United Way of Massachusetts Bay

🌟Volunteer Spotlight: Inga Orozco🌟 As we close out April, which marks National Volunteer Month, we take a moment to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of community-minded individuals. This week, we are highlighting Inga Orozco, a managing director at @KPMGUS, began her volunteer journey with United Way three years ago. Introduced by a colleague, she joined the YoPro Committee, drawn to its focus on impactful volunteerism and networking opportunities among like-minded professionals. For Inga, volunteering means connecting with others and addressing community needs, from supporting new mothers through baby drives to ensuring year-round food access. United Way's diverse outreach resonates deeply with Inga's values. Beyond community support, Inga has built lasting friendships, expanded her network, and found fulfillment in giving back to the community. Inga shares three tips for those considering volunteering: • Find Your Passion: Pursue causes you are passionate about and care about. • Get Active: Dive into volunteer activities and engage with peers. • Step Out of Your Comfort Zone: Embrace new experiences for both personal and professional development. Her dedication serves as an inspiring call to join the ranks of the “DOERS”, passionate volunteers, making a lasting difference. Thank you, Inga, for your selfless contributions; they speak volumes about your character and values. #VolunteerMonthSpotlight #CommunityImpact

In honor of National Volunteer Month, we’re highlighting opportunities to volunteer with some of our amazing agency partners! This week, we’re seeking food pantry volunteers at Catholic Charities of Boston's Lynn Food Pantry. The food pantry at is open three days a week and expects to distribute over 10,000 lbs. of food weekly to 125+ families a day. Volunteers are needed to assist with intake (basic computer skills required), “shopping” with clients, stocking shelves, packing groceries, and cleaning. In addition, we offer clients the opportunity to apply for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance and access to other Basic Needs programs. https://bit.ly/3JdyBGJ

As we mark the one-year milestone of launching Our New Way Forward, we are reflecting on a year of working toward transformative change throughout our footprint. Our vision has taken root with 124 partner organizations in 12 focus communities who share our commitment to community engagement and empowerment. We believe that by uniting people, we can unlock opportunities to advance economic prosperity and enable everyone–across races and ethnicities–to share in the knowledge, wealth and resources available. Together, we’re looking forward to our second year and to seeing the impact of our collective actions to drive meaningful change. And, we’re just getting started. Hit the link in bio or go to -- https://bit.ly/4dh64Ol to learn more

As we mark the one-year milestone of launching Our New Way Forward, our seven-year plan to advance an economically just region, we reflect on a year of impact and a reimagination of how together, we can achieve transformative change throughout our footprint. Our vision has taken root with 124 partner organizations who share our commitment to community engagement and empowerment.

The United Way of Massachusetts Bay team took on all 1803 steps at Fenway Park this month in Project Place’s “Climb for a Cause.” The agency raised $472,000 to permanently break the cycle of homelessness and poverty by creating pathways to employment and housing. The climb is 1803 steps—one for every adult currently experiencing homelessness in Boston. @projectplaceboston

🎶✨ Discover The Salon on South! Founded in 2017 by Steven and David Jolan, who met in California nearly two decades ago and share a passion for activism, this sanctuary in Melrose, MA, brings together artists, performers, colleagues, former music students, and attendees alike, for a series of fundraising concerts for social justice causes, amplifying voices, and creating real change. As part of a series of salons, this gathering has twice raised funds for United Way. The first event, on April 4th, 2020, supported our Covid Relief Fund aiding pandemic-affected workers and families. The second, on December 16th, 2023, backed the Massachusetts Migrant Families Relief Fund. 💫 Let's celebrate this community activism project, a beautiful example of a new kind of philanthropy. Learn more about their innovative approach to giving back: [BLOG] #PhilanthropyEvolved #MusicForChange #CommunityActivism

🌟 Volunteer Spotlight: Connor Clancy🌟 April is National Volunteer Month, a time to celebrate those who selflessly serve their communities. This week, we're highlighting @Connor Clancy, Director of GTM Strategy & Growth Initiatives at Workday, driven by a passion for community impact. Originally from Andover, MA, Connor's upbringing instilled in him a deep commitment to addressing issues like homelessness, hunger, and education access, especially after witnessing disparities in neighboring towns like Lawrence and Lowell. During his MBA program in 2021, Connor studied for-profit leaders transitioning into nonprofit roles, connecting with Bob, a former United Way leader, whose vision deeply resonated with him. Inspired, Connor re-engaged with his community through volunteerism and board positions. He joined our YoPro Committee, participates in the Gratitude Project, and lends his expertise to the Beacon Society advisory board. Additionally, he serves on the board of Aaron's Presents, a small nonprofit focusing on kids services, previously funded under our Summer Experiences in Greater Lowell (SEGL) initiative. Connor's holistic approach to volunteering blends hands-on service with strategic advisory roles, enriching his skills and benefiting United Way with fresh insights. Thank you, Connor, for enriching our organization and communities with your passion and perspectives. 🌟 #VolunteerMonthSpotlight #CommunityImpact

🔟 states have already expanded the Earned Income Tax Credit eligibility to working immigrants filing with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Why hasn't #MA? Tell MA Legislators: All families deserve the credit! Lead the country on Tax Credit Fairness and extend eligibility this budget! https://bit.ly/3xP8Yd6

United Way Worldwide has joined a coalition of trusted housing, climate, and community investment groups to build more clean, affordable housing. $2B dollars will go to more than 321 organizations, including 156 communities across 46 states in every EPA region. It's a huge investment for a better future! Learn more in the link in bio.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR GUARANTEED BASIC INCOME  Guaranteed Basic Income (GBI) is not only a proven mechanism for alleviating poverty and improving health outcomes, but it also makes it easier for people to find jobs and take care of their children. GBI pilot programs across the state have shown the value of this program but what would broad implementation look like? And why hasn’t it been implemented already?