United Way of Yampa Valley

Background Statement

United Way has been strengthening communities for more than 138 years, building trusted partnerships that bring people together to solve local problems. For 47 years, that same spirit of collaboration has guided United Way’s work in the Yampa Valley. Residents, businesses, and nonprofits have joined forces under one common mission—to ensure every household can thrive. Unlike single-issue organizations, United Way addresses the interconnected causes of hardship by investing in Community Resiliency, Financial Stability, Healthy Community and Youth Opportunity.

Through this proven model, every donation stays local and is strategically directed to meet the greatest needs in Routt, Moffat, and Rio Blanco Counties, creating a lasting impact across Northwest Colorado.

OUR STRATEGY

We believe everyone deserves the building blocks for a good quality of life. That quality of life depends on four essential pillars: Community Resiliency, Financial Stability, Healthy Community and Youth Opportunity.

These aren’t just programs — they’re the foundation of a strong, thriving community. Each pillar supports the others. Remove one, and the rest begin to fall. But when we strengthen them all, we build a resilient community where everyone can succeed.

WHAT WE DO

United Way of the Yampa Valley directs donations to programs that strengthen Northwest Colorado through four key pillars: Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Stability, and Community Resiliency. Contributions help provide children and working families with support such as Youth United Way, Skilled Trades Scholarships, and Childcare Tuition Assistance. Donations also expand access to health and wellness services, behavioral health programs, and essential resources for families in need. Through the Western Slope Opportunity Project and free financial literacy classes, community members gain the tools to achieve lasting financial independence.

Gifts to UWYV also sustain coordinated recovery efforts when wildfires, disasters, or personal crises occur, ensuring that no neighbor faces hardship alone. These programs are especially vital for the many local households who are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed), working hard but still struggling to afford basic needs: 36% in Routt County, 49% in Moffat County, and 42% in Rio Blanco County. Each donation helps build a more stable, healthy, and resilient Yampa Valley where every household can thrive.