Community Impact
By connecting efforts and fostering collaboration on a hyper-local level all across the Capital Region, we invest in community organizations that meet immediate basic needs while building opportunities with ALICE households.
Emergency Response
During October's Government Shutdown in 2025, United Way of the Greater Capital Region launched an Emergency Relief Fund to support essential federal employees impacted by the government shutdown. We moved quickly to mobilize support for essential federal workers and their families who were suddenly left without a paycheck. Funds raised through the Emergency Relief Fund provided immediate support to more than 200 essential employees working in the Capital Region. United Way helped ensure workers had access basic needs during a stressful time.
United Way will maintain the Emergency Relief Fund to continue supporting nonprofit partners who still face mounting needs with fewer resources. These funds will help bridge the gap so they can keep delivering critical services throughout the Capital Region.
For more than 100 years, United Way of the Greater Capital Region has been here to meet moments of crisis—standing alongside families, workers, and community organizations when support is needed most. By sustaining this fund, we can continue to respond rapidly, provide immediate resources, and ensure that all impacted residents have access to the help they deserve.
During the recent government shutdown, United Way of the Greater Capital Region acted quickly to support hundreds of Albany County families facing unexpected financial hardship. By mobilizing community resources and partnering with local agencies and our corporate partners, we were able to provide short-term cash assistance to households most affected by disrupted services. This emergency support helped families cover essential food items during a time of uncertainty. We remain committed to ensuring that our neighbors have the stability and resources they need—no matter what challenges arise.
Volunteer with United Way
Real change happens when people come together around a shared purpose. At United Way, we unite donors, volunteers, and community partners to invest in people and strengthen communities—ensuring every family has the tools and support they need to thrive.
Our volunteer network continues to grow, with more than 3,000 individuals serving across the nine counties we call home.
But we can’t do this work alone. Your time, skills, and talents make a real difference. When you volunteer with United Way, you become part of something bigger—helping to build a stronger, more connected community.
Get involved today by visiting our volunteer service platform, United to Volunteer.
A Century of Community Response
For 100 years, United Way of the Greater Capital Region has been a trusted partner in meeting moments of crisis. This relief fund ensures rapid response to emerging needs, provides immediate resources to community-based organizations, and helps residents across the Capital Region weather times of uncertainty.