On Tuesday, a $10 million donation was made by author and philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, who selected UWSELA following a thorough review over nearly 6,500 organizations. Ms. Scott’s contribution is the single largest gift to UWSELA in its 96-year history.
2020 shed light on the disparities UWSELA has focused on for years through its Blueprint for Prosperity, the nonprofit’s plan to eradicate poverty in its service area of Jefferson, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Tammany, Washington and Tangipahoa parishes. The contribution will accelerate UWSELA’s ability to fund the Blueprint’s proven, long-term strategies for creating systemic change and equitable communities.
UWSELA President and CEO Michael Williamson shared the following statement in gratitude: “Faced with a once-in-a-generation challenge, Southeast Louisiana stepped up in response to the impacts of COVID-19 and hurricanes. United Way staff, donors, volunteers, and partners came together in an unprecedented way, generating over $16 million in impact – and their efforts were noticed in a grand way.”
