Currently, more than 40% of local households struggle to meet basic living expenses on a monthly basis. The United Way of Greater St. Louis is dedicated to building stronger and more equitable communities. The nonprofit works to unite people, resources and funding to meet the needs of a 16-county region in Missouri and Illinois. Each year, it provides assistance to more than one million people—meaning it touches the lives of one in every three people in the St. Louis community.
The local chapter of the United Way was founded in 1922 as the Community Fund. As the nonprofit continues into its second century of serving the community, its mission remains centered on uplifting those most in need. This year marks a major milestone as the organization is celebrating five years under the leadership of its president and CEO Michelle D. Tucker. “Our collective work continues, and this is only the beginning of our next chapter,” Tucker says. “Now, more than ever, we must unite to empower our most vulnerable, as the overall health and economic vitality of our community depend on it.”
During Tucker’s time with the United Way, she has been dedicated to evolving the landscape of philanthropy in St. Louis. She ensured that the organization could continue providing crucial services during the pandemic, helped raise and invest nearly $500 million in the community, and refreshed the nonprofit’s brand through new partnerships and unique campaigns. “We work diligently to have a multiplier effect on resources and efforts,” Tucker notes. “The United Way has been a beacon of hope for so many, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the St. Louis community.”
The United Way provides more than 160 local nonprofits with vital funding, training and resources. Its goal is to support the region in five impact areas: basic needs, health and wellbeing, jobs and financial mobility, youth success and crisis response. The nonprofit has invested nearly $3 billion in the region since its inception. “Sometimes, individuals and families just need a helping hand to navigate obstacles, and that support can be life-changing,” Tucker says.
The organization continues to use innovative initiatives to reshape its approach. Their new request for proposal (RFP) grant model offers enhanced flexibility in agency funding, the Community Information Exchange uses technology to transform the delivery of services, and United for Families provides individualized case management and emergency financial assistance. Tucker adds that the United Way plans to introduce additional data-driven initiatives to further inform community response efforts and deepen engagement with major donors as well as government and corporate partners.
On Sept. 10, the United Way will launch its annual community fundraising campaign during a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium. The initiative plays a critical role in sustaining essential services and programming. This year’s campaign is led by chairs Nina Leigh Krueger and Mike Dierberg, alongside vice chair Sisi Beltron. “It takes thousands coming together to make a meaningful difference,” Tucker says. “This campaign is a hallmark of our community and a leading example of the power of united impact.”
Working across a 16-county region in Missouri and Illinois, United Way of Greater St. Louis unites people, resources and funding to help build strong and equitable communities. Its annual community campaign begins next month and continues through year-end. Pictured on the cover: President and CEO Michelle D. Tucker. For more information, contact 314.421.0700 or visit helpingpeople.org.
Cover design by Julie Streiler
Photo by Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography
Pictured at top: President and CEO Michelle D. Tucker
Photo: Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography
