Baltimore, MD (February 14, 2024) – United Way of Central Maryland announced a year-long celebration of its century of service, impact, and community transformation yesterday. Throughout 2025, the organization will host a series of events inviting the entire community to commemorate this historic milestone and engage in meaningful change. The organization announced plans to expand programs and partnerships that deepen its impact for neighbors who live as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained and Employed) and those living in poverty across Greater Baltimore.
To kick off the centennial celebration, United Way unveiled a lineup of exciting events for the entire community, including a Centennial Benefit Concert and the organization’s Way Day of Service. These, along with a variety of community-centered programs, will highlight the lasting impact of United Way’s work and honor the partnerships and supporters that have fueled the organization’s mission to improve lives in the Greater Baltimore area by increasing access to education, health, housing, and economic advancement.
“For 100 years, United Way of Central Maryland has been a catalyst for long-term, positive change,” said Franklyn Baker, president and CEO of United Way of Central Maryland. “We have served our region through natural disasters, wars, civil unrest, health crises, government shutdowns, and more. What began as a ‘community chest’ fundraising organization transformed into a data-informed organization that provides direct services. Through our programs and services, we have evolved to meet the changing needs of our region, ensuring that support is available where and when it’s needed most. Our centennial is a time to reflect on our legacy while accelerating efforts to build thriving communities for the next 100 years.”
United Way’s United for our Futures 100th Anniversary fundraising campaign has raised $20 million to date. Funds will support the expansion of its Veterans Treatment Court, acceleration of supports for social entrepreneurs, launch of a new Neighbors United University pilot, and deepened investments in education initiatives like Young Men United and the organization’s three early learning Family Centers – two of which serve parenting students.
“The changing landscape of our region and nation along with the challenges we face every day will require clear vision, courage, and yes, love towards our most vulnerable neighbors,” Baker added. “While we have reached our original fundraising goal, much more work needs to be done; continued investment in our work is needed now more than ever.”
“Neighbors United is a program that…builds community, [and] you have to advocate,” said Emily Añez, director of housing of City of Refuge. “It was so good for me because I was able to advocate for the Latino community and I’m a Latina. If you [look at] this room, you see many colors and that’s what brings change to the community. Someone did it for me, and I want to bring back to my community what they did for me.”
United Way of Central Maryland invites the community to participate in this historic milestone. More information about how to give, celebrate and volunteer can be found at https://www.UWCM.org/100.
About United Way of Central Maryland
United Way of Central Maryland helps people access basic needs like housing, healthcare, jobs, and education. The nonprofit’s programs advance access to opportunity, and improve the lives of our neighbors and the neighborhoods they call home. For 100 years, United Way has addressed ongoing and emerging needs in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford, and Howard counties. Learn more at uwcm.org.
