United Way of Summit & Medina - Akron, Ohio

United Way of Summit & Medina: A Community-Focused Resource

United Way of Summit & Medina stands as a vital social services organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families throughout Summit and Medina counties, Ohio. Located at 37 N High St, Akron, OH 44308, United States, this organization operates with the core mission of fostering self-sufficiency and community well-being. Their commitment is reflected in a comprehensive range of programs and services designed to address critical needs and empower residents to thrive. The phone number for direct contact is 3307627601, and visitors can find detailed information and resources on their website: uwsummitmedina.org.

Key Features and Services

United Way of Summit & Medina’s work is multifaceted, encompassing several key areas. They primarily focus on addressing basic needs, promoting education, and supporting health and financial stability. Some of their notable programs include:

• Financial Stability Programs: These initiatives aim to help individuals and families manage their finances, build savings, and avoid debt. This often involves offering financial literacy workshops and assistance with accessing resources like tax preparation services.
• Education Initiatives: Recognizing the importance of education for long-term success, United Way invests in programs that support children and youth, from early childhood education to college readiness.
• Health and Wellness Programs: These programs address critical health concerns and promote healthy lifestyles. They frequently partner with local healthcare providers to offer screenings, education, and access to vital services.
• Community Impact Grants: United Way provides grants to local non-profit organizations, amplifying their reach and impact within the community.
• Volunteer Opportunities: The organization actively encourages community involvement and provides numerous opportunities for residents to volunteer their time and skills.

The organization’s approach is rooted in collaboration, working closely with local government agencies, schools, businesses, and other non-profit organizations to maximize its impact. A significant element of their approach involves identifying and addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality, rather than simply providing temporary relief.

Location and Accessibility

The physical location at 37 N High St, Akron, OH 44308 is central to their operations, serving as a hub for program coordination and community engagement. Notably, the facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair-accessible car park and a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all individuals can easily access their services. This commitment to inclusivity demonstrates their dedication to serving the entire community.

Community Feedback and Reputation

United Way of Summit & Medina consistently receives positive feedback from the community. Currently, the organization boasts 53 reviews on Google My Business, with an average opinion of 4.5/5. These reviews consistently highlight the kindness, helpfulness, and dedication of the staff. Individuals frequently praise the organization for providing valuable services and creating a welcoming environment. The emphasis on personalized support and genuine care is a recurring theme in the feedback, solidifying their reputation as a trusted resource. The dedication to providing services like tax preparation, for example, as evidenced by one review stating “Just had taxes done. Wonderful, kind, helpful people there. Thank you for providing this service,” speaks volumes about their commitment to accessibility and support.

Additional Points of Interest

Beyond the core programs and services, United Way offers several additional resources to support the community. These include:

• Resource Navigation: Staff members are skilled at connecting individuals with the specific resources they need, streamlining the process of accessing support.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: United Way utilizes data and research to inform its programs and strategies, ensuring that they are effective and aligned with community needs.
• Community Events: The organization regularly hosts events to raise awareness about important issues and engage the community in positive action.

In essence, United Way of Summit & Medina is more than just an organization; it’s a cornerstone of the community, working tirelessly to build a brighter future for all its residents. Their dedication to social services and community well-being positions them as an invaluable asset to the region, offering a diverse range of support services and resources.

👍 Reviews of United Way of Summit & Medina

Mary E. C.

5/5

Just had taxes done. Wonderful, kind, helpful people there. Thank you for providing this service.

Ishmael

5/5

First, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to United Way of Summit & Medina for your incredible work in our community. I had the privilege of receiving help from Leesa Bruback. Her kindness, professionalism, honesty, intelligence, humor, and warmth truly put me at ease with my housing situation.

Although it might be her job to do what she did, I am deeply grateful for the support she provided. Given my current situation, I truly appreciate any help I can get, especially from someone who clearly cares about their work.

Being homeless far from home, can be overwhelming, but talking to someone so dedicated to helping me, despite my situation, brought me comfort and joy. She brightened my day and put a genuine smile on my face.

There are many out there struggling with addiction, homelessness, or trauma. I hope they find the support they need to inspire positive change in their lives and the motivation to uplift others.

P.S. Whoever took your company photos did an outstanding job. Everyone looks wonderful. And I hope everyone enjoys this beautiful morning.

Thank you, Leesa.

Best regards,
Call me Ishmael.

Brett S.

1/5

If you want an unlicensed, non- lawyer giving you and your family legal advice, then by all means go to them. The idiot told my wife and I to get divorced then remarry. The non- lawyer also shook us down for $10 cash. This is a charity giving out legal advice without license and without a right to practice law. We were naive but smart enough to spot a crooked operation.

Christa S.

5/5

I have attended many training classes, and have had several opportunities for learning and growth in this building. They are truly having a positive impact on the community in more ways than we have traditionally thought of the United Way. Keep up the great work!

B T.

1/5

Hello,
. I am writing today to express my struggles and experience with United Way of Summit County.
I brought my taxes for them to prepare on March 2nd. This year was complicated due to multiple 1099s, and being on unemployment. I usually file myself, but this year was incredibly important for the fact I need this money to survive, the pandemic really hit me hard.
Upon filing i sensed a hurried feeling inside the facility. When the United way tax prepper brought my finished taxes she forgot to recieve a document I had emailed an associate of hers. We get that handled, while noticing the lack of communication inside the United way. She rushes all the info to me and sends me on my way.
Fast forward to March 12th. Irs tracker shows it was deposited into my bank. I call my bank and they say I have nothing pending. Fast forward to March 16th after checking with my bank they show nothing pending. Upon research I noticed that my bank account number wrong its missing one digit. I provided a PRINTED 1040 from my 2019 taxes to use for my account and routing number. This account is still open and active. I proceed to call United way, where the tax prepper then accuses me of handing them a hand written paper with my bank information, that is simply not the truth. I handed the United Way Tax Prepper all printed documents, so that my handwriting did not mess anything up. The person that recieved the files from me must have written my account number down wrong. So here we are today March 17th not only finding out I'm not going to see my return for 8-10 weeks, but my stimulus was also sent off my 2020 taxes. I needed this money, my well being was dependent off this. I'm 450 dollars in the negatives with my car payment passed due and no food, and all United way can tell me is "sorry". I brought my taxes to them to be done right. Now all I get is just wait you will be okay. The truth is I won't be okay. All I'm asking is for guidance on how to pay my bills until the problem they created is resolved I'm sure nobody will see this email or care, but I had to write this out. Thank you.

George C.

5/5

Great program, especially the financial center and the VITA program. Rebecca and crew are the greatest! Very valuable resource for the community. Glad to be a part of it!

Nancy F.

1/5

Been getting the run around there and now I have to get a community program to go through before they'll help me but I was with 2 of those places and they are the ones who didn't help me and made me homeless

Annette H.

4/5

The United Way continues to surprise me. From personal experience, the staff there has always been quick to return calls and very helpful. Thank you for all that you guys do for people who need a little help!