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February 11 is National 211 Day—a day to celebrate the incredible impact 211 Utah makes by connecting people to the help they need. Funded and operated by United Ways of Utah, 211 Utah is the single access point to more than 3,000 providers offering more than 10,000 local health and human services. From finding help with housing and utilities, to food and meal resources, to health care access and more, thousands of Utahns rely on 211 Utah when in crisis or difficult circumstances.
As Managing Director of 211 Utah, I have the privilege of supporting the compassionate professionals behind this work. Our dedicated team of Service Navigators, Database Curators, Disaster Specialists, and Outreach Coordinators works to ensure everyone can access help with ease and dignity. I invite you to read more about the impact of 211 Utah in our recent blog post. Your support helps ensure more Utahns can receive the help they need, when they need it most—thank you.
Sincerely,
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Todd McGee
211 Managing Director |
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PROGRAM UPDATE
Service Navigation Provides Comprehensive Support
211 Utah has evolved from simply providing information to offering comprehensive service navigation. Our compassionate, highly trained Service Navigators provide one-on-one support to help identify potential barriers and develop creative solutions tailored to each client’s unique situation. They follow up with clients to confirm they've successfully accessed the services needed and adjust plans as necessary. This hands-on approach makes all the difference in helping clients navigate complex systems and access critical resources with ease and dignity.
“They might be calling to get housing help, but then they explain a little bit about their situation. They may be unemployed or struggling with utilities or health care, so I am able to increase the scope of options I could offer to them. It’s not only about solving their housing concerns, because everything is connected."
-Nico, 211 Utah Service Navigator |
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DONOR SPOTLIGHT
Diamond Donors: Celebrating 20+ Years of Impact
Diamond Donors are an extraordinary group of individuals who have given consistently to United Way of Salt Lake for 20+ years. We are honored to feature Lori Harding, a Diamond Donor whose support has shaped United Way of Salt Lake’s work for nearly three decades. In addition to her decades of donating to United Way of Salt Lake, Harding dedicates her time, energy, and voice as a volunteer, member of Women United, and founding member of the Young Leader’s Association.
“Early in my career, I saw firsthand that United Way of Salt Lake wasn’t just raising funds — it was building lasting solutions, strengthening families, and creating opportunities for those who often go unseen,” Harding said. “United Way of Salt Lake proves that when people rally around the common good, real transformation happens; families find stability, children get the support they need to learn and thrive, and communities become places where everyone has the chance to succeed.”
Consistent generosity from Diamond Donors like Lori provides stability to neighbors in need, strengthens basic needs access, and transforms hope into change for Utah children and families. |
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VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Help Boost Literacy at Read Across America Day
Read Across America Day is on March 2! United Way of Salt Lake is celebrating all month by partnering with schools, community organizations, and volunteers to celebrate a love of books and share the importance of reading with thousands of Utah students.
You’re invited to be part of helping Utah students discover the joy of reading. You can sign up to volunteer at events in local schools or donate to help provide books for Utah students.
Thank you for helping us ensure that every child can explore, discover, and learn through books. Your support helps move the needle toward achieving Utah’s statewide literacy goal of 70% of third-grade students reading on grade level by 2027. Read our recent blog to learn more about Utah’s literacy efforts and why early reading matters. Together, we can help every child thrive, one book at a time. |
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ADVOCACY UPDATE
Support SB 165 Economic Mobility Initiative
We need your voice to help pass our top priority bill, SB 165 Economic Mobility Initiative. Also known as REACH (Raising Expectations through Accountability, Community, and Hope), this bill would support community-based partnerships across Utah and significantly improve outcomes like third-grade reading, high school graduation, and self-sufficiency.
Contact your state representatives and ask them to vote YES on both the bill and the investment needed to get the initiative off the ground.
We are also seeking a state appropriation during the 2026 legislative session to continue and expand vital services provided by 211 Utah. Make sure you sign up for Action Alerts and subscribe to our Policy Matters newsletter to stay up to date on our advocacy efforts throughout the legislative session. |
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
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National 211 Day
February 11, 2026
Learn about the impact of 211 Utah, connecting people in need with basic needs resources and support.
Learn More > |
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Women United Galentine’s Gathering
February 12, 2026
Women United members are invited to bring their gal pals for a book drive and valentine-making social.
Please contact adrienne.smith@uw.org for more information. |
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Legislative Reception
February 19, 2026
Join us at the Utah State Capitol Rotunda to meet with legislators and advocate for our policy priorities.
RSVP > |
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Read Across America Day
March 2, 2026
Help us promote a love of reading in elementary students across the Wasatch Front.
Learn More > |
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Power of Your Purse Gala
May 8, 2026
Save the date for an unforgettable evening at our annual gala hosted by Women United. More details coming soon. |
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