OUR HISTORY

Founding

United Way of Mat-Su (UWMS) was founded to fulfill the hopes of community members and leaders in finding effective, collaborative ways to ensure the health and welfare of all residents of the Mat-Su Valley. Through collaborative effort, it was determined that a local United Way organization could meet key needs, utilizing local dollars to support local resources and services.

Incorporation

United Way of Mat-Su became incorporated on December 28, 1987, and formally adopted bylaws and elected directors and officers in February and March of 1988. UWMS is an autonomous, independent agency. We strive to partner with local businesses, faith-based organizations, other nonprofit agencies, and representatives of government alike.

Mission

For thirty-five years as a force for positive change, we have worked to identify and address our community’s most pressing problems. With the generous support of individuals, corporations, foundations and strategic partners, we are unique and positioned to make a significant and lasting impact. Our work focuses around strategies to create opportunities for everyone in our community to live a better life. United Way of Mat-Su works to advance the common good in the Mat-Su by focusing on the building blocks for a good life: quality education that leads to stable jobs, income to support a family, and good health. We are moving people from poverty to possibility, helping kids be all that they can be, and building strong and healthy communities.