On Friday, the boards of United Way of Greater Williamsburg and United Way of the Virginia Peninsula voted to merge organizations. The newly merged United Way is serving the counties of Gloucester, New Kent, James City, Mathews, and York and the cities of Hampton, Newport News, Poquoson, and Williamsburg.
The reformed organization is uniquely positioned to work with community leaders, businesses, policymakers, nonprofits and individuals to affect change on a scale that neither organization could achieve on its own.
This merger unites already interconnected communities on the Peninsula and the Middle Peninsula to ensure a proactive approach to their most pressing needs. The two entities merged as a result of growth in the region. Many of the agencies United Way funded and people they help have roots in both service territories. As one organization, relationships with residents and service providers are strengthened and stakeholders are more easily engaged. The merged organization now has the ability to serve a greater number of people, better influence social change, and solve more problems.
Details of the combined entity will continue to be finalized in the coming months. To follow updates visit the
United Way website.