United for Equity, Opportunity, and Access for All
We believe Greater Baltimore can reach its maximum potential when everyone, regardless of background, can realize our region’s promise.
Our Commitment to Equity Statement
United Way of Central Maryland promotes equity, creates opportunity, and improves lives by increasing access to education, economic advancement, health, and housing. We achieve equity by dismantling systemic and institutional barriers underrepresented communities face in pursuit of happiness and the quest to realize their dreams.
We respect and value all people without regard to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin or citizenship status, age or ability status. We expect our partner organizations, grantees, staff, volunteers, board members, vendors, and key collaborators to uphold these standards.
Ending Injustice
We vigorously reject and vehemently oppose racism, sexism, discrimination, prejudice, and injustice in all forms.
Access for All
We believe access to opportunities need not be predicated by one’s race, gender identity, sexual orientation, or social characteristics.
Making Change
We amplify the power and impact of neighborhood leaders and link them to much-needed resources to bring about real change.
Our People
United Way believes in a diverse workforce reflecting the richness and vibrancy of the community we serve.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion principles drive our work and undergird our vision of an inclusive workplace where differences are embraced, and employees feel a real sense of belonging. These same ideals are shared by our board members, donors, and volunteers.
Our Charge
We recognize systems change is a marathon and not a sprint. We seek to build and create understanding while leaning into the discomfort it may bring.
We believe Greater Baltimore can reach its maximum potential where everyone, regardless of background, can realize our region’s promise.
Our Impact
We apply an equity lens to our neighborhood initiatives and impact work, to ensure that clients and community stakeholders representing different backgrounds maintain equitable access to services, support, and resources.
We are committed to responsible community investment and the equitable distribution of grant funds.
We seek to strengthen families by ensuring sustainable employment that pays a wage that allows for a secure place to call home, access to healthcare and healthy food, and education.
Far too often, historical inequities and institutional racism result in deeper educational disparities among students of diverse backgrounds, particularly students those of color. By supporting the potential of young people striving for a quality education, we can significantly improve postsecondary outcomes and access to stable employment.
We employ evidence-based approaches to address complex community needs.
By listening actively and gathering data about the challenges facing those in our region, we craft evidence-based solutions that will stand the test of time.
We disaggregate data by race and gender to address disparities, unearth structural inequities, and generate actionable solutions to deep-seated, systemic challenges.
