United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes

08/25/2026

We pay tribute to Dolly Parton alongside people around the world — she was an outstanding artist, storyteller, and philanthropist, and her generosity extended well beyond the stage.

One of the many aspects of her legacy is the Imagination Library founded by Dolly Parton on the principle that every child should have the opportunity to grow up with books; the program has since placed millions of books into the hands and homes of children and has thus helped families to develop a love of reading right from the start.

The United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes would like to express its deep gratitude for helping sustain that work in our community; it is a true privilege to be involved in an initiative that began with Dolly's simple, lasting belief in children, families, and the impact of a good book.

Her music will be remembered, along with her generosity, her humor, and all the lives she touched.

We are thinking of her family, her friends and everyone else who is grieving her loss.

08/24/2026

Thanks to 13WHAM for taking part in our event in Batavia and for bringing attention to the 10th annual Summer Serenade!

The evening provided an opportunity for our community to come together by hearing live music performed by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra, enjoying food and spending time with one another—all as a way of supporting United Way’s Backpack Program and the orchestra.

We would like to express our thanks to all those who contributed to making this milestone celebration possible and to 13WHAM for having helped in sharing the story.

08/24/2026

Thanks to 13WHAM for taking part in our event in Batavia and for bringing attention to the 10th annual Summer Serenade!

The evening provided an opportunity for our community to come together by hearing live music performed by the Genesee Symphony Orchestra, enjoying food and spending time with one another—all as a way of supporting United Way's Backpack Program and the orchestra.

We would like to express our thanks to all those who contributed to making this milestone celebration possible and to 13WHAM for having helped in sharing the story.

Check out their coverage and photo gallery:

13WHAM ABC Rochester provides local news, weather forecasts, traffic updates, health reports, notices of events and items of interest in the community, local sports and entertainment programming for Rochester and nearby towns and communities including Greece, Victor, Pittsford, Penfield, Henrietta,....

08/19/2026

Since United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes took over the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, the story has kept growing — and it’s a exciting story to tell.

In just a few months:

503 new children have joined the program
23,654 books have been sent to children across our community

Each book delivered means another opportunity to build a love of reading, strengthen early literacy and help prepare a child for school and beyond.
And we’re only getting started.

Learn more about Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and help us put more books into the hands of local children: unitedwayrocflx.org/dpil

08/18/2026

A huge thank you to Wegmans employees and customers!

Together, they raised an incredible $3,827,682 through the 2026 United Way campaign for our neighbors across Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes.

That generosity helps United Way strengthen local communities, support critical programs, and create more opportunities for people and families across our region.
We are deeply grateful to Wegmans and everyone who gave, participated and helped make this impact possible!

08/17/2026

READ THE FULL SUBSTACK ARTICLE AT THE LINK IN COMMENTS:

August is Black Philanthropy Month.

During this month, we celebrate legacy while recognizing the work that remains. Black-led and grassroots organizations continue to face persistent funding gaps, even as they serve communities closest to some of our region’s greatest challenges.

United Way’s African American Leadership Society brings local donors together to turn individual generosity into collective impact across Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes.

Members give, volunteer, connect, and lead—helping strengthen organizations and expand opportunity throughout our community.

Learn more about the African American Leadership Society and how you can get involved:
https://unitedwayrocflx.org/get-involved/leadership-giving/african-american-leadership-society

08/17/2026

United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes extends our heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones, students and community of Dr. David “Sankofa” Anderson.

A respected Elder, cultural leader and teacher, Dr. Anderson dedicated his life to preserving history, strengthening community and passing knowledge from one generation to the next. His impact can be felt throughout Rochester and in the many lives he touched through decades of teaching, storytelling and service.

We honor his legacy and the lasting contributions he made to our community. Our thoughts are with all who knew and loved him.

08/11/2026

United Way LIVE is coming to Anthology!

On Friday, September 18, local workplace bands will trade the office for the stage for a night of live music, friendly competition and community impact.
Taking the stage:

The VagaBonds — Bond, Schoeneck & King, PLLC
Refer with Caution — Genesee Regional Bank
ESL House Band — ESL Federal Credit Union
Built to Last — PathStone Corporation

The night will also feature raffle baskets, event merch, fundraising challenges and plenty of reasons to cheer on your favorite band.

Proceeds support United Way programs like the Rochester Dolly Parton Imagination Library, helping strengthen opportunities for children and families across our community.

📅 Friday, September 18
🕠 5:30 PM
📍 Anthology, 336 East Avenue, Rochester

Thank you to our sponsors, Reliant Credit Union Reliant Credit Union and L3Harris Technologies.

Turn up the volume for local impact and get your tickets today:
www.unitedwayrocflx.org/united-way-live

08/11/2026

Looking for a meaningful way to give back?

United Way’s Volunteer and Board Fair is back, bringing together local organizations and community members ready to make a difference.

Explore opportunities to volunteer, serve on a board or join a committee—and help strengthen the diverse, engaged leadership our region needs.

📅 Thursday, October 15
🕟 4:30–7 p.m.
📍 Temple B’rith Kodesh

Come meet local organizations, find the right opportunity for you and take the next step in your community involvement.

08/06/2026

Summer Serenade returns on August 23!

Join us for the 10th Annual Summer Serenade—an evening of live music that makes a meaningful difference for local children and the performing arts.

Every ticket helps provide nutritious food to children across Genesee County through United Way’s Backpack Program while supporting the Genesee Symphony Orchestra.

Enjoy music, connect with neighbors and invest in trusted programs serving children and families close to home.
Sunday, August 23
5 p.m.
Terry Hills Golf Course and Banquet Facility, Batavia

Learn more and purchase tickets:
https://unitedwayrocflx.org/get-involved/events/summer-serenade