United Way of Oxford-Lafayette County: Uniting the Community to Create Lasting Change
The United Way of Oxford-Lafayette County (UWOLC) is an organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families in the Lafayette-Oxford-University (LOU) community. At a time when our world may feel overwhelming or dark, the UWOLC encourages everyone to become a light in their community by supporting those who are less fortunate. Through collaboration with volunteers, donors, partners, and advocates, the United Way is able to positively impact the lives of many in the Oxford and Lafayette County area.
The UWOLC is driven by a strong mission to improve the lives of its residents by uniting people, resources, and efforts to meet the most pressing community needs. Their approach focuses on providing the essential building blocks for a good life, including health, education, financial stability, and access to basic needs. Their philosophy is rooted in the belief that no single organization can address these challenges alone. Therefore, the UWOLC partners with individuals, local businesses, nonprofits, and public entities to mobilize resources, foster collaboration, and create sustainable solutions to improve the quality of life for all residents in the community.
One of the key strengths of the United Way is its ability to engage a wide range of community members to create change. The organization prides itself on the thousands of volunteers and donors who come together each year to support important local initiatives. The staff may be small, but the collective efforts of the many volunteers and contributors are what make the organization’s work so impactful. The United Way encourages everyone in the community to join their efforts, emphasizing that there is a place for everyone in their team—whether you are giving your time, expertise, or financial support.
A significant aspect of the United Way’s fundraising efforts is the understanding that even small donations can have a meaningful impact. For example, just $5 can fund two books for children through Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, provide a home-delivered meal for an elderly resident through Meals on Wheels, or provide a “lovepack” for a student to ensure they have food over the weekend. Every contribution, whether large or small, helps improve the lives of local residents.
The United Way offers various ways for donors to contribute. Donations can be made as one-time gifts or on a recurring basis—weekly, monthly, or quarterly. This flexibility allows everyone, regardless of financial situation, to make a difference. The funds raised by the United Way support approximately 20 different programs that serve the needs of individuals across all demographics in the LOU community. Additionally, donors have the option to designate their funds to specific programs or focus areas, ensuring that their contributions go toward causes they care about most.
Beyond financial contributions, the United Way’s efforts also rely heavily on community involvement through volunteering. Volunteers are integral to the success of the programs supported by the United Way, from packing and distributing food for local food pantries to helping with educational programs or assisting in healthcare initiatives. The organization empowers individuals to serve others, ensuring that community members are actively participating in the positive changes happening in their own backyards.
The values of the United Way are essential to its success. They strive to be agents of change, inspiring individuals to take action by giving, volunteering, and advocating for those in need. The organization is committed to being responsive to the educational, financial, and health needs of the community, ensuring that no one is left behind. Accountability and fiscal responsibility are key priorities—funds are managed with integrity and transparency, making sure that every dollar is put to good use. The United Way also places a strong emphasis on maintaining the highest level of integrity and conducting all operations with honesty, respect, and openness.
In addition to its core values, the United Way follows several guiding principles. They are committed to making a meaningful impact by addressing the root causes of community challenges. They are accountable for how funds are spent and prioritize the needs of the community in all of their decisions. Their goal is to be a leader in the community by working collaboratively with other organizations and stakeholders to address both current and emerging needs.
Kurt Brummett, Executive Director
United Way of Oxford-Lafayette County
440 N. Lamar Blvd., Suite 5 Oxford, MS 38655
662-236-4265 Uwoxfordms.org
