What is United Way?
In 1887, a Denver woman, a priest, two ministers and a rabbi got together... It sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but they didn't walk into a bar; what they did do was recognize the need to work together in new ways to make Denver a better place.
Frances Wisebart Jacobs, the Rev. Myron W. Reed, Msgr. William J. O’Ryan, Dean H. Martyn Hart and Rabbi William S. Friedman put together an idea that became the nation's first united campaign, benefiting 10 area health and welfare agencies. They created an organization to collect the funds for local charities, to coordinate relief services, to counsel and refer clients to cooperating agencies, and to make emergency assistance grants for cases that could not be referred. That year, Denver raised $21,700 for this greater good, and created a movement that would become United Way.
United Way has grown from its small roots to a worldwide entity, sparking change in local communities.
Who We Are
United Way of Greater Baytown Area and Chambers County has the mission to develop, promote and support solutions designed to meet targeted community needs. The organization strives to impact communities in four key areas of education, financial stability, basic needs, and health.
We focus on education so we can address opportunity gaps from cradle to career. We strive for community financial stability to empower people to achieve stable financial ground. We recognize that basic need such as food and shelter are key to an individual’s health and well-being. We promote health because strong bodies and minds make for even stronger communities.
By focusing on local communities, and in conjunction with other United Way’s around the United States, our impact is from the ground up and far reaching.
GIVE
Help us feed the hungry, house the homeless, and equip disadvantaged youth with the tools and guidance for success in school and life.
ADVOCATE
Tell your family and friends! We need your help spreading the word about the needs of local kids and families, and the many ways people in our community can make a difference.
VOLUNTEER
There is nothing more powerful or rewarding than giving your time! There are opportunities that fit any schedule and anyone willing to help!
Please explore the website to learn more or call 281-424-5922.
United Way of Greater Baytown Area and Chambers County is located at 5309 Decker Dr, Baytown, Texas 77520.
Our organization's roots began after World War II in 1946 as the Tri-Cities and East Harris County Community Chest.
During the war, Baytown-area residents gave generously to the Community Chest, with the contributions supporting a variety of local needs: community health, services and programs for returning war veterans, character building and recreational activity, as well as war relief. At the time, local leaders saw the benefits of an organization that would be able to provide more comprehensive programs, with greater economy of operation.
