Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Poverty is directly correlated to racial inequalities and systemic injustices. This is unacceptable.

At United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, we know to forge a better path forward, we must be part of the change in creating communities that honor diversity, equity and inclusion.

We believe in equity, in equality and that every single person, regardless of zip code, skin color or background should have the opportunity to create the best lives possible for themselves and their families.

When you give to United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, these are the beliefs you support.

The journey for racial equity begins inside out.

For us, diversity, equity and inclusion shows unity between our board, leadership, team, and our community.

Building and maintaining a racial equity culture is a daily practice and requires ongoing work. That’s why we’re committed to taking quantifiable action to become an actively anti-racist organization — now and in the future.

See the actions we’re taking to build a racial equity culture.

The Latest

Offerings by United Way

SVP Philadelphia’s Work in Context: Local and Global Impact

February 8, 2023

A year of engaged partnership here in Philadelphia and worldwide. One of the best things about being an SVP affiliate is the level of connection...

United Way

A Message from the President

September 1, 2022

As we commemorate Black Philanthropy Month, it is with great pride that I share an update on your United Way’s efforts to support a more...

United Way

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

August 24, 2022

Dear Friend, At United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey, establishing a culture rich in diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our...

Equity will only be achieved when systemic, institutional and historic barriers no longer predict inequitable

socioeconomic, education and health outcomes.

- Bill Golderer, President & CEO

The Fight for Equity

In Philadelphia, the Hispanic and Black communities report the highest poverty rates, respectively at 37.9% and 30.8%. Black Philadelphians are twice as likely to live in poverty as compared to white Philadelphians.
When a child is born into poverty, they are more likely to live in poverty as an adult. In fact, one out of every two children born into poverty will remain poor for a lifetime.
Only 2.5% of businesses in Philadelphia are Black-owned, while Black Philadelphians make up 40% of the City’s overall population.
More than 60% of city-run social services assist Black families, including programs providing basic needs and emergency services.