Orange County United Way Unveils Five-Year Strategic Plan to Address Community Challenges

Orange County United Way has launched "UNITED4OC 2030," a comprehensive five-year strategic plan designed to address the region's most pressing social and economic challenges. The initiative outlines a vision to cultivate a stronger workforce, healthier economy, and improved well-being for all Orange County residents, calling on individuals, businesses, and community leaders to collaborate in creating meaningful change.

The centerpiece of UNITED4OC 2030 is an ambitious goal to generate 4 million moments of impact by 2030, building toward a more resilient community. These impacts can range from attending educational events and making financial contributions to volunteering time or mentoring students. The organization emphasizes that every action, regardless of scale, contributes to the broader mission of community improvement.

Lawrence R. Armstrong, Board Chair of Orange County United Way, stated that the initiative will pave the way for a stronger and more united future, inviting community participation throughout the five-year journey. The launch was marked by nearly 500 people participating in family-friendly two-mile walks across all 34 Orange County cities on September 6, with attendance from organization executives, local elected officials, community members, and media.

Susan B. Parks, President and CEO, emphasized that Orange County United Way is positioned to drive meaningful change and fill critical gaps to ensure everyone in the community has opportunities to thrive. The plan focuses on expanding access and opportunities for vulnerable populations through several key service initiatives detailed at https://www.unitedwayoc.org/about-us/our-strategic-plan/.

United for Student Success offers holistic support to close opportunity gaps for underserved youth, focusing on student readiness, high school graduation, and college and career readiness. The programs aim to equip students with adaptable skills for thriving in college and growing industries while navigating evolving job markets.

United for Financial Security empowers families toward long-term economic stability through systemic financial wellness solutions, advocacy, and education. This initiative seeks to establish Orange County as a model of financial wellness where families achieve measurable gains in financial stability through coordinated efforts with financial institutions, policymakers, businesses, and nonprofits.

United to End Homelessness addresses root causes through prevention and housing strategies, strengthening housing and care systems while enhancing prevention mechanisms countywide. The program brings homelessness to the forefront of community discussion and creates civic engagement leading to lasting results.

211OC connects individuals and families to crucial services through an integrated social services network and real-time care coordination, providing closed-loop referrals for housing, food assistance, and other resources from local nonprofits and government agencies. Using trusted partnerships, technology, and data, 211OC reduces barriers and helps residents move toward healthier, more stable futures.