Our Mission in Northwest Illinois
United Way of Northwest Illinois brings people, nonprofits, businesses and community leaders together to improve lives across Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties.
Mobilizing Our Communities So Everyone Can Thrive
For more than 75 years, United Way of Northwest Illinois has worked with local residents and partner organizations to understand community needs and build practical solutions. We connect resources, invest in programs, encourage volunteer service and help people find support when they need it.
Our goal is a stronger, healthier and more financially secure Northwest Illinois where children can succeed, families can build stability and neighbors can access essential services.
Our Community Impact Priorities
UWNI focuses local partnerships and resources on four connected areas that influence quality of life throughout the region.
Education and Early Learning
We support early learning, literacy, kindergarten readiness and opportunities that help children and young people build a strong foundation for school and life.
Financial Stability
We work with community partners to reduce barriers to employment, strengthen household stability and connect working families with tools and services that support long-term financial security.
Health and Well-Being
We invest in efforts that support physical health, mental health, healthy development and access to services that help people manage challenges and improve their quality of life.
Basic Needs
When people face an urgent setback, food, safe housing and other essential services can provide immediate stability and create room to work toward longer-term goals.
How United Way Creates Local Impact
Community challenges are connected, so lasting progress requires more than one organization or one program. United Way serves as a local convener and resource partner.
Listen to Local Needs
We learn from residents, service providers, volunteers and community leaders about changing needs and gaps in support.
Bring Partners Together
We connect nonprofits, workplaces, public agencies and community members around shared goals and coordinated solutions.
Invest Local Resources
Community volunteers help review funding requests so local donations can support programs aligned with demonstrated needs and measurable outcomes.
Measure and Improve
Funded partners report on services and outcomes, helping United Way monitor progress, strengthen accountability and improve future investments.
Serving Three Northwest Illinois Counties
United Way of Northwest Illinois is locally governed and works across urban, small-town and rural communities. Programs and partnerships may vary by location, but our regional mission includes residents of:
Need Help Finding Local Resources?
211 is a free, confidential service that helps people find local support for food, housing, utilities, health care, childcare, transportation and other needs.
Call 211 or use the online resource directory to search for services available in your area.
Find Help Through 211
Ways to Support Our Mission
Donate Locally
Your gift helps support a network of programs and coordinated solutions serving children, families and neighbors across Northwest Illinois.
Volunteer
Share your time and skills through community projects, local initiatives, Days of Action and opportunities with partner organizations.
Partner With United Way
Workplaces and nonprofit organizations can collaborate with UWNI through campaigns, community initiatives and eligible funding partnerships.
Learn About Local Impact
See how programs, volunteers and community investments are addressing needs throughout Stephenson, Jo Daviess and Carroll Counties.
Help Build a Stronger Northwest Illinois
When local people and organizations work together, our communities can respond to immediate needs while creating opportunities for lasting stability.