United Way History
The Birth of Coordinated Giving, 1887-1939Urbanization and industrialization grew rapidly in this period of American history, and human needs began to outpace the ability of friends and neighbors to meet them, culminating in the Great Depression. Precursors to United Way such as Denver’s Charity Organization Society and local War Chests across America formed to meet those needs in a coordinated fashion by raising and distributing funds, assessing community need, advising relief agencies and ensuring financial efficiency. In 1919, the Community Chest of Greater New Haven was founded.
The Growth of a Movement, 1940-1975World War II and the postwar era saw the growth of United Way’s formal relationships with large companies, unions and local and national government. The introduction of payroll deduction made giving more convenient and financially feasible for the average American worker and United Ways took advantage of their increased national presence by running national media campaigns, while still retaining a local focus. In 1952, the New Haven Community Chest evolved into the United Fund of Greater New Haven, which in 1971 merged with the Community Council to form today’s United Way of Greater New Haven.
Adapting to Increase Community Impact, 1976-2006As the U.S. began to shift from an industrial economy to a service economy, United Way became a field of professional practice, with training and development in core areas of business, programs such as National Corporate Leadership, 2-1-1 infoline and a partnership with the National Football League were developed, As the Internet became an increasingly important communication tool, United Way established its presence online. In Greater New Haven, United Way increased community participation in our grant-making process and established priority areas to more effectively target community needs.
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