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Author: Meg Costa

Kids play at United Way's 2025 Summer Meals Kickoff

Summer Fun with a Purpose

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

Sunshine, snow cones and smiles were in full supply at the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Summer Meals Kickoff, held June 12 at the West Dallas Multipurpose Center. This fun-filled event brought together more than 1,200 children, families, volunteers and community partners to celebrate the start of our Summer Meals program—and to take a stand against childhood hunger in North Texas. 

The Summer Meals program is an important component of our mission to improve access to education, income and health—the building blocks of opportunity. Hunger limits a child’s ability to succeed in school, a worker’s ability to advance in their career and a family’s ability to truly thrive. Food security initiatives are foundational to our work, and programs like Summer Meals directly support our Aspire United 2030 goals.  

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere at the Summer Meals Kickoff buzzed with excitement. Families enjoyed free meals provided by our partner Dallas ISD, refreshing snow cones, crafts and inflatables for the kids, and live music that kept the energy high. Raffle prizes added an extra layer of fun, while volunteers led engaging activities that promoted healthy living and food access. 

A Community United Against Hunger 

The Summer Meals Kickoff wasn’t just about fun—it was a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together. As Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton President & CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, shared: 

“Summer should be a time for fun, not hunger. The Summer Meals Kickoff brings the community together to make sure no child in North Texas goes hungry. We’re proud to address food insecurity head-on, while also celebrating the power of volunteers and the impact of local partnerships.” 

The event also connected families with nutrition education, local resources and enrichment opportunities, helping to build a stronger safety net for those facing food insecurity during the summer months. 

Ashley Douglas, vice president of Southern Dallas Thrives at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, wants more North Texans to know that for many of their neighbors, summer is the hungriest season of the year.  

“When the school year ends, many of our scholars and families lose access to daily meals provided on school campuses, affecting both the nutrition of local children and the financial stability of families,” she said. “The goal is to increase awareness of available resources, bridging the gap in lack of access and addressing food security across our communities.”  

The impact of programs like Summer Meals is significant. In the most recent year on record, summer meals programming across North Texas supported more than 1.5 million meals served to nearly 50,000 children in Dallas and Collin counties alone.  

Celebrating 100 Years of Impact 

This year’s event held special significance as part of United Way’s 100th anniversary in North Texas. For a century, we’ve united our community to create lasting change—and the Summer Meals Kickoff was a shining example of that legacy in action. 

Now through November 15, we’re celebrating our first century of community impact while rallying change-seekers like you to be part of our next 100 years of meaningful change.  

For volunteers like Alicia Cooper, community outreach coordinator at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, the Summer Meals Kickoff was an opportunity to make a direct and immediate impact on our neighbors. 

“Blue Cross recognizes that food security is very important, especially in the summer for kids,” she said. “This is near and dear to our hearts, so we wanted to come out and support United Way and the kids in this neighborhood. Giving back is really true to who I am and what our company is all about. It’s always good to give to people who are under-championed and underserved in the community to help them out.” 

Our Partners Are Creating Meaningful Impact 

Events like this demonstrate the power of our collaborative approach to community impact. We’re deeply grateful to the sponsors who made this event possible: 

  • Volunteer Series Sponsor: Texas Instruments 
  • Gold Presenting Sponsors: Kellogg, Mr. Cooper Group, Toyota 
  • Silver Supporting Sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Shield, DN Tanks, Tenet Health, Vistra  

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going 

Together, we can build a North Texas where every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and succeed—no matter the season. Invest in United Way of Metropolitan Dallas to support food security programs that help children and families thrive—not just in summer, but all year long. 

Give Now 

Opening Doors to Opportunity: Explore the New Workforce Training Hub in Southern Dallas

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

We’re thrilled to share some exciting news that marks a big step forward for our community and the people we serve. On May 22, we joined our partners Arcosa, the PepsiCo Foundation and Dallas College to unveil a brand-new community workforce training center at Dallas College’s RedBird location. This isn’t just a new space—it’s a powerful symbol of what’s possible when corporate, nonprofit and educational partners come together with a shared vision for change. 

This initiative is just the latest example of how United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and our partners are collaborating to drive measurable change and move closer to our Aspire United 2030 goals—our North Star for driving transformational change and improving access to education, income and health throughout North Texas. 

Creating Opportunity in Southern Dallas 

This initiative, part of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas’ Southern Dallas Thrives program, is focused on boosting careers, supporting families and advancing long-term economic mobility across Southern Dallas. The new training center will serve as a welcoming hub for individuals looking to develop new skills, earn industry credentials, and access career opportunities in high-demand fields like HVAC, logistics, IT and, transportation, hospitality. 

A look inside the new RedBird workforce development center

Over the next three years, this collaborative effort is expected to support at least 350 individuals through occupational training, financial coaching, career navigation and essential wraparound services such as food access and transportation assistance. Thanks to more than $1.3 million in impact investments from Arcosa and the PepsiCo Foundation, we’re building a sustainable, scalable model that’s already inspiring other community-based locations. 

By providing support services in addition to workforce training, this initiative aims to reduce the barriers that keep many of our neighbors from completing certification courses and higher degrees.  

As Ashley Douglas, vice president of our Southern Dallas Thrives initiative, told The Dallas Morning News, “You can’t think about workforce development if you haven’t eaten in two days. You can’t consider being able to show up to a workforce development class if you have nowhere for your child to be during that time, or you don’t have transportation to get to this location. Being able to support them and provide those wraparound resource services so that they can focus on curriculum and completion is our goal.”  

Jennifer Sampson, CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, shared at the event, “Today is about more than an unveiling of a physical space. It’s about creating real opportunities for hardworking individuals and families.” 

Workforce Challenges in North Texas 

Today, qualifying for a good-paying job typically means acquiring a certification, a degree or specialized training after high school. About 60% of jobs in Texas will require post-secondary education, but only 22% of Texans earn a degree or credential after high school, The Dallas Morning News reported in their article about the RedBird workforce center. 

Initiatives like the new workforce center are one way United Way and our partners connect more workers with expanded job opportunities. This helps ensure our region has a strong pool of skilled workers, which supports our economy now and in the future. 

Our key Aspire United 2030 goal in the area of income is to increase by 20% the number of North Texas young adults who earn a living wage by 2030. This would add an estimated $800 million annually to our region’s economy, making this a goal that would benefit all of North Texas.  

We’re Driving Generational Change 

For the workers who will access services through the RedBird workforce center, the additional training and new career opportunities mean a chance at financial stability, which supports the health of their entire family and the educational success of their children.  

That’s what we’re here for—to unlock opportunities and remove barriers in ways that create generational change across North Texas. Together with our partners, we’re creating a ripple effect of positive change that uplifts not just individuals, but entire communities. 

Be Part of the Change 

This new workforce center is just one example of the innovative, community-driven solutions we’re committed to supporting. But we can’t do it alone. Your support makes this kind of transformation possible. 

Here are two ways to support our financial stability initiatives right now: 

  • Donate today to help us expand workforce development, education and financial stability programs across North Texas. Click here to invest today. 
  • Volunteer your time and talents to support workforce development initiatives in our community. Check out our current volunteer opportunities here. This month we’re seeking volunteers to provide admin support for our partner Empowering the Masses, which offers digital skills and literacy classes, phlebotomy courses, community health worker training and more. 

Let’s keep building a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.  

group of graduates

When Students Succeed, Communities Thrive: Advancing College and Career Readiness in North Texas

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

Each spring, as high school seniors across North Texas don their caps and gowns, they carry with them not only dreams for the future, but also the hopes of an entire community. Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating, yet for many students, it marks the beginning of a challenging transition into college or the workforce—one filled with uncertainty around rising education costs, evolving job demands and ongoing economic volatility. 

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we believe that preparing students for success after high school isn’t just important for the individual—it’s critical for the health, stability and prosperity of our entire region. College and career readiness lies at the intersection of education, income and health—the three building blocks of opportunity that shape both personal outcomes and community wellbeing. 

Read on to learn more about the importance of college and career readiness, our programs that support early success for young North Texans, and how you can get involved.  

What Is College and Career Readiness? 

College and career readiness means that students graduate from high school equipped with the skills, knowledge and real-world experiences needed to thrive in higher education or a living-wage career. It’s not a destination—it’s a journey that starts in early childhood and continues through every grade level. 

That journey requires more than just classroom instruction. It takes a network of support—parents, educators, mentors and community members—all working together to provide the tools, resources and opportunities students need to reach their full potential. 

“It takes a village to prepare students for life after high school—and that means going beyond academics,” said Greg Mangum, vice president of economic mobility at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. “Our programs and partnerships take a holistic approach to readiness. We help students build the knowledge and skills to succeed, while also connecting them with mentors, career exposure and support. When young people are equipped to thrive in college or the workplace, it strengthens families, communities and the future of North Texas.” 

Why It Matters—For All of Us 

The benefits of college and career readiness ripple far beyond the student. When young people are set up for long-term success, it leads to: 

  • Economic strength: A well-prepared workforce attracts investment, drives innovation and powers local businesses. 
  • Public health improvements: Education is strongly linked to health outcomes, and financially secure individuals are more likely to access healthcare and live healthier lives. 
  • Stronger neighborhoods: Families supported by living wages are more likely to remain stably housed, invest in their communities and contribute to local civic life. 

“In North Texas, the future of our workforce and the health of our economy depend on students who are ready to step into opportunity,” said Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton President and CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. “Education, income and health are not isolated issues—they’re deeply connected. When we support one, we uplift all three.” 

The Reality in North Texas 

Despite the high stakes, only about 30% of North Texas students graduate fully prepared for college or a career. This gap in readiness limits access to higher education, reduces earning potential and strains our local talent pipeline, which, over time, can negatively impact our workforce and economy. 

The challenge often begins early: Students who aren’t reading proficiently by third grade and who live in poverty are 13 times less likely to graduate on time than their peers. And today, nearly three-quarters of young adults in our region don’t earn a living wage, putting pressure on public services and limiting economic mobility for families. 

Meanwhile, 85% of good-paying jobs in North Texas require education beyond high school, yet too few students are reaching that level of preparedness. 

Building a Future-Ready North Texas 

To ensure that every student has a fair shot at success—and to secure the long-term health of our region—we must continue investing in early learning, access to digital tools, college savings and workforce exposure. 

This work is central to our Aspire United 2030 goals, which include increasing by 20% the number of young adults in North Texas who earn a living wage. Reaching that milestone could generate nearly $800 million in new wages every year—a transformational shift for individuals and our economy. 

But we know students don’t chart these paths alone. They need early exposure, practical support and meaningful connections to career opportunities that can lead to long-term stability and growth. 

United Way Initiatives That Drive Readiness 

Here are a few of the programs we lead or support to equip students for success: 

  • Digital Bridges, with support from AT&T: Provides families in Southern Dallas with free laptops, tech training and ongoing support—giving students the tools to succeed in today’s digital learning and work environments. 
  • Dollars for College: Makes it easy for low- and moderate-income families to start and grow college savings accounts—proven to significantly increase a student’s odds of enrolling in and completing higher education. 
  • Once Upon a Month™: This partnership with the Ferst Foundation and Boone Family Foundation delivers free, age-appropriate books to young children monthly, supporting early literacy and lifelong learning. (It’s never too early to prepare a child for college or a career; in fact, researchers have found that children reading on grade level by the end of third grade are five times more likely to be college or career ready than their peers who aren’t reading proficiently.) 
  • Start Smart Texas: A free texting program for parents of young children, offering tips and tools to support learning at home and prepare kids for school success from the very beginning. 

Get Involved: Join the Movement for Student Success 

Creating a North Texas where every student can succeed requires all of us. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, employer or community-minded neighbor, you have a role to play in shaping a brighter future for our youth—and our community. 

We invite all of North Texas to work together to support college and career readiness, both during graduation season and throughout the year.  

  • Volunteer: Throughout our year-long Centennial anniversary, we’re offering a range of volunteer opportunities that directly encourage college and career readiness, including Stock the School, slated for August 1. Fill out our volunteer interest form here.  
  • Invest in lasting change: Make a donation to United Way of Metropolitan Dallas to support initiatives that encourage student success at every grade level, prepare high schoolers for life after graduation and expose young workers to career opportunities. For example, a $50 contribution to Dollars for College seed one college savings account for a local student, opening the door to college success, better job opportunities and greater economic mobility. Click here to make your donation now. 

When we invest in students, we invest in a stronger, more equitable region. Because when young people are ready to thrive, North Texas thrives, too. 

young couple with keys in their hand

We’re Calling on Texas Lawmakers to Increase Affordable Housing Solutions and Ensure Housing Stability

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

During this 89th Texas Legislative Session, lawmakers have filed 200+ housing-related bills. The Texas Legislature prioritized affordable housing during the interim and during this legislative session, in response to rising home prices in communities across the state and nation. There are simply not enough affordable housing options to meet the growing demand.  

Housing is Foundational to Our Mission 

Attainable housing and housing stability are intricately linked to United Way of Metropolitan Dallas’ mission of improving access to education, income and health to ensure that all North Texans have an opportunity to thrive. Throughout the years, we have worked with community partners and local and statewide housing coalitions to increase housing affordability and housing stability, reduce and end homelessness, and prevent evictions through our Targeted Eviction Prevention Program.  

These collective efforts have resulted in reducing homelessness and keeping our neighbors housed.  

The State of Homelessness in North Texas 

On May 20 during the 2025 State of Homelessness Address for Dallas and Collin Counties, Housing Forward and the All Neighbors Coalition, which United Way of Dallas is a member of, announced for the fourth consecutive year a reduction homelessness (5% decrease from the previous year), with nearly 16,000 individuals housed since 2021.  

Additionally, Housing Forward President and CEO Sarah Kahn announced an effective end to street homelessness in Downtown Dallas, meaning no one is living or sleeping on the streets of downtown, and pathways off the street will be immediately activated for anyone new through dynamic, multidisciplinary response teams. You can read more here about this sustained progress and plans to expand efforts throughout Dallas and Collin counties. 

How We’re Advocating for Affordable Housing 

United Way of Dallas continues to partner with community agencies and local and state housing advocacy organizations on the frontend to achieve housing stability and prevent homelessness. Throughout the legislative session, we have been monitoring housing-related bills, submitting public comments, and mobilizing the advocacy community around various pieces of legislation.  

Earlier this month, our team joined advocates from North Texas and across the state in the inaugural Housing Day at the Dome at the Texas State Capitol. This advocacy day, organized by Dallas Housing Coalition, provided an opportunity to collectively engage with more than 75 House and Senate state legislative offices and champion meaningful, equitable housing solutions for the North Texas region. Read more here about Housing Day at the Dome. 

An Urgent Request: Advocate with Us Now! 

As we are approaching the finish-line of this legislative session with looming deadlines for House and Senate bills to be heard and voted on before session adjourns on June 2, the urgency remains to contact House and Senate lawmakers to oppose or support key bills.  

We call on all supporters of affordable housing and housing stability to contact their representatives and voice opposition or support for the following bills.    

*Since the publication of this blog post, the following legislative updates are reflected below:  

  • OPPOSE – SB 38 would overhaul the eviction process for lease-holding tenants and weaken due process protections for Texas renters. UPDATE: Passed the House but includes two important amendments, which United Way supports. The amendments require that, in cases where a tenant is only late on one month’s payment, notice must be given in the form of a notice to pay rent or vacate (Rep. Hayes Amendment) and that the summary disposition process is only applicable to squatters (Rep. Gates Amendment).
  • OPPOSE – SB 2623 would restrict a nonprofit from providing “navigation services”—including meals, benefits assistance and other services—within 1,500 feet of a school, institute of higher education or park if that nonprofit site serves any homeless individuals. UPDATE: Died in Calendars Committee.
  • SUPPORT – SB 15/HB 3919 would reduce minimum lot size requirements in new neighborhoods. UPDATE: Passed both chambers and is headed to governor’s desk.
  • SUPPORT – SB 840/HB 3404 would allow residential and mixed-use development on commercially zoned land and further incentivizes office-to-residential conversions. UPDATE: Passed both chambers and is headed to governor’s desk.
  • SUPPORT – SB 673 would legalize backyard cottages, garage apartments and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) statewide, giving homeowners more freedom to house a loved one or create an affordable rental unit. UPDATE: Died after passing out of Calendars Committee; failed to meet House deadline.
  • SUPPORT – SB 208/HB 4505 would create a $50 million revolving loan fund for nonprofit, single-family developers. UPDATE: Bill is dead; did not pass out of Senate.  
  • SUPPORT – SB 600/HB 4011 would amend the Uniform Partition of Heirs’ Property Act to enhance the generational transfer of wealth and the housing stability of family members who inherit their relatives’ homes. UPDATE: This legislation is dead; left pending in Senate Business & Commerce Committee   
  • SUPPORT – SB 854/HB 3172, known as the “Yes in God’s Backyard” bill, would allow faith institutions to build housing on their land to serve their communities and increase our tax base in most cases. UPDATE: Died in Senate; bill passed out of Senate local Government Committee.     
  • SUPPORT – SB 2835 would enable municipalities to allow for a single-stair apartment construction—an approach that optimizes land use, enhances fire safety and supports the creation of more affordable housing. UPDATE: Passed both chambers and is headed to Governor’s desk.
  • SUPPORT – SB 844/HB 24  would create landowner veto reform. UPDATE: Passed the Senate

Join Our Advocacy Movement  

These remaining days of the legislative session will be critical to elevate our collective voices in opposition and support of this important legislation. While most of these bills may or may not become law, the power of collective advocacy has already resulted in significantly amending harmful bills that would result in homelessness and opening the door for future legislation and public policies promoting affordable housing solutions and wealth-building through home ownership.  

Throughout the 89th Texas legislative session and at the federal level, we’re advocating for key bills that will improve access to education, income and health in North Texas. We invite you to join hundreds of your fellow advocates as we speak up, united, for the issues that matter most.  

We make it easy to advocate for our community. Sign up for our Advocacy Alerts, and we’ll let you know when and how to contact your elected officials to make the biggest possible impact.  

Emmanual Acho at Bush Center event

Unlocking Audacious Change: A Community Conversation with Emmanuel Acho

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

On April 24, the George W. Bush Presidential Center welcomed Emmanuel Acho to Southern Methodist University for an unforgettable Community Conversation, moderated by Bush Center President and CEO Ken Hersh. United Way of Metropolitan Dallas was honored to be one of the sponsors of the evening, which brought together change-seekers, community leaders and bold thinkers from across North Texas. 

Emmanuel Acho—a former NFL player, a #1 New York Times bestselling author and an unflinching voice for social impact—delivered an electrifying dialogue on purpose, justice and what it takes to spark real, lasting change. The conversation was informative, humorous and deeply moving, resonating with everyone in the audience who believes in our mission of making North Texas the best place to live, work and raise a family. 

Highlights from the Conversation 

Read on for some of Emmanuel’s most powerful insights from this engaging talk:  

On Calling:
“Your calling is your calling, not a conference call.”
Emmanuel reminded us that purpose is personal. Whether you’re contemplating a career shift or stepping into leadership, the path you feel drawn to is yours alone to walk—and you don’t need consensus to follow it. 

On Justice and Empathy:
“Justice won’t be served until those that are unaffected are as outraged as those that are affected.”
With clarity and conviction, Emmanuel challenged the audience to stand in solidarity, not only when they are impacted, but especially when they are not. True justice, he argued, demands proximity, empathy and shared courage. 

On Common Ground:
“The common opponent is not each other. The common opponent is hate. The common opponent is oppression.”
Drawing from his experience in NFL locker rooms, Emmanuel illuminated how shared purpose can transcend difference. In society, he said, we must unite against the real adversaries—division, inequality and fear. 

On Moral Responsibility:
“If you can do something for the greater good—and do it better than most—you are morally irresponsible not to do it.”
These words resonated deeply with a crowd committed to service and impact, serving as both a challenge and a call to action. 

View the Video On-Demand 

Whether you were in the room or missed it live, this is a conversation worth hearing in full. Click below to watch the video on demand and be inspired to shift mindsets, pursue bold goals and lead meaningful change—in your own life and right here at home in North Texas. 

 

What’s Next?  

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we have several exciting and impactful events on the horizon, as the entire Live United movement celebrates United Way’s Centennial anniversary with special events, speakers and volunteer opportunities.   

Join the World’s Largest Corporate Running Event   

Connect with your colleagues, support employee wellbeing and network with your local business community on Thursday, May 8 at the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge, a fun-filled event that will benefit United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. Learn more and sign up.   

Volunteer to Support Food Security   

As part of our Aspire United 2030 Volunteer Series presented by Texas Instruments, we’re holding a Summer Meals Kickoff on Thursday, June 12 in West Dallas. We invite you to volunteer for one of our most impactful events of the season, which will welcome local families to the Summer Meals program with free food provided by Dallas ISD Food and Nutrition Services and snow cones, crafts, inflatables and music. Click here to volunteer.  

Save the Date for Our Centennial Celebration and Concert
Presented by PepsiCo 

Join us Saturday, November 15  

at the historic Cotton Bowl in Fair Park for the unforgettable culmination of our yearlong Centennial Anniversary celebration. Stay tuned for details on the Taste United Food Fest, VIP Dinner, exclusive concert and more! Sign Up for Updates 

Carol and Kevin March at the 2025 Tocqueville Society Luncheon

A Landmark Gift and a Legacy of Impact: Carol and Kevin March Commit $5 Million to United Way of Dallas

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

On April 25, some of the most dedicated supporters of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas came together for an extraordinary occasion: a special Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society Luncheon, sponsored by HN Capital at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. More than just a gathering of generous hearts, the event marked a powerful milestone in our history, as longtime supporters Carol and Kevin March announced a remarkable $5 million investment in United Way and our mission to improve access to education, income and health across North Texas. 

Held during our year-long Centennial anniversary, the luncheon served as both a celebration and a call to action—an inspiring reminder of what is possible when visionary leaders invest in the future of their community. The Tocqueville Society supports some of United Way of Dallas’ most mission-critical initiatives, furthering our next century of work, and we are grateful to each and every member for their dedication to this community. 

A Celebration of Generosity and Vision 

The event featured a fireside chat with Sonal Shah, CEO of the Texas Tribune, and Jean-Guillaume de Tocqueville, co-founder and president of the Tocqueville Foundation in France and a direct descendant of Alexis de Tocqueville. Their discussion reflected on the enduring value of civic engagement and the power of philanthropy—principles that have shaped United Way’s Tocqueville Society and continue to guide our work today. 

The centerpiece of the afternoon was the announcement of the Marches’ $5 million gift—a transformative investment that underscores their deep commitment to United Way’s mission and our region’s future. This gift is among the largest in our organization’s history and echoes the community impact of some of our most dedicated supporters, including prominent local philanthropists such as Margot Perot, Karen and Tom Falk, The Eugene McDermott Foundation, Diane and Hal Brierley, Lyda Hill and the family of Caroline Rose Hunt, each of whom have made significant contributions to fuel our work. The Marches’ gift comes at a pivotal time, as we celebrate a century of impact and prepare for the next 100 years of change. 

“The incredible vision and unwavering generosity of Kevin and Carol March have been instrumental in advancing our work,” said Jennifer Sampson, McDermott-Templeton president and CEO of United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. “Their extraordinary gift will play a crucial role in funding the vital programs and initiatives that are transforming our community, creating meaningful opportunities for all. We are deeply grateful for their support and the lasting impact it will have.” 

The event was a full-circle moment for Tocqueville Society members. During last year’s Tocqueville trip to Paris, when members met with the Tocqueville family and learned the history of Alexis de Tocqueville’s interest in American democracy, Kevin March served as United Way’s corporate ambassador. At this event and others held throughout the week, it was an honor and an inspiration to welcome Jean-Guillaume and Stéphanie de Tocqueville to North Texas. 

Click here to view photos from this special event.  

A Legacy of Leadership 

For Kevin and Carol March, philanthropy is personal. Kevin’s early service as a firefighter instilled in him a strong sense of civic duty, while both he and Carol have been deeply involved with United Way of Metropolitan Dallas for years.  

Kevin has served on the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Board of Directors and led as treasurer and chair of the investment committee for the United Way Foundation. Carol, meanwhile, co-founded the Women of Tocqueville Fund for Women and Children, championing causes that support North Texas families. 

Their leadership doesn’t stop there. The Marches also established the March Tocqueville Fellows Initiative, which is designed to engage and mentor emerging philanthropic leaders. During the luncheon, attendees heard from JW Washington, a March Tocqueville Fellow and a standout at Toyota North America, who is helping lead the next generation of Tocqueville Society members. He shared inspiring personal reflections on Carol’s and Kevin’s incredible impact and leadership. 

The Marches’ latest gift continues that legacy by supporting programs that will motivate the next generation to lead with purpose, generosity and impact. 

Fueling the Next Century of Impact 

Carol and Kevin believe in neighbors supporting neighbors, treating others with respect and always looking out for the good of our community, much like our United Way mission. Their gift represents their inherent nature of leading by example, inspiring others to give more as we celebrate their generosity to our organization and mission.  

Carol and Kevin’s historic $5 million investment will directly support United Way’s most critical initiatives—driving measurable, generational progress in education, income and health. In 2024 alone, United Way programs impacted more than 1.7 million North Texans, or roughly 20% of the population in one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. With this generous support, we are poised to expand our impact even further. 

“We have always believed that strong communities are built by those who invest in them,” Kevin said. “United Way of Metropolitan Dallas has the vision, leadership, and expertise to turn every dollar into lasting impact. We see this as a strategic and meaningful way to help shape a stronger future for North Texas.”  

“Our hope is that this gift will inspire others—particularly the next generation of civic leaders—to engage, invest, and work together toward a brighter future for North Texas,” Carol said. 

As we advance toward our Aspire United 2030 goals, this investment will accelerate efforts to expand access to quality education, create pathways to economic mobility and increase access to healthcare—ensuring every North Texan has the opportunity to thrive. 

A Centennial Year to Remember 

As we celebrate our 100th year, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas is honoring a century of mobilizing community leaders, corporations and nonprofits to come together to improve lives. Our Centennial is more than a milestone—it’s a launching pad for the future. The year-long anniversary includes a dynamic line-up of volunteer and community events—including our Centennial Celebration, presented by PepsiCo—that will not only honor our rich legacy but also shine a spotlight on the bold, innovative ways we’re shaping the future of our region. 

With visionary partners like the Marches by our side, we are building a stronger North Texas, where everyone has access to opportunity and the tools to succeed. This moment is a tribute to the power of collective impact—and a bold step toward the next chapter of United Way’s story. 

What’s Next?  

The Tocqueville Society has several exciting and impactful events on the horizon, as the entire Live United movement celebrates United Way’s Centennial anniversary with special events, speakers and volunteer opportunities.   

Join the World’s Largest Corporate Running Event   

Connect with your colleagues, support employee wellbeing and network with your local business community on Thursday, May 8 at the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge, a fun-filled event that will benefit United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. Learn more and sign up.   

Volunteer to Support Food Security   

As part of our Aspire United 2030 Volunteer Series presented by Texas Instruments, we’re holding a Summer Meals Kickoff on Thursday, June 12 in West Dallas. We invite you to volunteer for one of our most impactful events of the season, which will welcome local families to the Summer Meals program with free food provided by Dallas ISD Food and Nutrition Services and snow cones, crafts, inflatables and music. Click here to volunteer.  

Save the Date for Our Centennial Celebration and Concert
Presented by PepsiCo 

Join us Saturday, November 15 at the historic Cotton Bowl in Fair Park for the unforgettable culmination of our yearlong Centennial Anniversary celebration. Stay tuned for details on the Taste United Food Fest, Patron Dinner, exclusive concert and more!  Sign Up for Updates 

United Way Tocqueville Society Unites to Create Positive Community Impact at Bench & Bar Boo-Ray Tournament

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

At this year’s Third Annual Bench & Bar “Boo-Ray” Tournament hosted by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, the North Texas legal community enjoyed a little competition for a cause, with a lively evening of networking and fun that directly supports United Way’s mission to improve access to education, income and health. 

The Bench & Bar event was held April 22 at Old Parkland and sponsored by FTI Consulting; Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP; Kirkland and Ellis; Reed Smith LLP; and Sidley Austin. The annual event is United Way’s initiative to bring together the North Texas legal community and encourage their support of United Way’s programs, as well as individual membership in the United Way Tocqueville Society. 

A Little Friendly Competition, a Lot of Impact 

The Bench & Bar event was a night for the North Texas legal community to enjoy a little competition, network with fellow Tocqueville members and make a positive impact. More than 80 guests from 24 of North Texas’ largest law firms gathered for a friendly tournament of Boo-Ray (also known as Bourré), an exciting, fast-paced trick-taking card game primarily played in the Acadiana region of Louisiana.  

Bench and Bar Tocqueville family
Jean-Guillaume and Stephanie de Tocqueville with Jennifer Sampson and Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society co-chairs Erin Nealy Cox and Trey Cox

This year’s tournament included two special guests: Stéphanie and Jean-Guillaume de Tocqueville, the founders and president of the Tocqueville Foundation in France. Stéphanie and Jean–Guillaume de Tocqueville founded the Tocqueville Foundation in 2012 to keep Alexis de Tocqueville’s intellectual legacy alive. Jean–Guillaume is a distinguished attorney and former partner at Jones Day in Paris and is the direct descendent of Alexis de Tocqueville, whose observations of American civic engagement and generosity helped inspire United Way’s Tocqueville Society. 

Old Parkland was a fitting venue for a gathering of the United Way Tocqueville Society and members of the Tocqueville family in France. Built to honor the historic Parkland hospital, the prestigious office campus is filled with fine art, unique artifacts and the spirit of entrepreneurship. The space commemorates history, represents the American ideals and celebrates the possibilities created when a community comes together.  

About the Tocqueville Society

Thank you to everyone who attended this fun-filled event, and a big welcome to all our newest Tocqueville members. 

The North Texas chapter of the Tocqueville Society was founded in 1986 by the late Ruth Sharp Altshuler—a legendary community volunteer—and includes the most committed and generous supporters of United Way. 

The United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society recognizes a select group of change-makers with an unsurpassed dedication to achieving lasting results in our community. Named to honor the late Ruth Sharp Altshuler, a longtime Dallas philanthropist, the Tocqueville Society comprises civic and business leaders whose vision for North Texas is matched only by their generosity. Members enjoy exclusive Tocqueville events, advocacy and volunteer opportunities, family engagement and more. 

To learn more about joining the Ruth Sharp Altshuler Tocqueville Society, please click here. 

Community Leaders Who Are Creating Meaningful Change 

The event was packed with some of North Texas’ most dedicated change-makers. A special thanks to the co-chairs of the Tocqueville Society, Erin Nealy Cox, former U.S. attorney for the Northern District and now partner at Kirkland & Ellis; and her husband, Trey Cox, co-managing partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher. Co-chairs of the Bench & Bar Cabinet hail from North Texas’ corporate titans: AT&T’s General Counsel David McAtee and Toyota Motor North America’s General Counsel Sandra Phillips.  

Bench and Bar General Counsel Host Committee

And thank you to the evening’s all-star host committee, which included many of our region’s leading general counsels: 

  • Jessica Bateman, Atmos Energy 
  • Van Beckwith, Halliburton 
  • Sarah Decker, McAfee 
  • Ashley Duffie, Celanese 
  • Scott Ewing, Trinity Industries 
  • Von Hays, Comerica Bank 
  • John Henrich, Cineworld Cinemas 
  • Katie Kane, Texas Instruments 
  • Marc Kesselman, Purdue Pharma L.P. 
  • Michele Lau, McKesson 
  • Grant McGee, Kimberly Clark Corporation 
  • Stephanie Zapata Moore, Vistra Corp. 
  • Rachel Morgan, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. 
  • Adrienne Mosley, PepsiCo, Inc./Frito-Lay, Inc. 
  • Bryan Stevenson, Arcosa  

Thank you all for making this year’s Boo-Ray Tournament a success and for being part of United Way’s mission to ensure all North Texans have the opportunity to thrive. 

What’s Next? 

The Tocqueville Society has several exciting and impactful events on the horizon, as the entire Live United movement celebrates United Way’s Centennial anniversary with special events, speakers and volunteer opportunities.  

Join the World’s Largest Corporate Running Event  

Connect with your colleagues, support employee wellbeing and network with your local business community on Thursday, May 8 at the J.P. Morgan Corporate Challenge, a fun-filled event that will benefit United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. Learn more and sign up.  

Volunteer to Support Food Security  

As part of our Aspire United 2030 Volunteer Series presented by Texas Instruments, we’re holding a Summer Meals Kickoff on Thursday, June 12 in West Dallas. We invite you to volunteer for one of our most impactful events of the season, which will welcome local families to the Summer Meals program with free food provided by Dallas ISD Food and Nutrition Services and snow cones, crafts, inflatables and music. Click here to volunteer. 

Save the Date for Our Centennial Celebration and Concert 

Join us November 15 at the historic Cotton Bowl in Fair Park for the unforgettable culmination of our yearlong Centennial Anniversary celebration. Stay tuned for details on the Taste United Food Fest, VIP Dinner, exclusive concert and more! Click here to sign up for updates on our Centennial Celebration. 

HCA Healthcare Foundation announces grant to United Way of Dallas

We Applaud the Texas Legislature for Prioritizing Childcare and Strengthening Families

Written by Meg Costa on . Posted in News & Updates.

As we wrap up the month of April, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month and included Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17, we applaud the lawmakers who have prioritized childcare and strengthening families throughout this 89th legislative session.   

At United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, we have been closely tracking and advocating for proposed legislation that would impact education, income and health in North Texas. Strengthening families and increasing access to childcare and maternal health services are some of our legislative priorities (which we explore in detail here), because they are aligned with our Aspire United 2030 goals. Throughout the remainder of the session, which ends June 2, we will continue to rally our fellow advocates to voice support for legislation that supports local families. 

Read on to learn more about the ways in which lawmakers have worked to prioritize childcare, child welfare and maternal health this session. 

House Passes $100 Million Childcare Fund  

The Texas House approved this month a supplemental budget bill with $100 million for childcare scholarships serving low-income families. The historic funding will allow the Texas Workforce Commission to serve additional families in its Child Care Services program.  

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas was one of the 120 organizations last fall that signed onto a letter, organized by Texans Care for Children, urging state lawmakers to prioritize childcare. For many low-income working families, childcare has become unaffordable and inaccessible due to long waitlists for income-eligible childcare scholarships.  

Other Childcare-Related Bills Filed 

During this legislative session, there were 100+ bills filed related to childcare, which is significantly more than the last session. Some of these childcare-related bills we have prioritized have included:  

  • Improving childcare access for childcare workers (SB 462/HB 3807) by providing scholarships for income eligible childcare workers 
  • Creating a new “employer match” program (SB 2164/HB 3191) that offers franchise tax credits to businesses that provide childcare benefits to their employees 
  • Improving cross-agency childcare data systems (SB 2194/HB 3963) by codifying an early childhood integrated data system (ECIDS) 
  • Strengthening pre-K partnerships to ensure that 3- and 4- year-old children have access to and are engaged in quality pre-k programs that support long-term academic success (SB 1755, HB 1996, HB 2395, HB 2779, HB 3297, HB 3301, HB 3692 and HB 2) 
  • Providing an established reimbursement rate for childcare providers participating in the Texas Rising Star Program (SB 972/HB 2294)  
  • Reducing obstacles for the creation of new licensed and registered childcare homes (SB 599/HB 4127)

Strengthening and Connecting Texas Families 

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas participates in the TexProtects’ Public Policy Advisory Committee, which is focused on advancing public policy and local implementation to prevent abuse and neglect. As the Texas legislature works to finalize its budget, we support the adoption of these key budget recommendations that would strengthen families and connect them to critical resources: 

  • Senate rider 132 in the Health and Human Services budget, which would increase funding by $1.4 million each year for programs supporting fathers 
  • Contingency rider for House Bill 38, which would provide an estimated $7 million in funding to modernize the 2-1-1 Texas Infromation and Referral Network system that provides vital public services, especially during disasters    
  • Legislation supporting informal kinship caregivers (SB 1918/HB 4870) that would ensure all caregivers, including relatives and friends of the family, can access and connect to resources and supports they need to appropriately care for the children in their home, along with adopting a $4.92 million contingency rider creating grant funding that would offset legal and financial fees for informal kinship caregivers 

Supporting Doula Care and Maternal Health Services  

The legislature has also considered several bills this session prioritizing doula care and services, in response to the high number of pre-term births and other maternal and infant health challenges. (HB 2573, HB 1201, HB 514, HB 2140, HB 2477, HB 2477, HB 3121 and HB 5583) 

Locally, the Dallas County Commissioners Court presented a resolution on April 1 recognizing Black Maternal Health Week. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three times more likely than White women to die from pregnancy related causes. Black Maternal Health week raises awareness and recognizes the underlying challenges that lead to preventable disparities in Black maternal health outcomes.  

Maternal and infant health are top policy priorities for our team at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. Our Doorways to Health initiative, in partnership with Kimberly-Clark, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Communities Foundation of Texas, works with corporate, philanthropic and community partners Abide Women’s Health Services and Delighted to Doula to improve the maternal health outcomes of women in Dallas. This community partnership offers a variety of resources and programming, including home visiting and holistic maternal healthcare services, to ensure new and expecting mothers have the support necessary to thrive.  

We are equally grateful for a new grant from the HCA Healthcare Foundation to improve the maternal and infant health outcomes of our neighbors by launching a multi-agency United for Healthy Starts initiative. With this support, the Live United movement is perfectly positioned to build a healthier, more vibrant North Texas—for all.  

Join Our Advocacy Movement 

These remaining few weeks of the legislative session will be critical to elevate our collective voices in support of this important legislation. While most of these bills are working their way through the legislative process and may or may not become law, it is encouraging that lawmakers have shown an increased focus on the importance of childcare access, child welfare and maternal health this session. 

Throughout the 89th Texas legislative session and at the federal level, we’re advocating for key bills that will improve access to education, income and health in North Texas. We invite you to join hundreds of your fellow advocates as we speak up, united, for the issues that matter most. 

We make it easy to advocate for our community. Sign up for our Advocacy Alerts, and we’ll let you know when and how to contact your elected officials to make the biggest possible impact.