United Is The Way

For more than 100 years, United Way has been the trusted nonprofit in Chautauqua County to mobilize the community and drive impact for lasting change. True to our founding spirit, wherever there is a need in our community, United Way of Chautauqua County is there. 

We are uniquely positioned to connect all sectors of the community — from individuals, businesses and nonprofits to government — and leverage those connections to move people from intention to action. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs on the ground while working with our community partners to address long term solutions.

Our Mission

We mobilize the community to help every person and family improve their lives.

Who We Are

United Way is a trusted pillar in the community, with its pulse on emerging issues and real-time needs. We unite local individuals, regional experts, and community partners to leverage resources across systems—expanding opportunity, elevating proven solutions, and strengthening sustainable change for individuals and families.

Our History

The United Way of Northern Chautauqua County and United Way of Southern Chautauqua County were each begun as a local "Community Chest" more than 100 years ago. In the decades thereafter, each served their respective halves of the county with the same purpose: To mobilize the caring power of the community to help better the lives of all residents.

In 2024, the two separate United Ways in Chautauqua County began exploring a merger into one county-wide organization. In June of 2024, the Board of Directors of each United Way reviewed and approved the merger proposal — with the state of New York signing off on the merger in the spring of 2025.

With more than 100 years' history and impact behind us, United Way of Chautauqua County is looking to grow a legacy for the future. Learn how you can contribute to our efforts and help make an impact in the next 100 years: Click here.

Our Annual Report

Click here to download our current annual report, detailing our work and impact between July 1, 2024 and June 30, 2025.