The truth is, we can’t meet our community's Bold Goals alone. Corporate giving is the steady support we need that keeps help within easy reach for families across Summit & Medina counties. When local companies invest their time, dollars, and people, we all move...
News
See the latest updates on the impact that United Way of Summit & Medina has on our community.
Standing With the Families Who Keep Our Communities Running
They’re the people who open the coffee shop before sunrise, care for our loved ones, fix our cars, and teach our kids. They’re essential to our community and yet many of them are one unexpected expense away from crisis. We call them ALICE, households that are Asset...
Healthy Babies, Stronger Communities: A Night of Light and Remembrance
Our community gathered in heartfelt unity for the annual Wave of Light, a global event honoring the babies who left us too soon. Held at the Knight Center for Truth inside of United Way of Summit & Medina's downtown Akron office, the evening was intimate, deeply...
United Way of Summit and Medina and City of Akron Announce Launch of Free Legacy Planning Program to Help Increase Asset Protection and Intergenerational Wealth in Akron
Akron Financial Empowerment Center to offer one-on-one legacy planning to help residents retain wealth by protecting and preserving assets, with support from Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund. The City of Akron and United Way of Summit and Medina’s (UWSM)...
Youth United: Building the Next Generation of Leaders
At United Way of Summit & Medina, we believe that strong communities are built by investing in the potential of every young person. That's why Youth United exists. This mentorship program connects caring adult mentors with Akron youth to foster personal growth,...
How the Financial Empowerment Center Helps Our Community Thrive
At United Way of Summit & Medina, we believe financial empowerment is more than just numbers in a bank account, it’s the foundation for health, opportunity, and dignity. That’s why the Financial Empowerment Center exists: to provide compassionate, judgment-free...
United Way of Summit & Medina Hosts Annual Report to the Community
United Way of Summit & Medina hosted its annual Report to the Community event on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the John S. Knight Center in Akron. This annual event brings together business, civic, and spiritual leaders to discuss updates...
United Way of Summit & Medina Confirms McFadden as President and CEO
United Way of Summit & Medina Confirms McFadden as President and CEO The Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of United Way of Summit & Medina has unanimously confirmed Annie McFadden as President & CEO of the organization, effective immediately....
Akron’s Future Starts Now, and Your Business Plays a Role
In Akron, something powerful is happening inside public-school classrooms. Students are not just learning. They are training for the future, earning real, transferable credentials, and connecting with career paths early on. Behind this transformation is a unique model...
Financial Empowerment Center Relocates to Downtown Akron to Expand Access and Strengthen Services
In partnership, the City of Akron and United Way of Summit & Medina are proud to announce that the Financial Empowerment Center (FEC) is moving to a new, more accessible location in the heart of downtown Akron: 37 N. High Street, Akron, OH 44308, the current...
Why Career Readiness Matters Now More Than Ever
In today’s fast-moving global economy, it’s not enough to simply graduate or get a degree. Employers are looking for more than just diplomas. They want candidates who can communicate clearly, think critically, adapt quickly, and contribute to a positive workplace...
Financial Literacy Tips from United Way Summit & Medina
Financial literacy is the key to financial empowerment, helping you make smart decisions about budgeting, saving, investing and more. The team at United Way of Summit & Medina is here to help with tips to help you take control of your financial future! What Is...
Adapt to Thrive
Adapt to Thrive in Medina County with United Way of Summit & Medina By Ron Paydo, The Huntington National Bank; and Jani Groza, Westfield Nonprofits have always been the backbone of our communities, stepping in where traditional institutions fall short. But today,...
A Simple Action Can Help Save Lives
Now More Than Ever, A Simple Action Can Help Save Lives By Whitt Butler and Tracy Dowe, Board Chair and Vice Chair, United Way of Summit & Medina The world is changing and we’re changing with it. As community needs grow and the landscape of donor support shifts,...
Exploring United Way Services & Success Stories
At United Way of Summit & Medina, we focus on supporting our residents and then celebrating their success stories. From a senior citizen getting his house back to a newly single mom reclaiming control of her finances, let’s highlight the wins of our local residents!...
United Way of Summit & Medina Celebrates National 211 Day
Free program answered more than 75,000 calls, texts and emails for help last year. AKRON, Ohio – Feb. 10, 2025 – February 11 marks National 211 Day, and United Way of Summit & Medina is celebrating the impact of this vital resource. A program of United Way of...
Understanding Community Needs in Summit & Medina Counties
United way of Summit and Medina County offers services that meet the needs of our residents. Through community needs assessments and spending time in the community, we are confident that our services help them move towards health and stability. Join our team below as...
Looking to volunteer in 2025? United Way of Summit & Medina offers opportunities throughout the year.
United Way of Summit & Medina is recruiting participants for its 2025 volunteer opportunities. Designed to accommodate individuals, families and groups – including workplace teams – these events allow volunteers to make a direct positive impact on their community....
United Way of Summit & Medina names interim President and CEO
United Way of Summit & Medina has announced Annie McFadden, current Chief of Staff, Impact and Communications, will serve as the interim President & CEO of the organization effective immediately. McFadden will be replacing Jim Mullen who is departing the...
Jim Mullen, President and CEO of United Way of Summit & Medina departing organization
United Way of Summit & Medina has announced that after nearly a decade with the organization, Jim Mullen has stepped down to fill the position of President & CEO with Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Cleveland. Mullen joined the organization in April 2015...
Programs Offered by The Center For Immersive Leadership
One of the greatest investments we can make for the future of Summit and Medina counties is in cultivating passionate and purpose-driven leaders. Through the support of United Way of Summit & Medina, community members have the opportunity to develop their...
United Way of Summit & Medina seeking donations to light the path for those seeking stability, achieve its Bold Goals
United Way of Summit & Medina is calling on members of the community to support its work in Summit and Medina counties by donating to its end of year giving campaign. “This time of year, when residents face increased needs, like new winter clothes and higher...
United Way of Summit & Medina seeks volunteers to provide free tax prep for local residents
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program brought in more than $3M in refunds to residents last year. United Way of Summit & Medina’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is seeking volunteers for the 2025 tax season. Last year, the program, which provides free...
United Way of Summit & Medina volunteers prep 1,000 bags of school supplies for Akron Public Schools students
Volunteers packed more than 30,000 supplies for distribution in January. Last week,110 United Way of Summit & Medina volunteers sorted, counted and packed more than 30,000 school supplies for Akron Public Schools students as part of its Stuff the Bus Recharge...
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