UNITED FOR ALL

We envision a community where we are all united.

Around the world, across the country, and all over our home state of Alaska, hearts have turned toward understanding the disparities and differences that affect us all. Entire populations of people-our friends, neighbors, colleagues and counterparts-have faced major challenges as a result of policies, practices and mindsets that create barriers for them; without the rich histories and experiences of all people, our community cannot be whole.

United Way of Mat-Su has and continues to work toward excellent Health, strong Financial Stability and quality Education for all residents of our community. We publicly acknowledge that without the rich cultures of the Ahtna and Dena’ina Athabascan peoples, their stalwart stewardship of the lands, waters and skyscapes we inhabit, and the often-painful past histories of their forced removal and disconnection from traditional lands, we would not be here and able to do this work. Our organization vows to not only maintain, but to expand, evolve and reshape our partnerships with our area’s tribal elders, affiliates and councils so as to honor the peoples from whom we have received so much.

United Way of Mat-Su envisions a community wherein all residents have meaningful opportunities, comprehensive and compassionate treatment, direct resources, and can achieve their highest potential. Where every individual is at their best, a powerful, cohesive community grows; where a level playing field does not exist, well-being cannot be achieved. We understand full well that there is much work still to be done and our promise is to advance that work every day.

Whether gathering large groups of volunteers to clean and make safe a local playground, participating in shaping our state’s policies, funding safety and accessibility improvements for local agencies, or providing needed school supplies, food, healthy activities and fellowship to families and individuals from all walks of life, United Way of Mat-Su pledges to further our work in dismantling barriers to better lives for for all our community’s members. We strive to always make progress toward good Health, strong Financial Stability and quality Education for our community. We turn our efforts powerfully toward those who have historically lacked the advantages that we ourselves enjoy.

Our community is only as strong as its philanthropic and compassionate infrastructures. By seeking to lift up all people, we can show our gratitude for the lived experience of all community members, sharing the work of engaging all Mat-Su residents in conversations that celebrate each person, rather than silencing those voices which heretofore may have been hidden.

United Way of Mat-Su’s hope for the community we serve is nothing less than a sense of true belonging-not just for each individual, but for every demographic and microsphere from which our Whole Community is comprised. With humbleness, fortitude, intention and grace, we pledge to make choices that reflect fairness, unity, true connection, and amazing opportunities for all.

We Live United

United Way of Mat-Su is proud to be part of such a dynamic community and network of nonprofit agencies. We aspire to involve every segment of the community in every aspect of our work and to demonstrate our commitment to and accountability for Living United in our daily operations, programs and services throughout the Mat-Su.