United Way is one of the best ways to build strong communities and help people who are in need. It's a system based on the principle that united, we are stronger than we can ever be alone.

There are over 800 United Ways across the country. Each United Way is autonomous. Our United Way serves Towns of Lewiston, Niagara, Porter, Wheatfield, Villages of Lewiston and Youngstown, and the City of Niagara Falls. We are a volunteer-driven organization that raises and distributes funds for community needs. In our campaign, you can designate where your contribution will go. Given a choice, most contributors prefer to have people who really know the community helping to decide how their dollars will do the most good. At each United Way, experienced volunteers from all walks of life work to make sure your money is well spent. They select and monitor critical human care services that address the needs of their own communities -- agencies and programs that make a real difference in people's lives. Money given locally works locally.

You give to United Way, United Way funds a wide variety of programs and services, and these services help people in your community all year long.

And United Way isn't just a fund-raising organization. We work in close partnership with private businesses, governments and non-profits to pinpoint and address critical community issues. United Way builds and maintains human service support structures that create healthier and stronger communities.

United Ways are committed to keeping costs low, with much of the work being done by volunteers. That way, you can be sure that your money is being used efficiently and effectively -- that nearly all your contribution is getting to the people who need your help.

United Way works because of the generosity of people like you, who give their time and money to strengthen their community.

A 21 member volunteer board of directors, led by board chair Richard J. Witkowski, guides the strategic direction and policies of the organization. Carol G. Houwaart-Diez  president, manages the day to day operations.

Volunteer committees work with staff to produce positive results through our community. Hundreds volunteers participate on United Way committees and task forces. Thousands more give their time to the annual campaign, helping to raise money through workplace campaigns and special events.

This unique partnership makes us more efficient and effective.