OUR STORY CONTINUES
CELEBRATING 135 YEARS AS THE FIRST UNITED WAY IN THE WORLD
As we celebrate this milestone, we also celebrate the families, individuals, donors, volunteers, and partners who have shaped our 135-year rich history. Our story includes many chapters and is only possible because of you. Now, our collective story continues as we look to the future and ensure all families have the opportunity to thrive. Watch the video to learn more.
Join the campaign! We would love to celebrate your Mile High United Way story on social media. Learn more
Our History
Our story began on October 16, 1887 when a group of visionaries, including Frances Wisebart Jacobs, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi, came together and formed what is now known as Mile High United Way. Today, the United Way movement spans 1,800 local chapters across the globe.
Celebrating Women's History
Frances Wisebart Jacobs
In 1887, Colorado’s ‘Mother of Charity’, Frances Wisebart Jacobs, mobilized four clergymen around an idea to collect funds for local organizations.
Frances’ drive to help people 135 years ago led to the founding of Mile High United Way and a worldwide movement to create greater opportunity for all. Frances is in the National Women’s Hall of Fame and is the only woman recognized with a stained-glass portrait in the Colorado State Capitol Rotunda.
Our Work Today
Mile High United Way provides wraparound support to families across the seven-county Metro Denver area. Our programs and initiatives align with three Community Priorities: giving all children a strong start, supporting education and academic success, and creating economic opportunity for all.
At the heart of Mile High United Way are the many stories of children, mothers, fathers, business owners, volunteers, and partners that we are privileged to work alongside. Together, we are a Community United.
Scroll through the slider below to read a few of these stories.
Share Your Story
We want to hear from you! Join us in celebrating this milestone year by sharing how Mile High United Way has impacted you.
Creating a stronger, more resilient community is only possible when we are united. A gift to Mile High United Way provides immediate wraparound support to families while building pathways to long-term success. Your gift changes lives.
OUR STORY BEGAN IN 1887
Now called the Denver Community Chest, the organization raises $649,000, which is $40,000 over its goal. Leaders emphasize four service areas: children (orphanages, day care, nurseries, and medical care), youth (homes and character building), family (relief agencies and health organizations, and older adults (care facilities).
World-famous designer Saul Bass designs the international United Way logo, with a rainbow bordered by a helping hand and symbol of mankind at the center. The logo is still used today!
Ready to Succeed is the first of a succession of innovative programs focused on quality early childhood services. Other future initiatives include the nation’s first childcare rating system Qualistar Colorado.
Mile High United Way establishes the Neighborhood Center Project, an after-school program for middle school students, ensuring positive youth development and academic success. Learn more about our education and literacy work today
Mile High United Way Women’s Leadership Luncheon becomes a major annual event. What is known today as the Women United Luncheon brings together hundreds of attendees each year, including community leaders, elected officials, and nationally renowned speakers. Learn more about Women United
United Way, in partnership with the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems, successfully petitions the Federal Communications Commission to designate 211 for health and human services information and referral. The Mile High United Way 211 Help Center is established. Learn more about 211
Mile High United Way expands youth success initiatives with Bridging the Gap, a program providing opportunities for young adults who are transitioning out of the child welfare system. Learn more about Bridging the Gap
Mile High United Way expands the 211 infrastructure to serve individuals and families throughout Colorado. Learn more about 211 Colorado
The Mile High United Way team moves into their new 63,000-square-foot building in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood, which includes walk-in service for the first time, the 211 Help Center, and a conference space available for nonprofit partners.
Mile High United Way and Right on Mobile Education launch a mobile preschool, which operates in the Globeville and Elyria-Swansea neighborhoods. This innovative initiative expands access to quality education to Denver families. Learn more about the mobile preschool
Mile High United Way, Mercy Housing Mountain Plains, the City and County of Denver, and others celebrate the groundbreaking of The Rose on Colfax. The new, mixed-use development will have 82 affordable homes and will be home to the Mile High United Way Early Childhood Education Center. Watch Video
