United Way of Southwest Michigan

Mission: To improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good.

United Way of Southwest Michigan has served the area since 1943 and is part of a national network of more than 1,300 locally governed organizations that work to create lasting positive changes in communities and peoples lives. Building on more than a century of service as the nations preeminent community-based fundraiser, United Way engages the community to identify the underlying causes of the most significant local issues, develops strategies and pulls together financial and human resources to address them, and measures the results.

United Way of Southwest Michigan works in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties to create a united & resilient community where everyone contributes, belongs, and thrives. We harness resources from corporate, nonprofit, and public partners to address our communitys most pressing challenges and make lasting change. Join us in giving, advocacy, and volunteering by visiting uwsm.org

We focus our local impact work on the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population. ALICE earns just above the Federal Poverty Level but less than what it costs to make ends meet. Most ALICE households are one crisis or life-changing event away from poverty. Specifically, we focus on the following impact areas within our communities to advance our mission:

• Basic Needs Investing in basic needs, such as food security, safe housing, and emergency financial assistance, is paramount for safeguarding individuals against unforeseen challenges and catastrophes.
• Education Investing in education, particularly for students below the ALICE threshold, is essential to fostering their long-term financial stability.
• Health By investing in initiatives that prioritize both physical and mental well-being, communities can enhance long-term financial stability by fostering healthier, more productive populations. Additionally, supporting households with incomes below the ALICE threshold is vital for building economic resilience.
• Financial Stability For households below the ALICE threshold, targeted support programs and resources are essential to provide pathways to financial stability, including access to education and job training. Addressing the root causes of financial insecurity among these households not only improves their quality of life but also strengthens the overall economic resilience of the community.