The United Way model looks somewhat different in different locations, as founding groups adopt the essential values and activities of United Way, then adapt some features to local circumstances and cultures.

There are some features that remain the same no matter what. Our core values, shared characteristics, and common roles are defined in the Global Membership Requirements, and our aspirations to excellence are captured in the Global Standards.

This distinguishes United Ways from other types of nonprofit organizations:

We are not a one-issue organization… we address the most important human needs of our community—those which are most likely to improve overall quality of life. This can mean youth education in some places, bringing health and dignity to the elderly in others, helping those affected by HIV/AIDS, improving clean water and sanitation, and many more.

We are not an worldwide development organization… each United Way organization is part of a global network, but it is founded and run by people from that home community. Decisions are made locally, resources are raised locally, and results are achieved locally.

We are not an association… people from a single community who seek to promote their shared interests.

We are not a philanthropic foundation… which distributes funds to community level organizations to support their projects and programs, but does not share most of the values and characteristics of United Way, such as convening broad sectors of the community.