Our Work
The issues that people face in our community are often complicated and multi-faceted. They may need a network of services to help them overcome challenges and move from dependence to independence. The truth is, no single nonprofit is able to address every issue facing our neighbors. We strengthen our community as a whole by bringing together local companies, individuals, government and nonprofit agencies to tackle big issues. We work hard to raise funds that support more than 30 essential programs right here in Smith County.
OUR IMPACT AREAS
United Way of Smith County supports programs that target four essential impact areas. By focusing on these impact areas, we hope to ensure that every citizen in Smith County has access to education, adequate health care services, help in the midst of a crisis and a clear path toward financial stability. Visit each impact area to learn more about the amazing organizations we support.
100% STAYS LOCAL AND GOES DIRECTLY TO HELPING FAMILIES MOVE FROM DEPENDENCE TO INDEPENDENCE.
EDUCATION
Improving education in Smith County means focusing not only on school programming and resources, but also parent engagement tools, access to GED and ESL classes for adults, and increasing post-secondary enrollment.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
We are working to create a healthier Smith County by partnering with programs that offer affordable chronic illness treatments and disease prevention. Health related issues can be a barrier to employment and more.
FINANCIAL STABILITY
If families and individuals have secure financial footing, they are less likely to require other services and more likely to succeed. We are working with our partner agencies to identify the root causes and support those efforts.
CRISIS INTERVENTION
Many families are torn apart by domestic violence in Smith County each year. Our focus is on preventing more future violence and supporting services that provide counseling, advocates, and shelter to those victims of abuse.
ADDITIONAL DIRECT SERVICES
A program of United Way, the East Texas Center for Non Profits (ETCN) is committed to helping nonprofits throughout East Texas by providing management training and coaching services to ensure a stable and sustainable future. Our onsite library and personalized services in the areas of Board Governance, Strategic Planning, Grant Research, and 501c3 help strengthen nonprofits by providing essential tools and resources they need to succeed. Membership helps us to provide these services at low cost or even no-fee.
2-1-1 East Texas is a free, anonymous, information and referral service that is available to anyone, 7 days per week, 24 hours each day. The service helps to connect people with critical social services and charitable programs that are available in the local community. You can simply dial 2-1-1 from any phone to speak to someone who can help. Trained and certified Community Resource Specialists assist every caller in assessing his/her need and providing referrals to available local charitable, nonprofit, and govermental agencies.
VOLUNTEER AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE
DAY OF CARING
The Day of Caring is a great opportunity for local citizens to give back! No matter your passions or talents, there is always a place for you to get involved. More than 300 volunteers served at the 28th annual Day of Caring on June 10th, 2022. Make plans to get involved next summer!
WANT TO VOLUNTEER?
For decades, the United Way of Smith County has been a hub for listing volunteer opportunities and connecting volunteers with agencies. Stay tuned, as that database and website are being updated. In the meantime, always feel free to reach out to our stellar partner agencies to inquire about volunteer needs!
OUR COMMUNITY PILLAR SPONSORS
Each year, a select group of local companies designate their corporate gift to help cover the admin of our local United Way campaign. Thanks to our community pillar companies, your gift is going to meet real needs in our community and is not exhausted on United Way overhead costs.
ALWAYS TRANSPARENT
OUR RECENT STORIES
The East Texas Food Bank Announces the Retirement of CEO Dennis Cullinane
Tyler, TX- The East Texas Food Bank (ETFB) announced today that the Chief Executive Officer Dennis Cullinane is retiring at ...
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United Way Reaches 2022/23 Campaign Goal, Surprises Donor With New Jeep
The United Way of Smith County recently exceeded their 2022 campaign goal by raising $2.109 million from April of 2022 ...
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Dr. Aubrey Sharpe, Community Staple Passes Away
The Board and staff of the United Way of Smith County are deeply saddened to share that our Development Officer ...
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