United Way Stories

Together, we are changing lives. Your donation is invested locally, changing the lives of people in Ottawa. Since 2011, United Way, its donors and partners have invested in programs and initiatives to change the lives of people all across our city

162 Agency Partners
351 Program Investments
197,000 Lives Changed
30,000 Partners and Volunteers

Find out more about the people whose lives have been improved because of your donation. More stories.

Sarah’s Story – From Terrified Teen to Role Model Mom

Sarah was amongst a graduating class of 13 young women and their babies. Sarah’s dedication to her education and her commitment to her now two-year-old son Marshall earned her the role as Valedictorian of her class.

Maxim’s Story – RightBike

Alienated and unable to connect with society, Maxim travelled for several years in search of a life path. Through Causeway, Maxim began working with RightBike, and began to overcome his fears of returning to the working world. Fall seems to go by so quickly, and before you know it many people will be preparing for Christmas. While thinking about the people on your list who have everything, United Way challenges you to remember those in our community who have nothing… including the 6,700 people in Ottawa who have no place to call home. You can watch more inspiring stories from the United Way on their YouTube channel.