Creating Equity and Change in Our Diverse Community
We build a better future for our community by building it together.
United Way of Summit & Medina is Committed to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
We cannot build a better future for our community unless we build it together.
United Way has worked for decades to create an environment that welcomes all cultures and backgrounds — all walks of life and ways of thinking. We spark conversations and forge connections that embrace every voice and point of view. We commit to building and sustaining a workplace that represents our community in all its richness and diversity. We fight systemic inequity and injustice through advocacy, through education and by mobilizing the caring power of our community to make neighborhoods and families stronger.
No matter who you are, we want your voice to be heard. We want to help you make a difference.
Facts About the Community We Serve
34 percent of Summit County households, and 26 percent of Medina County households earn less than Ohio’s basic cost of living. These residents face persistent barriers to stability – such as lack of access to transportation, affordable housing or food. Yet the health and future of our community depend on their success.
Our programs directly serve people of every age and every walk of life.
45% Of Akron Public Schools third graders were reading at or above grade level in 2022-2023.
88% Of Akron Public Schools high schoolers graduated in 4 years with only 75% college/career ready in 2022-2023.
46% Of Akron youth were employed or active in extracurriculars in 2019.
42,000 people in Akron earned less than Ohio’s cost of living.
9,000 people in Medina earn less than Ohio’s cost of living.
Summit County Black infant mortality rate in 2022 was
12.5 per 1,000 live births.
Responding to Our Community’s Needs
In 2023, there were more than 245,000 requests for assistance through our 211 help line by residents of Summit & Medina Counties. The graphs below show the top requests we received from real people in our community.
Top requests in Summit County
Top requests in Medina County
Help Us Meet the Needs of Our Community.
DE&I Workshops and Trainings
Diversity, equity and inclusion are the backbone of our organization because we know that leading with an equity-lens and inclusive culture positively impacts lives. Whether you are an individual seeking to broaden your cultural understanding or an organization that is committed to new opportunities for your workforce, our DE&I workshops and trainings are open to anyone in the community.
Akron’s Newest Landmark
Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza
The Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza, opened May 29, 2023, honors abolitionist and women’s rights activist Sojourner Truth. Truth delivered her historic speech, now known as “Ain’t I a Woman?” on May 29, 1851, at the Women’s Rights Convention in Akron. The courtyard serves as community space that educates the public on Truth and the ongoing struggle for equality.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Tools
Join the effort to achieve a diverse, equitable and inclusive community. These resources will get you started on your journey to become a DE&I advocate.
Glossary of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Terms
PDF Download
Book, Documentary & Podcast Resources
Article
In our community. With our community. For our community.
Invest where it matters
Our system puts people at the center. We break down the barriers that prevent our neighbors from getting help by working in, with and for our community to build lasting solutions.