When an emergency happens—a house fire in the middle of the night, a severe storm that floods a neighborhood, or a power outage that lasts for days—preparation can make all the difference. But for many families, especially those already facing financial challenges, being prepared isn't always easy or accessible.
In 2025, United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey joined Verizon and a national network of United Ways to launch United We Prepare, a multi-year initiative focused on helping communities get ready for emergencies before they happen. Backed by Verizon's investment, the initiative brings practical tools, resources, and training directly to the people who need them most.
Expanding Access to Preparedness
Preparedness is about more than reacting in a crisis—it's about feeling confident and ready ahead of time. Through fire-safety and emergency preparedness workshops, community events, and resource distribution, United We Prepare helps individuals take simple, meaningful steps—like creating a plan, building a go-kit, or knowing where to turn for help.
A Year of Community Impact
During our first year:
- 21 community outreach events reached more than 4,670 people
- 9,600 preparedness resources were distributed
- 8 workshops engaged 255 participants
- 1,500 emergency go-kits were assembled with volunteers
These efforts met people where they are—at neighborhood events, community centers, and trusted local organizations—making preparedness feel approachable and achievable.
Strengthening Partnerships
A key outcome of the initiative was a growing partnership with the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management. Together, partners launched the city's first National Preparedness Month Kickoff and co-hosted public events to expand access to critical information.
This partnership is especially powerful because it brings together complementary strengths: United Way connects deeply with communities and trusted local organizations, while the city brings emergency expertise, coordination, and critical public resources. Together, we are able to reach more people, more effectively.
Measurable Results
Participants reported meaningful gains in confidence and preparedness:
- Confidence in preparedness rose from 30% to 72%
- Awareness of local resources increased from 45% to 79%
- 95% felt more prepared after attending a workshop
Many also planned concrete next steps, including creating emergency kits, saving important contacts, and protecting key documents. Read the full report here.
Looking Ahead
With a strong pilot year complete, United We Prepare is already expanding, with additional workshops and outreach planned for 2026.
United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey remains committed to helping families feel safer, more prepared, and more resilient—so communities can respond and recover together.