United Way of Will County History

United Way of Will County is committed to advocating for the economic mobility, education, and health & wellness of every person in our community.  Leveraging an expansive network that includes individuals, corporate partners, and funded organizations, we drive collaborative efforts and innovative solutions to meet the complex challenges facing Will County.

Our collective actions have directly benefited one in four residents, demonstrating the profound impact of unity in our community endeavors.

The mission, to unite Will County communities and resources to empower people and create positive, sustainable change, is deeply rooted in United Way of Will County’s history beginning in 1936.

YEARS UNITED

90 Years of Impact. Building a Stronger Future Together.

For 90 years, United Way of Will County has helped strengthen our community by bringing people together, supporting families, and creating opportunities for lasting change. Our impact is made possible by neighbors, partners, volunteers, and supporters who believe that when one of us succeeds, we all succeed.

Bridge to the Future brings together community leaders, corporate partners, nonprofits, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate 90 years of impact, honor the partnerships that have shaped our community, and invest in a brighter future for Will County.

Join us at Our 90th Anniversary Celebration

United Way of Will County Timeline

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1936

After years of planning and fundraising, the Joliet Community Chest was established with initial funding of $64k
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1950

Introduction of the Red Feather, which symbolized strength, vitality and a healthy community
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1983

UWWC was asked to administer the Emergency Food & Shelter Federal Grant. To date, over $10M has been awarded to Will County Organizations
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1992

A friendly competition between the employees of Caterpillar and ComEd hits the golf course! The Annual Golf Classic is open to all and is still going strong
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2006

Aided in the formation of the Community Foundation of Will County
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2016

Community Impact evolution begins including focused, programmatic community based funding: community engagement initiatives and greater community presence
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2018

Inaugurated Women United with Little Black Dress Soiree
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1937

February 1, 1937
First Campaign Kickoff held at the Rialto Square Theatre
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1960

Our first “Fair Share” Campaign was nationally recognized for leading all US Chest Campaigns in overall campaign increases
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1990

The tornado tragedy led to the formation of the Will County Disaster Relief Fund, with UWWC coordinating the private donations to help those impacted
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1997

The Pillars Society of Will County, UWWC’s Leadership Giving Program was launched. The 104 founding donors each contributed gifts starting at $1,000 annually
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2008

Brought the FamilyWize Prescription Savings Discount Program to Will County. Residents since saved over $1.4M on prescription costs
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2016

Launched the Online Volunteer Center, dedicated to Br. James Gaffney: www.uwwill.galaxydigital.com
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2018

“Read to Succeed” community impact initiative launched
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1942

Name changed to Joliet-Will County Community and War Chest to include U.S.O. support during WWII
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1963

A steering committee led the efforts to transition the JWCCC to a new, unified campaign, The results were the incorporation of the United Crusade of Will County
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1991

Aided in the formation of JAY (Joliet Alliance for Youth), a membership organization of youth providers
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2006

Aided in the formation of the South West Suburban Philanthropic Network (SWSPN) which provides professional development opportunities for non-profit professionals
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2013

All 20 Standards of Charitable Accountability, per the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, were met and still maintained today
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2016

Awarded highest ranking by Charity Navigator: 4-Star Charity
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2018

“Community Baby Shower” community engagement event and distribution network launched. Changed to the Diaper Depot in 2022.

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1947

Name changed to Joliet-Will County Community Chest (JWCCC) to reflect broader community support
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1976

Named changed to United Way of Will County (UWWC)
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1991

Aided in the formation of the Warren-Sharpe Community Center, Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R), and Daybreak Homeless Center to meet unmet needs and provide comprehensive services to under served populations
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2006

Aided in the formation of MAPP-Mobilizing for Action Through Planning & Partnership, which provides collaborative platform for those committed to the health of our residents
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2014

Facing changes in philanthropy generational shifting & social technology innovation, UWWC was determined to learn, grow and evolve. Through the support of Caterpillar, the Community Foundation of Will County & ExxonMobile, our Strategic Plan was underway
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2016

“Hygiene for Humanity” community engagement initiative launched