United Way of Erie County was first conceptualized in 1911, when the first recorded discussion concerning the need to unite separate agencies for fundraising and mutual cooperation was held. Then in 1914, it was established under the name of Erie Social Service Federation when 11 of the 22 agencies in Erie County united. This federation of nonprofits would be known by a variety of names throughout the following years, including; Community Chest, United Fund and United Community Services. In 1974, it was established as United Way of Erie County.

For over 90 years, United Way of Erie County has witnessed and experienced many changes, but the one thing that remains constant is its mission of improving people's lives. The words may be different, but the message is still the same:

"On behalf of the residents of Erie County, United Way brings the community together to provide resources that help people in need or at risk solve their problems."




  • 1914: Eleven out of the 22 local social service agencies unite to form the Erie Social Service Federation.

  • 1918: Twenty-five agencies come together to become the Community Chest and raise $895,091 under the leadership of the first recorded Campaign Chairman, Charles R. English.

  • 1952: Erie joins the national AFL-CIO/UW partnership with the hiring of the first Community Service Liaison, Alton Ross.

  • 1956: The United Fund was established by 33 members of the Community Chest

  • 1970: The United Fund merged with Community Services Planning Council and became United Community Services of Erie County

  • 1975: The organization officially becomes United Way of Erie County

 
 


  • 1983: Alexis de Tocqueville Society of Erie County formed and the first Alex de Tocqueville Society Award presented to Edward C. Doll.

  • 1993: Project Blueprint, United Way's minority leadership training program, is created to accelerate minority volunteer involvement and support minority organizations.

  • 1995: The Atlanta Committee for the Olympic Games announced its selection of United Way as the primary provider of community support and volunteer services for the 1996 Olympic Torch Relay.

  • 1997: United Way of Erie County Endowment Fund established with anonymous $1 million donation.

  • 1998: United Ways and the NFL celebrate the 25th Anniversary of their unique partnership; the longest-running sports/charity public service announcement campaign of its kind.

  • 2000: The Annual Campaign raises $5.9 million, the highest total in local history.

  • 2001: United Way of Erie County implements COMPASS, a major community building process designed to discover the community's strengths and to identify the priorities Erie County residents have for the future of their neighborhoods and families.

  • 2002: The Legacy Society founded for contributors to the Endowment Fund

  • 2002: United Way convenes Success By 6, a national community-based movement of public and private partners that work together to deliver proven solutions in early childhood development. United Way also establishes the Neighborhoods First Collaborative, an unprecedented public-private partnership of residents, businesses, government, and service providers collaborating on projects that make our neighborhoods safer and more livable.

  • 2004: Young Leaders Club formed to promote philanthropy, volunteerism and involvement among emerging leaders in Erie County.

  • 2006: United Way moves to a new building located at 420 West 6th Street. Formerly the home of AAA, this new location provides additional meeting space and parking that enhances United Way's ability to work as a convener.

  • 2007: Women In Action is launched. This new initiative works to raise funds for pressing needs affecting women in our community. Initially, Women In Action will focus its efforts on domestic violence.

  • 2007: The Financial Stability Partnership is formed, helping hard-working families in Erie County become financially stable and take the next steps to long-term independence.


 




©2006 United Way of Erie County