United Way of San Diego County

The mission of United Way of San Diego County is to spark breakthrough community action that elevates every child and family toward a brighter future. We have served the San Diego community for over 100 years — more than a century full of experience, relationships, and impact.

UWSD’s goal is to facilitate more equitable systems, providing every student and every family access to education and opportunities to succeed. We do this by leading collaborative partnerships countywide that facilitate strategic solutions between school districts, the business community, the public sector, nonprofits, and social service organizations.

These collaborations focus on 3rd grade literacy, STEAM career exposure and exploration for middle and high school students, and the economic mobility of individuals and families.

Reading proficiency at 3rd grade is the first indicator of graduation success. Those not at proficiency are more likely not to graduate or not graduate high school on time. Last year in San Diego County, 35% of Black and Hispanic third-grade students met or exceeded English Language Arts & Literacy expectations, compared to 73% of Asian and 64% of White students. Additionally, studies demonstrate that Black and Hispanic students represent less than 20% of those studying science or math-based disciplines and less than 5% of the STEAM-based workforce employees.

San Diego County, like too many regions throughout the U.S., has a problem of pervasive racial and ethnic disparities in educational achievement. With your support, United Way of San Diego County will continue to make strides in closing these achievement gaps and creating a vibrant community where students and families from all backgrounds thrive.

United We Can help students succeed in school, reduce inequities in education, and get families access to the essential tools needed to support their children’s educational journey.

Support United Way of San Diego County today by clicking the Donate button above