United Way of the Greater Capital Region Expanding Regional Footprint in 2019

Adding Columbia, Greene Counties to Albany, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady & Schoharie Creates Opportunity to Build More Robust Partnerships Across New York’s Capital Region.

ALBANY, NY (January 7, 2019) --- United Way of the Greater Capital Region’s Board of Directors announced an expansion into Columbia and Greene Counties effective at the start of 2019.

NYS Couty map with UW service area's highlighted

“This is a natural expansion for our organization to bring United Way’s presence to another level in the communities within Columbia & Greene Counties,” said Brian O’Grady, Chair of the Board.  “For over 90 years, we have served the community by providing funding, programming and other services to improve the quality of life of everyone in our community and I look forward to building on that this year.”

Adding Columbia and Greene Counties brings the total number of counties represented by United Way of the Greater Capital Region (UWGCR) to seven. 

“There is so much synergy between these counties and the areas we already serve.  We are familiar with Columbia and Greene counties through our work with Call 2-1-1 and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA),” said UWGCR President and CEO Peter Gannon.  ”Our team will start the process in early 2019 to learn the needs of the communities and to look at bringing additional United Way programming like our Summer Meals Collaborative, long term disaster recovery and our locally based programs in workforce development and financial stability.”

“United Way of New York State is proud to support our member, United Way of the Greater Capital Region (UWGCR), with their expansion to Columbia and Greene Counties,” said Brenda Episcopo, President & CEO, United Way of New York State.  “With high rates of poverty and ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) among residents in this region, the community will benefit from UWGCR’s investments, support and regional approach.  We expect great things as residents and business join their new United Way in the fight for education, financial stability and health.”