United Way Unveils New Brand Strategy to Reflect Its Transformative Approach

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 23, 2024

Owatonna, MN - Today, United Way of Steele County joins United Way Worldwide (UWW) to announce a refreshed brand to reflect the organization’s reach and impact in communities as one of the world’s largest and oldest privately funded charities that helps over 48 million people annually, including the 28,951 people served in the Steele County area.

“The global brand refresh is a significant milestone in our organization’s 137-year history and represents our commitment to evolve and innovate in order to meet the changing needs of our communities worldwide” said Angela F. Williams, president and CEO of UWW. “It signifies our organization's longstanding journey, while also embodying our transformative approach to remain relevant, sustainable, impactful now and in the future.”  

United Way’s global brand refresh effort comes at a time when data reveal a decline in the proportion of Americans who volunteer or contribute to nonprofit organizations. Through this renewed strategy, United Way aims to spur greater engagement and action among the public and reinforce what United Way stands for, how it’s different, and why audiences should be engaged with the work of United Way. Underpinning the revitalized brand are four impact areas – youth opportunity, healthy community, financial security, and community resiliency – that highlight United Way's expertise and unwavering commitment.

“By aligning with the global brand refresh, and further unifying with our global network, our United Way will be better equipped to tackle the unique needs of our community and drive meaningful change in the lives of individuals and families here in Steele County,” said Annette Duncan of United Way of Steele County. “This strategic branding approach helps us to better amplify the impact we are having not just in Steele County, but in all communities where we operate.”

UWW’s global brand refresh was informed by a comprehensive and robust brand discovery process that included both qualitative and quantitative research at the local and global level reflecting the needs of communities.

Additionally, United Way is rolling out a new branding campaign theme, “United is the Way™.” By activating the United Way name into a declarative statement of purpose, “United is the Way” invites all people and communities to take action and make a bigger impact, together. The brand refresh also includes a revitalized visual identity, in which UWW’s iconic circle of hope logo has been unboxed to signify the dynamic nature of the 137-year-old organization, which – through its deep roots in tens of thousands of communities around the world – listens and responds in real-time to changing, pressing needs.

UWW’s new brand will be rolled out across all communication channels, including a refreshed website. The organization is confident that the global brand refresh will resonate with its diverse audience and inspire increased engagement and support of communities around the world.

About United Way Worldwide

United Way mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our communities, United Way is there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs. Our reach across tens of thousands of communities means we can share innovations and scale impact to improve lives around the world.  From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, we’re working towards a future where every person in every community can reach their full potential. To learn more, visit www.unitedway.org.

About United Way of Steele County

United Way of Steele County changes lives by mobilizing and optimizing the caring power of our community.  Since 1953, we have been bringing people together to address the urgent needs of our communities and improve the quality of life for every person in Steele County.  We believe that by working together we will have stronger communities where all can thrive.