About United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey

“United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey has, for nearly a century, responded to the needs of our local community while simultaneously addressing the root causes of key issues.” — United Way’s website

In 2018, under the direction of Bill Golderer, UWGPSNJ made major staffing cuts (nearly a third of the 100-person staff) as part of an effort to redefine the organization’s mission. The new direction has the organization concentrating on measurable poverty interventions — particularly those centered on early learning, employment opportunity and economic empowerment — with the immediate goal of “catching Houston.” That refers to Philadelphia’s poverty rate — 26% — and Houston’s — 20% — and the six-point reduction Golderer aims to effect.