Our History

Over the past 100 years, a small local movement grew and expanded across Southwest Missouri and Southeast Kansas, eventually becoming the United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas.  Driven by local leaders and supported by local individuals and businesses, United Way has raised millions of dollars to help thousands of your neighbors in need...

As we thank all those who came before for a century of service, we look forward to ways to continue expanding our impact right now to build a brighter future for all.

United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas mobilizes the community 
with one goal in mind - helping people live their best possible lives.

Unite With Us.

United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas serves Jasper and Newton Counties in Missouri and Crawford, Cherokee, and Labette Counties in Kansas. Whether it’s through our traditional fundraising campaign, providing support to our communities following a disaster, or implementing initiatives such as the Little Blue Bookshelf Project, the Critical Medical Needs Program, or overseeing the Care Partner Network, United Way of Southwest Missouri & Southeast Kansas works hard to serve all members of our communities.