United Way of the Ozarks is proud to announce it will begin operating under a new name: United Way Ozarks Region. This change reflects the organization’s deep roots across the Ozarks and its ongoing mission to unite communities in championing children and providing lasting pathways out of poverty.

The new look of United Way Ozarks Region
For 95 years, United Way has stood beside families in southwest Missouri — investing in what matters most: strong starts for kids, stable homes, and brighter futures. The new name, United Way Ozarks Region, embraces the full identity of the people and places in our area, recognizing that while communities may differ in size or shape, they share a common vision for what it means to care for one another.
“We’re proud to unveil a name that better reflects who we are and where we serve,” said President and CEO, Brandi VanAntwerp. “United Way Ozarks Region honors the deep connections across our 14-county footprint and reinforces our unwavering commitment to championing children and creating pathways out of poverty throughout the Ozarks.”
The updated name also reinforces the organization’s longstanding belief that real, lasting change happens when people come together — across county lines, school districts, and city limits — to focus on what matters most. As ever, United Way Ozarks Region remains focused on helping children succeed, supporting hardworking families, and building stronger, more resilient communities.
“‘United is the Way’ isn’t just a slogan for us — it’s a call to action,” added Addie Ferber, Director of Communication and Events. “In the Ozarks, we look out for one another. This name change honors that truth.”
The transition to the new name is effective immediately and will appear across all communications and platforms in the coming weeks and months, with a completed transition anticipated by mid-September. The community will also notice a new, cleaner, more streamlined look in the online presence of the organization, including a refreshed website coming later this month.
For questions regarding this change, contact Addie Ferber, Director of Communication and Events.