Good things happen when we LIVE UNITED. United Way tackles key issues around the focus areas of education, health, income and safety net services. More than 150,000 local people benefit from our funded health and human service programs. Our work is only possible with the great support demonstrated by the community, including over 1,400 volunteers and more than 19,000 contributors. We bring together businesses, community organizations, the educational community, labor and others to strengthen Berks County. By working with our 34 agency partners, nonprofits and trained volunteers we invest in strategies to create community change. By managing initiatives like 2-1-1 we connect people with community resources through a free, 24/7 Information & Referral service. We lead the community initiative Ready.Set.READ! to focus on early grade reading proficiency, and ultimately help kids achieve academic success and shape our community's future.