United for Community, United for Change
Strengthening families and empowering brighter futures together
Our Story
At United Community, we believe every person deserves the chance to thrive.
50 years, we’ve been walking alongside individuals and families, helping them overcome barriers and build pathways to lasting stability.
It all began in 1969, when a group of women from Mount Vernon Presbyterian Church saw neighbors in need — children lacking shoes, families struggling for the very basic essentials. They collected donations and parked a refurbished trailer on church grounds. That trailer, called the “Trailer Store,” became a lifeline, offering clothing, friendship, classes, and hope each Saturday.
From those humble roots — with just one staff person and under $8,000 in its first year — United Community Ministries took shape. By 1971, more than 700 volunteers were supporting our mission, and the Fairfax County government recognized our efforts in bridging gaps between people of privilege and people in need.
Over the years, we added programs: medical and nutrition services, preschool education, counseling, workforce readiness, and more.
In 2017, we reimagined our purpose — not just meeting urgent needs, but working alongside the community to address systemic barriers, to uplift voices, and to chart paths toward lasting stability. United Community became our name, reflecting this deeper commitment to unity and transformation.
Our History
United Community began in 1969 as a small neighborhood initiative dedicated to helping local families meet their most urgent needs. What started with a handful of volunteers quickly grew into a trusted nonprofit partner serving thousands across Northern Virginia.
UCM is incorporated. Our Trailer Store opens and the Basic Needs program begins under first Executive Director Pat Berg.
Services expand to include medical care, nutrition support, employment assistance, housing counseling, and outreach — meeting families where they are.
Our work gains national recognition as Second Lady Barbara Bush becomes Honorary Chair of UCM’s annual gala.
Our work gains national recognition as Second Lady Barbara Bush becomes Honorary Chair of UCM’s annual gala.
The Bryant Early Learning Center opens, giving children aged two through pre-K a safe and supportive start.
Healthy Families Fairfax (child abuse prevention) is added, and management of Sacramento Neighborhood Center & Creekside Village Community Center begins.
Friends of UCM is chartered, building a dedicated circle of support and advocacy.
UCM becomes lead partner in Opportunity Neighborhood Mount Vernon, aligning resources to benefit families.
Our “Basic Needs” program is rebranded as Stepping Stones, reflecting pathways to stability and growth.
Our name formally changes to United Community as we declare a broader focus on ending multigenerational poverty.
UCM begins leading the Community Schools initiative in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools, bringing wraparound support directly to students and families.
During the COVID-19 crisis, we expanded emergency services to ensure families have food, housing, and care in a time of unprecedented need.
Our Mission
United Community walks alongside every community member, meeting their unique needs with care, dignity, and action. Through fully integrated support that moves from stability to growth to lasting transformation, we help individuals and families overcome barriers and build confident paths toward self-sufficiency.
Our Vision
A thriving community where every family has the power, tools, and support to confidently shape their future and raise the next generation with dignity and opportunity.
Our Impact in the Community
Every number tells a story of action and transformation
These aren’t just numbers — they represent families who found stability, children who are thriving in school, and communities that are stronger because of collective action.
Families served by the Food Pantry
Individuals provided the nutrition they need to thrive
Pounds of Food
New U.S. Citizens
Legal immigration cases
Adult Learners
NPV Interns for 406 hours
Volunteers
Hours volunteered
Join the Team
Change happens when people come together with purpose. At United Community, our staff, volunteers, and partners share a passion for strengthening families and building a more equitable future.
By joining our team, you’ll do more than just fill a role — you’ll help shape lasting transformation in our community. Whether you bring professional expertise, a desire to serve, or a commitment to advocacy, there’s a place for you here.
