In the late 1970s, a group of concerned citizens in Terrebonne Parish came together to discuss ways to improve the quality of life for everyone in their community. Their shared mission was to support health and human services and address the growing needs of local residents.
From these discussions, the United Way of Houma-Terrebonne was established in 1979. The founders quickly recognized that these needs extended beyond a single parish. Within three years, the organization expanded, and in 1981 the United Way for South Louisiana was chartered to serve the residents of Assumption, Lafourche, St. Mary, and Terrebonne parishes. Rooted in the region’s strong culture of “people helping people,” the organization began funding its first member agencies. Over the past three decades, this network has grown to include twenty-six agencies that provide vital services to senior citizens, children, individuals with physical and emotional challenges, cancer patients, and those in need of emergency assistance and literacy programs.
Across the country, communities with an active United Way typically impact one in three residents through funded programs. This level of support is made possible by the generosity of hundreds of companies and thousands of individuals across our four-parish region who contribute through workplace campaigns and personal donations. In fact, more than seventy-five percent of the funds raised each year come directly from local workers and individual donors, who contributed over $1,000,000 last year alone to help member agencies continue their essential work. These contributions provide not just financial support, but a meaningful hand up to neighbors in times of need.
Each year, the success of the United Way campaign depends on the dedication of hundreds of volunteers from local businesses and the community, working alongside the Board of Directors and staff to ensure the campaign is efficient, effective, and compassionate. Once funds are raised, the responsibility shifts to the Fund Distribution Committee, a group of experienced volunteers from all four parishes. This committee carefully evaluates community needs, monitors funded agencies, and guides the distribution of donations to ensure that resources are directed where they are needed most. With these strong checks and balances in place, donors can feel confident that their contributions are used responsibly and effectively.
Thank you for your continued commitment to making our community a better place and for playing an important role in our shared history of helping those in need.