United Way of Charlotte County

**Our Story** **Transforming local lives through the power of philanthropy** United Way of Charlotte County brings together local agencies, corporations, donors, volunteers, and government to create lasting social change. Our work and our investments stay right here, supporting thousands of people every year. We strategically invest in, partner with, and mobilize local community partners to solve the most complex social issues. **Our Work** **THE ISSUE** Every day, people across our community struggle to build better lives for themselves and their families. These struggles are fueled by serious social and economic barriers which make getting ahead difficult and threaten the strong social fabric that is vital to individual, family, and community well-being. One singular issue does not lead someone to poverty or ALICE. There exists a connection to and need for quality education, stable, decent housing, a living wage job, reliable transportation, affordable child care, financial stability and access to quality health care. **THE RESPONSE** We prioritize support for agencies that are collaborating and incorporating an intergenerational approach to their work, which focuses on creating opportunities for and addressing needs of both children and the adults in their lives. Evidence-based programs and practices with outcomes that measure change over time will be emphasized. The promise of this comprehensive approach is economic security that passes from one generation to the next. Aging seniors, a large portion of the population of Charlotte County, require a multitude of services, so identifying the gaps and equipping our community with the capacity to serve this group is also crucial. **By mobilizing the power of our community partners, we are building a connected network of resources to be accessed when people need them most.** **Mission** Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty **Vision** A community where all citizens achieve their potential through education, financial stability, and healthy lives. **Values** **Integrity** Our actions will be honest, ethical and transparent. Our work and interactions will match our words. **Accountability** Our actions will be determined by best practice and transparency as we seek to earn the highest levels of trust with our stakeholders through our finances, governance, performance, and mission. **Partnership** Our actions will prioritize partnering with our stakeholders because we accomplish more when we work together, share resources and challenge each other to achieve the highest levels of performance. **Compassion** Our actions will be guided by respect and compassion as we serve our diverse community. **Excellence** Our actions will be determined by our ability to perform at our best.