- a critical point that leads to addressing needs on a more effective project/program basis rather than an agency basis.

We maximize the impact of every donation – With every dollar donated; we leverage our resources to increase that donation’s value to the community. Last year alone, each dollar donated resulted in $4.60 in value of services back to the community.

At United Way of Northwest Michigan, we strive to: set an example by respecting differences and treating everyone fairly; demonstrate that all viewpoints matter and everyone has an opportunity to contribute; make our staff, volunteers and stakeholders feel like their contributions make a difference and recognize their achievements; and, be objective and avoid making decisions based on personal feelings, unconscious biases and preferences.