
About us
We love where we live. It’s this local love that fuels our efforts to tackle even the toughest social issues.
It’s what compels us to find lasting solutions to the complex challenges that make life difficult for our communities’ most vulnerable people.
A clear mission and vision guide our work, as well as a commitment to 100% local impact.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to bring people and resources together to build strong, healthy, safe communities for all.
OUR VISION
Our vision is that the communities we serve are measurably better because of the work of United Way East Ontario and others.
OUR PROMISE
Our promise is that we will invest resources where they are needed most and where they will have the greatest impact.
Alongside a vast network of supporters and partners, we strive to break down barriers and improve the communities we serve. We are committed to making measurable, lasting change across our region today, and tomorrow.
Our Communities

Region-wide force
Poverty. Isolation. Homelessness. These issues aren’t limited by geography—they affect the well-being of our entire region. This is why, in 2017, the four United Ways of Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark and Renfrew Counties decided to join forces.
Today, we operate as one entity: United Way East Ontario. Our goal is to deliver even greater impact in the communities where we live, work, and play. Together, we are a formidable force for good—with the power to leverage our regional footprint and drive change on a larger scale than ever before.
Transforming local lives
At United Way East Ontario, we’re committed to 100% local impact. That means every dollar we invest stays in the community where it was raised—where it is needed most and will have the greatest impact.
See the important work we’re doing to strengthen communities across our region.
Local love, in action
Every day, communities depend on us to break down barriers, improve lives, and create opportunities for the people who need us most. Storytelling is a huge part of how we show our supporters the tangible difference their donations make in the lives of real, local people.
Take a look at our latest news, impact stories, donor spotlights, and more.

Getting Ahead creates a positive path out of poverty
With the help of United Way East Ontario, the Adult Learning & Training Centre in Smiths Falls gives individuals the skills, tools and resources they need to get their lives back on track.

Project step supports youth in the face of spike in poor mental health
The Ontario Student Drug Use and Health survey shows that the number of young people in Ottawa reporting poor or fair mental health has doubled since before the pandemic, and many young people are using drugs and alcohol to cope. Fortunately, project step promotes mental health and substance use health, and reduces harms related to substance use and addictions.

Three years into COVID-19, we’re focused on long-term recovery and stability
In the face of increased needs, United Way continues to respond to pandemic-related issues while ensuring local social services are strong over the long term.

More people turning to 211 as needs continue to rise
Demand for social, food, housing, community and government services is at an all-time high as folks struggle to deal with rising costs, and 211 is here to help connect them with what they need.

Ontario United Ways 2023 Pre-Budget Submission to the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs
Ontario United Ways present four recommendations in a pre-budget submission to build the foundation for equitable prosperity in Ontario.

Preventing suicide with creativity and collaboration
With the help of United Way, community organizations are pursuing new, collaborative ways to prevent suicide in Ottawa.

We bring people together to identify, develop and provide solutions to local issues. See where your dollars are going.

We’re committed to operational efficiency, transparency and accountability. Take a look at our annual report and financial statements to learn more.

Meet our dedicated Board of Directors and United Way East Ontario leadership team responsible for guiding our organization.
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Careers
Become a Member
By coming together in a common cause, we’re improving lives across our region.
Get Involved
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us, and someone from our team will gladly assist you.