United Way for Greater Austin and United Way of Williamson County on Jan. 5 announced a merger between the two Central Texas chapters.
“As the Austin metro area grows, the boundaries between Travis and Williamson counties continue to blend. Many people work in one and live in the other. For our communities' biggest challenges, more and more people are finding regional solutions optimal,” David C. Smith said.
The merged group will be known as United Way for Greater Austin and seeks to “bring people, ideas and resources together to fight poverty in our community.”
“Integrating the services and expertise of our two organizations will help us better and more efficiently serve our community, both in Williamson County and the region,” said Jodee O’Brien, former CEO of United Way of Williamson County.
The merger will help the organization serve the Central Texas region in a more efficient way. Its services look to assist young children and their families. It will especially be of great help to those families who are working day and night to simply make ends meet.
“This is an exciting growth opportunity for us both,” O’Brien said.
The merged organization will be ensuring the financial stability of the families with young children and also provide students with quality learning opportunities.
The organization will also help people looking for housing, health, food and transportation connect to the appropriate sources.
The merger occurred almost three years after it was proposed. It was supported by the Austin Together Fund.