As a result, the women were left to fend for themselves and their families. United Way Worldwide, in collaboration with local partners, worked with the women to provide training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and access to resources such as microloans. This not only empowered the women to start their own businesses but also helped boost the local economy.

By being present in the community, listening to their needs, and collaborating with local leaders and organizations, United Way Worldwide was able to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the people in Kwamoso. This approach of investing in people and communities is at the core of their mission and is a testament to the power of partnership and collaboration.

During the conversation at Davos 2025, Angela F. Williams emphasized the importance of seeing each other as human beings first and foremost, regardless of differences in politics, nationality, or appearance. This message of love and humanity resonates not only in her personal beliefs but also in the work that United Way Worldwide does in communities around the world.

As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges such as economic inequality, access to healthcare, and environmental sustainability, the need for organizations like United Way Worldwide becomes ever more crucial. By investing in people, listening to their needs, and working collaboratively with local partners, United Way Worldwide is able to create positive change and empower individuals to thrive.

At Davos 2025, the conversation between Shelley Stewart III and Angela F. Williams shed light on the importance of community engagement, partnership, and a human-centric approach to solving global problems. As we look to the future, it is clear that investing in people and communities will be key to building a more inclusive and sustainable world for all.

Collaboration in the intelligent age is crucial for building stronger and more resilient economies, especially in light of the rapid changes we are experiencing. At United Way, collaboration has always been at the core of our work, dating back to our founding 137 years ago. We currently cover more than 95 percent of communities in the United States and are expanding our reach in other countries as well.

One of the key aspects of collaboration for us is partnering with businesses to support their lower-wage earners. By investing in households and individuals in a community, we are not only improving the lives of those individuals but also creating a healthier and more attractive environment for businesses to operate in. Businesses are increasingly looking at factors such as the health of the community, the quality of the school systems, and the economic opportunities available when deciding where to establish their operations.

One example of successful collaboration and investment in communities is the work we have done with women entrepreneurs in underserved areas. With the support of the P&G Foundation, we were able to launch three businesses – a bakery, a bead-manufacturing business, and a soap manufacturing business – with a total investment of $14,000. These women have not only turned their own lives around but have also trained hundreds of other women from different villages to launch their own bakeries. This kind of investment has a ripple effect, creating opportunities for generational wealth and economic growth.

Another important aspect of collaboration in the intelligent age is the focus on preventive healthcare measures. By investing in the health of communities and reducing emergency room visits, we can create a healthier population that is able to work and contribute to the economy. This kind of investment not only benefits individuals but also has a positive impact on the overall economy.

Ultimately, collaboration in the intelligent age means working together across nations, sectors, and institutions to address the complex challenges we are facing. By listening to the needs of communities, investing in individuals and households, and partnering with businesses to support their employees, we can create stronger and more resilient economies that benefit everyone.

Williams: Affordable housing is a critical issue that affects so many aspects of people’s lives. Without stable housing, it is difficult to maintain employment, stay healthy, or support a family. United Way recognizes the importance of addressing the housing crisis and has been working on various initiatives to help provide affordable housing options for those in need.

One of the key aspects of tackling the affordable housing crisis is to increase the availability of affordable housing units. This can be achieved through a combination of policies, incentives, and partnerships with private developers and government agencies. United Way has been involved in advocating for policies that promote affordable housing and working with partners to develop affordable housing projects in communities across the country.

Another important aspect of addressing the housing crisis is to provide support services for individuals and families who are struggling with housing insecurity. This can include financial assistance, case management, and access to resources that can help individuals find and maintain stable housing. United Way’s 211 helpline plays a crucial role in connecting individuals in crisis with the resources they need to secure safe and affordable housing.

In addition to providing support services, United Way also works to raise awareness about the importance of affordable housing and the impact it has on communities. By engaging with stakeholders, policymakers, and the public, United Way aims to build a collective understanding of the housing crisis and drive action to address it.

Overall, the housing crisis is a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach. United Way is committed to working with partners across sectors to address the root causes of the crisis and create sustainable solutions that ensure everyone has access to safe and affordable housing. By collaborating with stakeholders and advocating for policies that support affordable housing, United Way is making a tangible impact on the lives of individuals and families in need. The Importance of Affordable Housing: A Collaborative Approach

Affordable housing is a pressing issue that affects communities around the world, but particularly in the United States. Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, highlights the critical need for affordable housing and the impact it has on individuals and families.

Williams points out that the lack of affordable housing is causing people to be outpriced from their homes, leading to displacement and homelessness. She emphasizes the importance of innovative solutions and collaboration between local officials, nonprofits, and corporations to address this complex issue.

Shelley Stewart III, Chairman of United Way Worldwide, further underscores the connection between affordable housing and access to basic social services, education, and employment opportunities. He stresses the need to solve the affordable housing crisis to ensure that all individuals have a place to live.

Williams shares examples of successful collaborations, such as the partnership with the Siemer Institute to address homelessness and provide support for families in need. She also highlights the importance of addressing the social needs of children, such as shelter and food, to ensure they can thrive in school and become contributing citizens in the future.

As the conversation shifts to the geopolitical landscape, Williams discusses how United Way remains relevant and serves communities in times of crisis, such as the Ukrainian war. She highlights the organization’s agility in responding to conflicts and providing support for refugees through various initiatives.

Technology and AI are also key considerations for United Way, as Williams emphasizes the importance of embracing technology to enhance the organization’s impact. She acknowledges the challenges of funding and expertise but emphasizes the need for collaboration with partners who can help leverage AI in their work.

In conclusion, the conversation between Williams and Stewart underscores the importance of affordable housing, collaboration, and technology in addressing social challenges and creating positive change in communities worldwide. By working together and embracing innovation, organizations like United Way can continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need.

The Importance of Embracing AI and Technology in the Nonprofit Sector

In a recent AI session, Angela F. Williams, CEO of United Way Worldwide, expressed her concerns about the organization’s need to embrace AI and technology in a meaningful way. She highlighted the potential loss for the nonprofit sector if organizations like United Way Worldwide fail to leverage these advancements effectively. With a network of over 20,000 partner nonprofits, United Way Worldwide has a unique opportunity and responsibility to harness AI to address systemic inequalities and prevent marginalized individuals from being left behind.

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation, it is crucial for organizations in the nonprofit sector to adapt and embrace these changes. The ability to leverage AI can enhance operational efficiency, drive social impact, and ultimately ensure the sustainability of organizations like United Way Worldwide.

The Role of AI in Addressing Systemic Inequalities

AI has the potential to revolutionize the way nonprofits operate and deliver impact. By harnessing the power of data analytics and machine learning, organizations can gain valuable insights, improve decision-making processes, and optimize resource allocation. This is particularly important in addressing systemic inequalities and bridging the gap between those who have access to resources and those who do not.

With the help of AI-driven solutions, nonprofits can identify areas of need more effectively, target interventions where they are most needed, and track outcomes in real-time. This level of precision and efficiency can lead to more impactful programs and interventions that address root causes of social issues and drive sustainable change.

Key Opportunities and Challenges in Adopting AI

While the potential benefits of AI in the nonprofit sector are significant, there are also challenges that organizations must navigate. One of the key challenges is the need for organizations to build internal capacity and expertise in AI. This requires investing in training and upskilling staff, as well as developing partnerships with tech companies and experts in the field.

Another challenge is the ethical considerations surrounding AI, particularly in terms of data privacy and bias. Nonprofits must ensure that they are using AI in a responsible and ethical manner, taking into account the potential risks and implications of their actions.

Despite these challenges, there are significant opportunities for nonprofits to leverage AI to drive social impact. By embracing technology and innovation, organizations can enhance their ability to deliver services, engage with stakeholders, and measure outcomes in a more meaningful way.

Market Trends and Industry Insights

The nonprofit sector is undergoing a digital transformation, with organizations increasingly turning to technology to enhance their operations and impact. According to a report by McKinsey, nonprofits that invest in digital capabilities are more likely to achieve their mission and deliver value to their stakeholders.

AI is playing a key role in this transformation, with organizations using machine learning algorithms to analyze data, predict outcomes, and optimize processes. This trend is expected to continue as nonprofits seek to become more data-driven and evidence-based in their decision-making.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital technologies in the nonprofit sector, with organizations relying on virtual platforms and online tools to deliver services and engage with stakeholders. This shift towards digitalization has highlighted the importance of AI and technology in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of nonprofits in a rapidly changing world.

Actionable Recommendations for Nonprofits

Based on the insights and trends discussed above, here are some actionable recommendations for nonprofits looking to embrace AI and technology:

• Invest in training and upskilling staff to build internal capacity in AI.
• Develop partnerships with tech companies and experts in AI to access specialized knowledge and resources.
• Ensure that AI initiatives are aligned with the organization’s mission and values, with a focus on ethical considerations.
• Use data analytics and machine learning to identify areas of need, target interventions effectively, and measure outcomes in real-time.
• Stay informed about market trends and industry insights to remain competitive and innovative in a rapidly changing landscape.

FAQ

Q: How can nonprofits leverage AI to address systemic inequalities?

A: Nonprofits can leverage AI to identify areas of need, target interventions effectively, and measure outcomes in real-time. By using data analytics and machine learning, organizations can optimize resource allocation and drive sustainable change.

Q: What are the key challenges in adopting AI for nonprofits?

A: Key challenges include building internal capacity and expertise in AI, addressing ethical considerations around data privacy and bias, and navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and innovation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the adoption of AI and technology is crucial for nonprofits like United Way Worldwide to remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world. By embracing these advancements, organizations can enhance their ability to address systemic inequalities, drive social impact, and ensure the sustainability of their programs and interventions.

As we look ahead to the future, it is imperative for nonprofits to invest in digital capabilities, build internal capacity in AI, and stay informed about market trends and industry insights. By doing so, organizations can position themselves for success and continue to make a meaningful difference in the communities they serve.