Changing lives and strengthening our community

Real change takes a united effort. At United Way Space Coast, our mission is to change lives and strengthen our community. We don’t just focus on one issue; we focus on what it takes for everyone to thrive.

We take on our community’s most pressing challenges with a broad, connected approach, because lives don’t happen in silos, and neither should solutions.

We invest in a full range of essential services that help people stay afloat and move forward. From safety net support to proactive programs that prevent crisis before it hits, we meet needs head-on, so individuals and families can build real, lasting stability.

Together, we create stronger foundations and brighter futures for all who call the Space Coast home.

Real Impact Requires a United Effort

While many nonprofits focus on a single group or issue, United Way Space Coast takes a broader view. We invest in a wide range of safety net services and proactive programs that prevent crisis before it begins, helping individuals and families find their footing and stay strong.

Thanks to the generosity of local residents and businesses, United Way Space Coast’s impact on our community exceeds $18 million. For every dollar donated, UWSC is able to bring an average of nearly three matching dollars.

We are Brevard’s trusted community connector, mobilizing people to care, take action, and create real, lasting change.

When we work together, we build more than solutions. We build a stronger economy, a more resilient region, and a better future for everyone who calls this place home.

Our History

United Way’s roots stretch back to 1887, when the Charity Organization Society formed in Denver to bring people together for good. From the 1920s through the 1940s, the United Way movement as we know it began to take shape, uniting business and labor leaders to reduce fundraising fatigue and maximize impact through a single, powerful campaign. First known as the Community Chest, then the United Fund, we eventually became known across the country—and around the world—as United Way.

Locally, our story began in 1957, when a group of caring Brevard residents came together to help neighbors in need. They launched the Brevard County United Appeal in the spring of 1958, leading the first county-wide campaign that raised more than $104,000 to support 12 local agencies. A second campaign followed that fall, bringing in more than $140,000 for 1959 operations.

In 1962, we became the United Fund of Brevard County. In 1971, we adopted the name that’s served our community for more than 50 years: United Way of Brevard.

Our Future

In 2025, we’re evolving into a new era—energized, future-focused, and more connected than ever. We are proud to reintroduce ourselves to the community with a new name: United Way Space Coast.

While our brand promise is still to improve lives and strengthen our community, we are experiencing a new momentum, rising to meet today’s challenges with fresh energy, bold ideas, and a dynamic approach that reflects the spirit of the Space Coast.

This isn’t just a name change. It’s a reflection of where we are, who we serve, and the incredible future we’re reaching for. With the exponential growth of the space industry right here in our backyard, this name captures a moment, and a movement. It’s about pride in place, clarity of mission, and a signal to the community that we are ready for growth, for impact, and for the next era of United Way in Brevard.

We’ve done the work to rebuild. Now it’s time to rise—to unite, to launch, and to lead.

Together, we’re reaching even higher. Because when we Live United, there’s no limit to what we can do.