Who We Are
The United Way of Northern California (UWNC) was started in 1953 by a group of volunteers who wanted to make a difference in their community. Today, we’re a leading nonprofit that works to help Northern California residents build better lives. We do this by running and supporting programs focusing on the building blocks of a good life – health, education, housing, and financial stability. Our team is here for individuals and the community during public emergencies, disasters, or other crises. We collaborate with other organizations in everything we do. Because of this, we have the strength and backing to take on complex issues. We believe in running toward the difficult problems facing our communities, rather than running away from them. We proudly serve a nine-county region that includes: Butte, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Plumas, Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama, and Trinity.
We are part of the world’s largest philanthropic network, raising around $5 billion annually, with deep and enduring relationships across government, business, and nonprofit sectors. United Way is engaged in nearly 1,800 communities across more than 40 countries and territories worldwide. UWNC is one of approximately 1,200 local United Ways in the United States, with another 600 local United Ways worldwide. Each local branch operates autonomously; all decisions about how money is raised and spent in each community are made by the local board of directors.
Our Mission and Vision
Our mission is to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in our community and to be there for the community and its residents during times of crisis.
Our vision is to enhance the quality of life in our community by mobilizing the desire and capacity of people to care for one another.
Our Commitment to Antiracism
UWNC stands firmly against racism. We promote equity in our mission to improve health, education, financial wellness, and disaster recovery for ALL people in Northern California. Please read our complete Antiracism Statement below.
Recent Accomplishments
- Distributed more than $12 million to ~10.000 survivors of the 2018-2021 fire seasons
- Invested nearly $1 million into COVID-19 response in the North State
- UWNC’s 2022 Community Impact Grants invested $50,000 in organizations to support wildfire mitigation and drought preparedness within its nine-county service area
- Served as the primary organizer for Project Homeless Connect in 2022, serving ~400 guests and 80 of their animal companions
- VITA, Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, saved clients ~$129,300 in 2021
- The 2-1-1 24/7 helpline answered 15,339 calls in Shasta & Tehama counties in 2020-2021
- Doordash food pantry delivery program made 4,288 deliveries in 2020-2021
Nonprofit Standing
United Way of Northern California is a registered 501c3 nonprofit. We are committed to operating ethically and transparently in everything we do. View our most recent audited financial report and recent tax filing (IRS Form 990*).