We’re not just a nonprofit — we’re an impact organization. United Way of Amarillo & Canyon’s Community Impact Department turns research into real change, funds into futures, and people into power.
What Is Community Impact?
We are the stewards of community generosity, ensuring that every dollar raised is strategically invested in programs and services that make the greatest impact across Randall and Potter Counties. Through a rigorous and data-driven allocation process, we prioritize funding for the initiatives that address the most pressing needs in our region.
But funding is just the beginning.
Our Community Impact team researches local challenges, connects community partners, and leads collaborative efforts to create long-term, sustainable change. We develop comprehensive reports, like the Community Status Report, that shed light on the realities facing our neighbors particularly ALICE+ households, those who are working hard but living just one crisis away from financial instability.
We also cultivate the next generation of changemakers through youth engagement efforts like the Youth Cabinet, empowering high school students to understand community needs and take action.
Every decision we make is guided by a commitment to equity, transparency, and results. Whether it’s supporting essential services, advocating for systems change, or building capacity in local nonprofits, our goal is clear: To ensure every individual and family in Amarillo and Canyon has the opportunity to thrive.
This is impact with intention. This is United Way.
Our Key Programs
How We Drive Change
Allocations Council
Local volunteers serving review applications, meet with community programs, and make funding recommendations to help solve our community’s toughest challenges.
Change4Change
Elementary students collect change to create change. This fun competition teaches youth the power of giving — and ends in a pizza party for the winning classroom!
Youth Cabinet
High school students become community changemakers through leadership development, fundraising, site visits, and a Youth Leadership Day attended by 300+ students.
Community Status Report
Our annual research report identifies the greatest needs in our region, especially among ALICE+ (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households unhoused or at-risk.
Read More>
Program Provider Luncheons
Quarterly events that build fellowship and provide critical updates to our funded program partners — strengthening collaboration across the nonprofit sector.
The ALICE+ Mission
ALICE+ stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — individuals and families who work hard, often at multiple jobs, but still struggle to afford the basic cost of living. The “+” includes those living in poverty and those on the brink, one unexpected crisis away from instability.
In Randall and Potter Counties, 45% of households are ALICE+. That means nearly half of our neighbors — essential workers, caregivers, recent graduates, and even seniors — face impossible choices every day: Do I pay for groceries or cover the electric bill? Do I fill this prescription or put gas in my car to get to work?
These are not distant problems. They are local, urgent, and solvable — together.
At United Way of Amarillo & Canyon, we are committed to illuminating the realities ALICE+ households face and investing in solutions that move families from surviving to thriving. Through the Community Status Report, we’ve identified the five most critical barriers to success:
- Health
- Education
- Financial Stability
- Basic Needs
- Youth Development
Our strategies and funding decisions are centered around removing those barriers for ALICE+ families — ensuring access to affordable healthcare, high-quality childcare, stable housing, and pathways to better employment.
This isn’t charity — it’s a strategy. A united community means all of us helping all of us.
How You Can Help
- Learn: Read our 2024 Community Status Report
- Give: Donate to support local programs addressing ALICE+ needs
- Advocate: Share their stories and the data that backs them
- Volunteer: Join us in building a stronger, more equitable community
ALICE+ lives here. And with your help, so can opportunity.
Did you know?
ALICE+ makes up the largest population in need in Randall and Potter Counties.
Get Involved
Join the Movement
Help review funding applications or support youth projects.
Become a Voice for Change →