United Way of East Central Iowa strives to break the cycle of poverty and create stronger communities. We focus on education, financial stability, and health because they are essential for living well. By addressing the root causes of issues, we create innovative solutions to make real change.
Our organization began in Cedar Rapids in 1914 as the "United Charities Campaign," a program of the Chamber of Commerce. It was a "one-day only" campaign that raised $21,000 on behalf of four agencies. Since its inception, the organization has had several different names and experienced numerous structural changes that have allowed it to grow to continue to meet the needs and challenges of our area and the people we serve.
