United Way of Metropolitan Chicago, founded in 1934, runs 211 Metro Chicago and the Neighborhood Network Initiative, investing in community partners across the region. Here is what it does, how to get help, and how to give.
The affiliate uses a two-part strategy: meeting immediate basic needs while transforming neighborhoods from the inside out through community-led work. It raises money and directs it to hundreds of agency and community partners across greater Chicago.
President and CEO Sean Garrett has led the organization since 2018. Its signature place-based work, the Neighborhood Network Initiative, has invested in community partners across more than a dozen neighborhoods since 2013.
The fastest way to reach help is 211 Metro Chicago, launched in January 2023, a free 24/7 line connecting Chicago and Cook County residents to health and social services. The affiliate also supports free tax preparation and uses ALICE data to target its work.
| Program | What it does |
|---|---|
| 211 Metro Chicago | A free, 24/7 line for Chicago and Cook County residents, launched in January 2023. |
| Neighborhood Network Initiative | Place-based investment in community partners across the region since 2013. |
| VITA free tax prep | Free tax preparation that returns credits to working families. |
| ALICE research | Data showing how many Cook County residents struggle financially. |
Because 211 Metro Chicago is relatively new, it consolidates what had been a patchwork of local referral lines into a single regional resource.
Since 2013, the Neighborhood Network Initiative has invested in hundreds of community partners across neighborhoods throughout the Chicago region, backing locally led plans for safety, education, health, and economic growth.
The approach reflects the affiliate's belief that lasting change is built within neighborhoods rather than imposed from outside, with United Way providing funding and coordination.
You can donate directly, give through a workplace campaign, or designate a gift to a specific cause. Donations support the affiliate's grants, neighborhood work, and 211.
Volunteers help in many ways, including IRS-certified free tax preparation. United Way of Metropolitan Chicago holds a four-star rating from Charity Navigator with a 100 percent score, and its EIN for tax-deductible gifts is 30-0200478.
A free 24/7 line launched in January 2023.
Place-based investment in community partners since 2013.
Free tax filing that returns credits to families.
Data on Cook County households that struggle financially.
Funding directed to hundreds of local nonprofits.
Payroll campaigns that fund the affiliate's work.
Sources: United Way of Metropolitan Chicago (liveunitedchicago.org) about and 211 pages; Charity Navigator and GuideStar (EIN 30-0200478). Retrieved June 2026. We are not affiliated with United Way of Metropolitan Chicago and receive no compensation for this listing. Spotted an error? [email protected]
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