Better Bay: Celebrating Black History Month | The Critical State of DEI Across Sectors | Your 2025 Tax Questions Answered | Your Generosity. Your Wa
United Way Bay Area
For over 100 years we've brought together individuals and organizations across the Bay Area to end the cycle of poverty!
Dear Friend,
Welcome to the latest issue of the Better Bay Newsletter!
As we honor Black History Month, we reflect on the profound legacy of Black leaders who have influenced the Bay Area’s struggle for social justice—and the urgent work that remains. We reaffirm our commitment to anti-racist action and equity, acknowledging both the progress made and the ongoing racial disparities that persist.?
Equity is also at the heart of our latest discussions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, where leaders from public media, government, and business explored challenges and opportunities for advancing meaningful change.
Bay Area families are achieving lasting financial stability through your generous support of critical programs like the 211 Helpline and SparkPoint financial coaching. This month, we're highlighting the versatile giving options available to you—because we believe in honoring your generosity, your way!
?As always, thank you for your continued support as we work together to support our Bay Area neighbors across the region!
Be good to yourselves and each other.
Celebrating? Black Leadership & Anti-Racist Action
This Black History Month, I’m reflecting on how that legacy lives on in the growing number of Black leaders transforming Bay Area philanthropy and nonprofit work – and the urgent work still ahead of us.
At United Way Bay Area, we are reaffirming our values and commitments, celebrating Black leaders across our communities, and wishing you all a Black History Month full of pride, celebration, and action.?
“As I have settled into my role as CEO for United Way Bay Area over the past few months, I have been particularly reflecting on the legacy of Black leaders who’ve shaped the Bay Area’s movement for social justice over decades. Our region’s history of advancing equity runs deep.”
As we celebrate, we must also recommit ourselves to anti-racist work because the numbers tell a stark story about racial inequality in our region—not just historically, but persistently. In our community, some people thrive, while many struggle to get by. The gap in median household income between the top 10% and bottom 10% of wage earners is much more pronounced in the Bay Area than across California and the rest of the country. That gap is even more stark for Black and Latiné families.
The Critical State of DEI Across Sectors!
Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is not just a guiding principle—it is woven into the fabric of our daily work. Last year we hosted the webinar DEI or Die: The Critical State of DEI Across Sectors. This powerful conversation brought together thought leaders from public media, government, education, and corporate sectors to discuss the landscape, challenges, and opportunities in advancing DEI.
Diversity at all levels of a company or organization improves profitability and employee retention and expands the development of innovative ideas.
We acknowledge that the current moment is in constant flux. However, these insights provide valuable guidance, which is why we are making this important conversation available to the public. Watch the full webinar to gain deeper insights into the present state of DEI, hear from experts on the frontlines, and discover actionable steps you can take to support this work in your own organization and community.
Your 2025 Tax Questions Answered!
Are you feeling overwhelmed or confused about the tax filing process? You’re not alone! But don’t worry, there’s good news. Our volunteers are ready with plenty of resources to help you navigate the process and maybe even increase your refund. In this guide, we’ll be answering some of the most asked questions about United Way Bay Area - Free Tax Help preparation services and, of course – tax credits.
Making an Impact Today for Future Generations.
Every gift creates a lasting impact—whether through a one-time donation, monthly giving, a major gift, or stock transfer, there are multiple ways to leave a legacy. Your planned gift powers transformative programs like the 211 Helpline and SparkPoint? financial coaching, providing families with the stability they need to thrive and helping build a more equitable Bay Area where every neighbor can create a brighter future.
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Thank you for your continuing support!
United?Way Bay Area activates individuals, businesses, and communities to work together to address the root causes of poverty and build pathways to prosperity for all Bay Area residents.