MIAMI (September 17, 2021) – After 97 years serving Miami, and with an eye toward its upcoming centennial, United Way of Miami-Dade is changing its name to United Way Miami. At the same time, the organization will expand its emphasis on equity, while also focusing on strategic opportunities to improve the lives of the more than half (54%) of Miami-Dade households who are struggling to get by. This work will be conducted across the following key pillars: Education, Financial Stability, and Health.

“With this name change, we are doubling down on our commitment to improve the quality of life for those in need in Miami-Dade County. By bringing together people, resources, nonprofit and corporate partners that support our efforts, we will achieve a community where all people have access to quality education and the opportunity to lead healthy and financially secure lives. This is the foundation for a thriving Miami,” Maria C. Alonso, United Way Miami President and Chief Executive Officer.

The need for equity is supported by United Way Miami’s long-standing work understanding and supporting individuals and families in the community defined as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). Miami’s ALICE residents are hardworking and employed but have little to no savings, struggle to cover basic needs like housing, childcare, health care, food and transportation, and are one emergency away from falling into poverty.

According to Robert E. Sanchez, United Way Miami Board Chair and Ryder System, Inc. Chairman and CEO, “We are dedicated to leveraging all our assets, including strategic investments, direct services, awareness building, and public policy, to create a more equitable community in Miami. We welcome the participation and support of the public and private sectors, non-profit organizations and individual volunteers in bringing this vision to life.”

United Way will continue to serve the needs of Miami-Dade County with the name change serving to signal future growth, connect with the geographical center of the county and align with Miami’s international reputation for possibility, aspiration and resilience.

ABOUT UNITED WAY MIAMI

United Way Miami is a driving force in the community, successfully responding to emerging needs and transforming people’s lives. Since 1924, we have worked together with our network of donors, volunteers, and partners, to generate and amplify resources, and advocate for policies that improve the quality of life for all. We leverage our unique role as convener, strategic funder, service provider, awareness builder, and influencer so that everyone in Miami-Dade has access to quality education and the opportunity to lead healthy and financially secure lives — the building blocks of a thriving community.