United Way Monmouth & Ocean Counties
Our History
More than a century of bringing people together to build a stronger, healthier community for everyone.
A Legacy of Impact
From a small group of community leaders to a county-wide movement — our story spans generations of dedication, growth, and lives changed.
United Way of Monmouth County (UWMC) was incorporated by a group of business, labor and community leaders with two goals in mind: to raise funds for local agencies through a single campaign conducted in the workplace, and to distribute those funds in a thoughtful manner. That year, $128,000 was raised for 27 agencies.
United Way of Ocean County (UWOC) forms as an offshoot of Monmouth County United Charities to raise funds for Ocean County residents in need.
United Charities incorporated into the United Way of Ocean County.
UWMC, in collaboration with the Monmouth County Department of Human Services and Monmouth County September 11th Task Force, established the Monmouth County September 11th Resource Center at Brookdale Community College to assist all those impacted by the terrorist attacks.
UWMC & UWOC, along with United Ways across New Jersey, launch 2-1-1, a comprehensive, 24 hour a day, 7 day a week information and referral service.
Warmest Wishes launches to provide new coats and winter essentials to local children
On October 29, 2012, Superstorm Sandy hits New Jersey, one of the most devastating storms to hit the area with over 346,000 homes in NJ damaged or destroyed and over $36 billion in damages. Both Monmouth and Ocean counties were heavily impacted, and from day one, UWMC and UWOC were there mobilizing volunteers and resources.
UWMC & UWOC form the Rebuild New Jersey program with United Way of Northern NJ, and receives grants to begin rebuilding Monmouth and Ocean Counties AmeriCorps members, under the supervision of a Construction Manager, assist volunteer groups in construction work to repair damaged homes in the area. Over the course of 3 years, United Way’s Rebuild New Jersey program helped 252 families, and over 6,900 volunteers saved homeowners in Monmouth and Ocean counties over $2 million in labor and materials.
United Way of Monmouth County launched the Women’s Leadership Council, bringing together dedicated women committed to helping local children succeed through education.
The Financial Success Center opened at Freehold Raceway Mall, providing residents with free resources and support to improve their financial stability through a collaborative network of community partners.
United Way of Monmouth County and United Way of Ocean County merged to form United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties (UWMOC), expanding services across both counties. The Women’s Leadership Council was rebranded as Women United.
UWMOC completed a strategic planning process that established new focus areas including school readiness, early grade reading, youth career pathways, and financial stability. The organization also received a $1 million challenge grant from the Jay and Grunin Foundation.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, UWMOC established a COVID-19 Recovery Fund that raised and distributed $70,000 to support local nonprofits and residents facing financial hardship.
UWMOC launched its Basic Needs Initiative to help individuals and families access essential personal care and hygiene products. Since its inception, the program has assisted thousands of households throughout the community.
UWMOC completes a strategic organizational plan Blueprint for Thriving to guide our work over the next 18-month.
UWMOC expanded its community impact through partnerships with more than 75 local schools, providing winter clothing, basic needs resources, and other support services to children and families across Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
Be Part of
Our Story
Over 100 years of changing lives — and we're just getting started. Join us in building a brighter future for Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
