Pittsburgh has long been known as a philanthropic hub — and for good reason. This city was built by working people who believed a better tomorrow was possible when communities came together for the common good, not just the privileged few. While times change, leadership shifts and priorities evolve, one thing remains true: In moments of crisis and uncertainty, we look for the helpers.
Look no further than the United Way, which is seeing growing need across our region and the impact it is having on our neighbors. The organization recently announced a $21 million investment over the next three years in human service agencies working to help Pittsburgh not just survive, but thrive.
Human Service Agencies in Western Pennsylvania Receive $21 Million in an Investment From United Way
Powered by 50,000 donors, the grants are the result of United Way’s latest multi-year funding process, during which a record number of community volunteers reviewed proposals from hundreds of nonprofits seeking support.
So why now?
“This $21 million investment is vital and needed now more than ever,” said United Way President and CEO Bobbi Watt Geer, Ph.D. “The number of funding requests to United Way grew by 30% since our last multi-year grant cycle in 2023. This reflects the unprecedented needs our partner agencies are seeing in the community, often from people who have never sought help before. Meeting those needs is one of the reasons we’re asking the public to help us reach our goal of raising $40 million in honor of our 100th anniversary in 2027.”
The timing couldn’t be more critical for grant recipient Maggie Beldecos, chief operating officer of the Trade Institute of Pittsburgh.
“More than ever, our students need assistance obtaining SNAP benefits, affordable housing and a driver’s license,” Beldecos said. “Our case managers are spending additional time helping students navigate the overwhelmed SNAP system. We are now partnered with a local doctor’s office that will see our students for a $10 copay while they wait for their SNAP medical insurance. Moving participants into stable housing is a critical step in ensuring they graduate. Helping them obtain their driver’s license before graduation helps ensure they secure a family-sustaining career.”
How the United Way Supports Western Pennsylvania
For organizations such as the Mosaic Community Development Center (MCDC), United Way’s support dates back to the beginning.
“United Way was one of the first organizations to invest in MCDC four years ago, when we were just getting started,” said Kelly Bender, executive director of the Mosaic Community Development Center. “They believed in our mission, believed in the potential of the children in Jeannette, and have been a true partner ever since.”
That long-term commitment is especially meaningful in today’s funding environment. Multi-year support provides organizations with stability, allowing them to focus on delivering services instead of constantly seeking their next funding source.
“It provides an incredible sense of stability and allows us to focus on what matters most: creating a safe, structured place where children can thrive and build resilience,” Bender said. “It also helps us retain exceptional staff and continue providing transportation and meals that remove barriers for families. I’m especially grateful that United Way continues to prioritize investing in communities like ours here in Westmoreland County.”
As we think about the future of Western Pennsylvania, let’s ask not only what our communities need to thrive, but who we want to be as a collective. Because when we invest in the people and organizations doing the hard work every day, we invest in all of us.
If we continue to center the helpers and give them the resources to expand their reach, this region can remain a national example of what’s possible when compassion, collaboration and community come first.
Support the United Way of Southwestern PA here.
Story by Natalie Bencivenga
Featured Photo: United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania Event coverage by Nancy Andrews/Annie O’Neill Photography. Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved
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