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. Stay tuned for more details on the 2020 Day of Caring and how you can get involved this year!
GET CONNECTED EAST TEXAS
The most comprehensive volunteer hub in East Texas! Local nonprofits can post volunteer needs for upcoming events or ongoing projects. You can browse current volunteer needs and get connected to serve in an area that matches your passion and schedule.
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.
OUR RECENT STORIES
Altra Federal Credit Union Steps Up To Help Smith County Families
A HUGE thank you to our friends at Altra Federal Credit Union for answering the call to help meet some increasing ...
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TRUIST Provides Emergency Funding for COVID-19 Relief
The Truist Foundation (Formerly SunTrust & BB&T) recently awarded United Way of Smith County with a $10,000 grant to assist ...
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4 Easy Ways to help A.L.I.C.E.
Millions of American families are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. In the past, this socioeconomic status was called “the ...
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I Want to Start a Nonprofit! Now What?
I often get asked, “Hey, I want to start a nonprofit because I am always helping people. Can I put ...
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What’s the 2-1-1?
Being a child of the 90’s, we used to call one another and ask, “What’s the 411?” That meant, “What’s ...
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The unseen impact of local nonprofits
Drive around Tyler/Smith County and you will notice we live in a very blessed community. We deal with poverty and ...
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