Inclusion and belonging are vital to achieving our mission, living our values and advancing the common good. United Way of Southern Maine (UWSM) fosters and promotes an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the contributions of all individuals and organizations in our work. We believe that bringing diverse perspectives and experiences strengthens our ability to create opportunities for a better life for all.

UWSM embraces a broad view of diversity, recognizing that beyond visible differences, each individual brings experiences, influences, skills, and perspectives. By engaging diverse talent and partners, we develop innovative solutions and cultivate shared ownership in addressing complex community issues.

UWSM seeks to dismantle disparities that exist and strives to engage all community members, including those whose voices have traditionally been marginalized or missing, in the shared work of building a better community for all. UWSM leverages all of our assets (e.g., convening, strategic investments, awareness building, advocacy) to build a more inclusive and thriving community.

We stand firmly against all forms of discrimination as they undermine the well-being and vitality of our community. Through partnerships and work with public and private partners, we to co-create solutions that ensure everyone has access to the resources, support, opportunities, and networks they need to thrive.

Approved by the UWSM Board of Directors on March 13, 2026