United Way of New York State & 211 New York, Inc. Recognize the Vital Community Hotline on National 211 Day

Albany, NY- Today, February 11th is National 211 Day – an annual observance celebrating the go-to, 24/7/365, three-digit phone number: 211, a resource that helps millions of people in the U.S. and Canada –and in every community across New York State. 211 provides expert caring help, connecting people to programs and services in their community using hyper local community service resource databases.

These databases are updated on a regular basis and the most efficient way to connect to local services. Based on the latest 211 Impact Survey Data, last year 211 triaged over 20 million requests in the US. In 2024, 211 NY responded to over 2 million requests for assistance. Each call helped New Yorkers access help for immediate or long-term challenges. 211 is a vital resource leveraged by New Yorkers who need assistance with food, health care, mental health, insurance, stable housing, utility payment, veteran services, family supports, disaster assistance, and other basic needs.

Other key facts about 211 in New York:

• 211 is 24/7/365, free, confidential, and accessible across all of NYS; • 211 is offered in over 180 languages;

• 211 Resource Specialists offer empathetic, non-judgmental care to help individuals and families connect to a range of programs and services in their local community to meet their underlying needs, not just the one that prompted the call, text, or email; and,

• 211 contracts with local governments to provide vital services which include code blue emergency assistance when temperatures are below 32 degrees, answering after hour calls for vital services, including social services and aging, or helping to respond to natural disasters or emergency response. “211 is an unmatched, critical, go-to service that provides connection and support to those who need help for a range of needs,” said Therese Daly President and CEO of United Way & 211 NY, “During 211 Day, we aim to express appreciation to the call specialists who provide support to help our community members and celebrate this lifeline that is helping New Yorkers deal with life’s challenges 24/7.”

Established in 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission as the three-digit number to reach information and referral services for health, human, and social organizations; today 211 is a resource for help and hope as evidenced by the role it plays providing support during community wide disasters including the tornados in Rome and Canastota this July or the flooding in the Southern Tier in addition to supporting challenges that working families are experiencing every day. While 211 is available every day of the year, it is especially helpful during times of disaster, providing accurate and vetted information on response and relief efforts, freeing 911 to be available for life and safety needs.

For 211 Day, UWNYS & 211 NY encourages residents across New York State - - - Call, or text 211 if they or someone they know needs help or to say thank you for help received in the past Share 211 widely with their neighbors, family and friends to connect others to help and supports Advocate to your local policymakers for the importance of and need to strengthen 211 and request that $2.8 million be included in the Enacted New York State Budget.

As a statewide organization, United Way of New York State works with local United Ways across New York to mobilize resources, advocate for policy change, and create lasting solutions to the challenges facing communities. Through collaborations with individuals, businesses, and organizations, United Way empowers people to improve their lives and build stronger communities. 2-1-1 New York, Inc., a subsidiary of United Way of New York State was designated by the New York State Public Service Commission to develop and oversee 211 services in the state. 211 is a vital service leveraged by millions of people across North America. Every day, people contact 211 to access free and confidential information about counseling, food, health care and insurance, stable housing and utilities payment assistance, employment services, veteran services, and disaster assistance. In New York State, 211 is available 24/7 and provided by local United Ways, community information and referral services, and the City of New York.

211 New York State Mentioned in Governor Hochul's Press Release on Resources Available During Snowstorm

Governor Hochul Updates New Yorkers on Ongoing Winter Weather Conditions

Snow and Wind Could Create Blizzard-Like Conditions in the Mohawk Valley, North Country and Central New York Through Tuesday Night, February 18, 2025

Snowfall Rates of up to 1-3 Inches per Hour in Bands off Lake Ontario

Avoid Unnecessary Travel in Areas of Heavy Snow

Up to 30 Inches of Snow Expected East of Lake Ontario Into Central New York

Strong Gusty Winds of 40-55 MPH Expected Through This Evening

Power Outages, Downed Trees, Hazardous Travel Possible Due to Wind and Ice

Dangerously Cold Temperatures Tonight With Feels Like Temperatures That Could Reach -25 in the North Country

Executive Order in Place To Facilitate Emergency Salt Deliveries

Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on winter weather conditions across the State and detailed preparations by State agencies to respond to conditions. Lake effect snow began overnight off Lake Ontario and will continue through mid-week, with up to 2.5 feet expected east of Lake Ontario into Central New York, including 8-12 inches in Syracuse and 12-18 inches in Utica. In addition, strong winds will persist into tomorrow across the State, with blizzard-like conditions and dangerous travel in areas experiencing snow. Power outages related to wind and downed tree limbs will occur. Dangerously cold wind chills below 0 and as low as -25 degrees are expected this evening across the State north of New York City, amplifying the impacts of power outages. People should monitor local forecasts and take precautions when traveling, avoiding unnecessary travel in areas of heavy snow.

“As extreme weather continues across our state, our emergency response teams and plow crews are working around the clock to protect New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “I remain in close contact with our local partners, and I encourage everyone to monitor their forecasts and take the proper precautions to keep themselves and others safe.”

Lake Effect snow continues today with the highest accumulations of up to 2.5 feet expected off Lake Ontario into Central New York, including 8-12 inches in Syracuse and 12-18 inches in Utica. Accumulations of 2-6 inches are expected off Lake Erie, as well as parts of the Mohawk Valley, with the rest of the state seeing between 1-3 inches. Bands off Lake Ontario may see snowfall rates of up to 1-3 inches per hour. Monitor communications from your local government for updates on travel conditions in your area.

The Lake Effect snow bands are expected to shift slowly south tonight into Tuesday. Wind chills outside New York City are expected to go into the negatives, dipping as low as -25 in the higher elevations of the Adirondacks.

Widespread wind gusts above 40 mph are likely across the state, with more isolated gusts up to 55-65 mph possible today, especially in the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region. High Wind Warnings are in effect for portions of Central New York, North Country, Mohawk Valley, Southern Tier, Capital District, and Mid-Hudson Regions with Wind Advisories in effect for the rest of New York State.

The Governor has an Executive Order in place declaring a State of Emergency, allowing the State to coordinate and share resources with local governments affected by upcoming storms. This includes the State Department of Transportation, which will provide assistance to municipalities impacted by the State of Emergency in excess of existing shared service agreements. The order also waives “hours of service” requirements for truck drivers to facilitate emergency salt deliveries ahead of these storms and includes other measures to facilitate emergency salt deliveries to State and local agencies across the State.

For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website. New Yorkers are also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts by subscribing to NY Alert — a free service providing critical emergency information to your cell phone or computer.

Agency Preparations

New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services
The Division’s Office of Emergency Management is in contact with their local counterparts and is prepared to facilitate requests for assistance. State stockpiles are staffed and ready to deploy emergency response assets and supplies as needed. The State Watch Center is monitoring the storm track and statewide impacts closely. Winter preparedness tips can be found at www.dhses.ny.gov.

New York State Department of Transportation
The State Department of Transportation is responding with 3,735 supervisors and operators available statewide. All field staff are fully engaged. All available response equipment is deployed and all residencies in impacted locations will remain staffed for 24/7 operations with operators, supervisors and mechanics throughout the duration of the event and priority cleanup operations.

Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

  • 1,635 large plow trucks
  • 349 large loaders
  • 158 medium duty plows
  • 54 tow plows
  • 30 snow blowers
  • 20 graders

The need for additional resources will be re-evaluated as conditions warrant throughout the event.

For real-time travel information, motorists should call 511 or visit 511ny.org, New York State's official traffic and travel information source.

Thruway Authority
The Thruway Authority actively is responding with 692 operators and supervisors available. The Authority’s Syracuse Division Emergency Operations Center has also been activated and crews have been shifted between Division Maintenance Sections to the hardest hit areas of the Mohawk Valley and Central New York.

Statewide equipment numbers and resources are listed below:

  • 340 large and medium duty plow trucks
  • 9 tow plows
  • 63 loaders

Variable Message Signs and social media (X and Facebook) are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

The Thruway Authority is leveraging technology to enhance the safety of both plow operators and drivers through a pilot program utilizing iCone technology. More than 50 of the Thruway’s heavy-duty plow trucks across the state are equipped with devices that can provide real-time data and alerts to popular vehicle navigation applications. In addition, all of the Thruway's more than 250 heavy-duty plow trucks are equipped with green hazard lights, complementing the standard amber hazard lights. Green lights are intended to improve visibility and enhance safety during winter operations, particularly in low-light conditions and poor weather. Drivers are reminded that Thruway snowplows travel at about 35 miles per hour — which in many cases is slower than the posted speed limit — in order to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. The safest place for motorists is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and treated.

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic information, live traffic cameras, and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails and follow @ThruwayTraffic on X for the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway.

New York State Department of Public Service
New York's utilities have about 6,693 workers available statewide to engage in damage assessment, response, repair, and restoration efforts across the State, as necessary, including 125 additional workers at Con Edison and O&R; 690 additional workers at National Grid, 328 additional workers at NYSEG, and 50 additional workers at Central Hudson. Agency staff will track utilities' work throughout the event and ensure utilities shift appropriate staffing to regions that experience the greatest impact.

New York State Police
State Police have instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and will deploy extra patrols to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles are in service and all specialty vehicles, including Utility Terrain Vehicles and snowmobiles, are staged and ready for deployment.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
DEC Emergency Management staff, Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers and regional staff remain on alert and continue to monitor the developing situation and weather forecasts. Working with partner agencies, DEC is coordinating resource deployment of all available assets, including first responders, to targeted areas in preparation for potential impacts due to snow.

DEC reminds those responsible for the removal and disposal of snow to follow best management practices to help prevent flooding and reduce the potential for pollutants like salt, sand, oils, trash and other debris from affecting water quality. Disposal of snow in local creeks and streams can create ice dams, which may cause flooding. Public and private snow removal operators should be aware of these safety issues during and after winter storms. Additional information is available at Division of Water Technical and Operational Guidance Series: Snow Disposal.

Unpredictable winter weather and storms in the Adirondacks, Catskills and other backcountry areas, can create unexpectedly hazardous conditions. Visitors should be prepared with proper clothing and equipment for snow, ice and the cold to ensure a safe winter experience. Snow depths range greatly throughout the Adirondacks, with the deepest snow at higher elevations in the High Peaks region and other mountains over 3,000 feet. Most lower elevation trails are frozen, including many trails in the Catskill Mountains.

While some waterways are currently frozen, DEC advises outdoor enthusiasts to review ice safety guidelines before heading out.

Hikers are advised to temporarily avoid all high-elevation trails as well as trails that cross rivers and streams. Hikers in the Adirondacks are encouraged to check the Adirondack Backcountry Information webpages for updates on trail conditions, seasonal road closures and general recreation information.

Backcountry visitors should Hike Smart and follow proper safety guidelines. Plan trips accordingly. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. To request Forest Ranger assistance, call 1-833-NYS-RANGERS.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use. Three sawyer crews are on standby to assist DOT with removal of downed trees and branches. Park visitors should visit parks.ny.gov, check the free mobile app, or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure safe, reliable service. MTA employees are poised to respond to any issues related to cold and wind. Due to forecasted high wind conditions, MTA Bridges and Tunnels implemented a ban on empty tractor-trailers and tandem (piggyback, dual, triple, etc.) trucks starting 2:00 p.m. Sunday. Based on the current forecast and the overall timing of this weather event, it is anticipated this ban will be in place until 6:00 p.m. Monday.

Customers are encouraged to check new.mta.info for the latest service updates, and to use caution while navigating the system. Customers should also sign up for real-time service alerts via text or email. These alerts are also available via the MTA app and the TrainTime app.

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
The Port Authority monitors weather conditions across all its facilities. In the event of severe weather, the agency issues travel alerts and updates as needed via facility email alerts and on social media. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA Alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps, including RidePATH, which provides real-time updates and alerts for PATH service.

Safety Tips

Power Outages

  • Check with your utility to determine area repair schedules.
  • If you lose power, turn off or unplug lights and appliances to prevent a circuit overload when service is restored; leave one light on to indicate when power has been restored.
  • If heat goes out during a winter storm, keep warm by closing off rooms you do not need.

To Report an Electric Outage, call:

  • Central Hudson: 800-527-2714
  • Con Edison: 800-752-6633
  • National Grid: 800-867-5222
  • NYSEG: 800-572-1131
  • O&R: 877-434-4100
  • PSEG-LI: 800-490-0075
  • RG&E: 800-743-1701

Heating Safety

  • Use only safe sources of alternative heat such as a fireplace, small well-vented wood or coal stove or portable space heaters.
  • When using alternative heat sources such as a fireplace, woodstove, etc. always make sure you have proper ventilation and follow manufacturer's instructions.
  • Keep curtains, towels and potholders away from hot surfaces.
  • Have a fire extinguisher and smoke detectors and make sure they work.
  • If you use kerosene heaters to supplement your regular heating fuel, or as an emergency source of heat, follow these safety tips:
  • Follow the manufacturers' instructions.
  • Use only the correct fuel for your unit.
    • Refuel outdoors only and only when the unit is cool.
    • Keep the heater at least three feet away from furniture and other flammable objects.
    • When using the heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.

For all non-emergency service needs in New York State before, during or after a storm, call 211 or visit www.211nys.org/.

United Way of New York State Featured in News Article on Federal Funding Freeze

"Can the Courts Stop Trump?"The slow unfreezing of federal aid ushers in more anxiety over the prospect of a constitutional crisis.

Visitors pose for photographs outside the U.S. Supreme Court.

Many groups that rely on federal funds are in the dark about whether the administration intends to follow the court orders. Jose Luis Magana/AP

By Evan McMorris-Santoro

February 6, 2025 05:00 AM

Days after federal judges ordered the White House to restore federal funding it paused with the Office of Management and Budget memo, some groups say they still cannot access funds, leaving them to question if the administration intends to skirt the power of the judicial branch.

Trump and administration officials believe in the broadest possible interpretation of presidential power. Critics wonder if flooding the system with executive orders that test the limits of the office is a deliberate effort to circumvent court power by overwhelming it — and whether those checks will hold.

“The bottom line is this,” Peter Neronha, the attorney general of Rhode Island, told NOTUS Wednesday, “is the failure to turn the money back on a function of the federal government being this enormous engine that just takes time, once it’s been shut off, to come back on? Or is it a deliberate and intentional rejection or failure to follow the court’s order?”

Neronha’s office led a suit joined by 22 other Democratic attorneys general, resulting in a federal judge blocking the White House from freezing funds on Jan. 31, one of two forceful orders where judges told the administration in no uncertain terms that it could not just pause all federal grants and loans. But since that time, Neronha says his team has been fielding reports from groups who say their expected federal funds remain unavailable.

NOTUS has confirmed several incidents of funds being inaccessible past the court order for Head Start programs. A senior administration official told NOTUS that “HHS had a technical processing issue” that had been resolved and blamed the Head Start problems on a “backlog of payment approvals” from that glitch.

This week a group of more than 250 aid group leaders in New York who rely in part on federal funding convened on a call led by Therese Daly, president and CEO of the state branch of the United Way. Coming up for air after days of chaos, the leaders tried to feel out an understanding of who remains cut off and who has been returned to the pre-memo normal, as the judges have ordered.

Larger groups like Daly’s, with broad profiles, said they had mostly seen funding return, though Daly said there were still missing funds for some, and inquiries out to the federal agencies about the money had gone unanswered. Some smaller groups on the call, with less staff and not much of a public profile, especially those with grants specifically aimed at marginalized populations, reported that their funding was still on pause.

Meanwhile, many groups that rely on federal funds are in the dark about whether the administration intends to follow the court orders, and some have begun to proceed as though the money will never return to its authorized levels.

The reason could be structural, as the government says is the case with Head Start: It is incredibly difficult to turn off federal funding and turn it back on again quickly. The administration’s bull-in-a-china-shop ethos is crashing into the reality of government impacting people’s lives.

But groups are left wondering how the administration plans to press ahead with its agenda despite the spirit and letter of two federal judges’ orders.

“As soon as we have evidence of one intentional withholding of funds, notwithstanding the order, that the order covers, we’re going to be back in front of Judge McConnell asking to have the administration held in contempt,” Neronha said, referring to the Rhode Island federal judge who ordered the restraining order on the White House.

Finding that evidence, so far, is a game of “whack-a-mole,” Neronha said. Groups that report they’re still not getting their promised funds have the stream turned back on by the time his office gets to them. But those reports are still coming in, and he said he expects to know if he’ll be back in court to argue contempt very soon, within days.

On the New York call, it was suggested that people call their members of Congress for help because it has proved nearly impossible to get answers from federal agencies.

That’s the same advice the National Head Start Association is giving its members, a few of whom are still struggling to get federal funding online despite being specifically exempt from the funding pause by the White House in its first “clarification” of the OMB memo.

“Staff are not in a position where they can respond to inquiries that we’ve seen,” Tommy Sheridan, NHSA spokesperson, said. Sheridan said his group has seen the funding system Head Start groups use slowly come back, leaving him with “optimism” that the money will be fully restored.

But some Head Start providers remain shaken.

“The challenge is the uncertainty level to it,” Sheridan said.

In New York, the new consortium convened by Daly is planning to ask state leaders to create a contingency fund to make up for federal money that may never fully return.

“The United Way of New York State is here to assist nonprofits as well as our state, local and federal partners on both sides of the aisle to keep critical funding from the federal government going so that everyone in our community can thrive,” she said.

Some Democrats, who have already called out Donald Trump’s federal freezes for being against the law, are already bracing for a deepened constitutional crisis.

“Donald Trump has shown a willingness to break the law,” Sen. Elizabeth Warren told NOTUS. “No one can be sure how far that extends, whether he will listen to court orders or simply put himself above the laws in this country, no matter where they come from.”

No matter how many lawsuits it takes, Neronha says the system can handle it.

“I hear from the president and his allies ‘shock and awe’ all the time,” he said. “Well, we’re not shocked and we’re not awed.”

The Democratic AGs have assembled the “biggest law firm in the country,” he said, uniting the staff of 23 attorneys general against oversteps of presidential power.

“There are lots of courts with lots of judges,” he said. “We’re not going to have any trouble with capacity here.”

United Way of New York State & 211 New York Inc. Statement on the Release of the 2025-2026 Executive Budget 

United Way of New York State extends its deepest gratitude to Governor Hochul for her unwavering support of the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with the Governor and the Legislature to ensure this vital initiative continues to receive robust backing. Additionally, we wish to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of our local United Ways, whose advocacy was instrumental in advancing this legislation.

However, we are profoundly disheartened by the persistent lack of support for 211. 

211 is a critical service that thousands of New Yorkers rely on daily. Through 211, individuals gain access to free, confidential assistance for essential needs, including counseling, food security, healthcare and insurance, stable housing, utility payment support, and employment services. Available to households 24/7/365 for the daily challenges of life, in 2024, 211 additionally supported Oneida and Madison counties after the July tornados devastated Rome and Canastota, as well as Steuben County after the flooding from Tropical Storm Debby.

As highlighted in our ALICE Report, every New Yorker deserves the fundamental right to safe and affordable housing, access to nutritious food, and affordable mental and physical health care. Of the 7.8 million households in New York State, an alarming 46% fall below the ALICE threshold, 31% are considered ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed; working households above the federal poverty level.

It is imperative that funding for 211 is prioritized in this year’s state budget. We are committed to working with the Legislature to ensure this vital resource receives the necessary funding in the final enacted budget. While we appreciate the Governor's support, we remain steadfastly hopeful that the importance of 211 will be fully recognized and reflected in the state’s funding commitments.

As a  statewide organization, United Way of New York State works with local United Ways across New York to mobilize resources, advocate for policy change, and create lasting solutions to the challenges facing communities. Through collaborations with individuals, businesses, and organizations, United Way empowers people to improve their lives and build stronger communitie

2-1-1 New York, Inc., a subsidiary of United Way of New York State was designated by the New York State Public Service Commission to develop and oversee 2-1-1 services. 211 is a vital service leveraged by millions of people across North America. Every day, people contact 211 to access free and confidential information about counseling, food, health care and insurance, stable housing and utilities payment assistance, employment services, veteran services, and disaster assistance. In New York State, 211 is available 24/7 and provided by local United Ways, community information and referral services, and the City of New York.

           

United Way of New York State & 211 New York Inc.  Congratulates Kelly Dodd on Her Appointment to the NYS Early Childhood Advisory Council

United Way of New York State is proud to celebrate the appointment of Kelly Dodd, Vice President of United Way of New York State & Chief Operating Officer of 211 New York Inc. to the New York State Early Childhood Advisory Council (ECAC). Kelly’s dedication to fostering opportunities for children and families across New York State exemplifies the mission of building strong, equitable communities where every child has the opportunity to thrive. We are grateful to Governor Hochul and her administration for this choice.

As a champion for early childhood education, Kelly has been instrumental in advocating for quality programs and resources that empower children, families, and educators.

United Way of New York State is confident that Kelly will bring innovative perspectives, collaborative leadership, and unwavering dedication to the Council's vital work of shaping policies that support the well-being of children and families statewide. United Way of New York State looks forward to the positive impact Kelly will continue to have in her new capacity.

As a  statewide organization, United Way of New York State works with local United Ways across New York to mobilize resources, advocate for policy change, and create lasting solutions to the challenges facing communities. Through collaborations with individuals, businesses, and organizations, United Way empowers people to improve their lives and build stronger communities.

2-1-1 New York, Inc., a subsidiary of United Way of New York State was designated by the New York State Public Service Commission to develop and oversee 2-1-1 services. 211 is a vital service leveraged by millions of people across North America. Every day, people contact 211 to access free and confidential information about counseling, food, health care and insurance, stable housing and utilities payment assistance, employment services, veteran services, and disaster assistance. In New York State, 211 is available 24/7 and provided by local United Ways, community information and referral services, and the City of New York.

United Way of New York State Issues Statement on Gov. Hochul's 2025 State of the State Address

United Way of New York State applauds Governor Hochul for including critical essential needs in her 2025 State of the State address. Many of the proposed initiatives align with United Way's mission, such as expanding free school lunches, protecting children's mental health, and securing affordable housing.

We were disappointed yet again not to see the critical funding for 211, and we strongly urge the Governor and the Legislature to fund 211— a service that falls directly in line with the themes of this year’s state of the state-housing, financial stability, and emergency response resources. 211 has been an important governmental partner for 20 years and has proven to be the most efficient way to connect New York families to health and human services.

As we indicate in our ALICE Report, every New Yorker deserves the opportunity to have safe and secure housing, food, and access to affordable mental and physical healthcare. Out of 7.8 million households— 31% qualify as Alice (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed) and 46% fall BELOW the Alice threshold. The Governor’s initiatives and measures aim to ease the burden on struggling families, as so many New Yorkers are not able to make ends meet.

The United Way of New York State is thrilled to work with Governor Hochul and the Legislature to improve the safety and security of every New Yorker from Buffalo to Montauk.

Therese Daly, President & CEO United Way of New York State

United Way of New York State and 2-1-1 New York, Inc. Announce Therese Daly as New President and CEO, Albany, NY

Executive Director Therese DalyUnited Way of New York State (UWNYS) and 2-1-1 New York, Inc. (211 NY) are pleased to announce the appointment of Therese Daly as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 10th, 2025.

Therese Daly, a respected leader with extensive experience in advocacy, public relations, and government affairs, will lead the statewide organizations in its mission to improve lives and strengthen communities across New York.

Therese Daly brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of accomplishments in the political, transportation, and financial sectors. She most recently served as Chief Advocacy and Government Affairs Officer at the New York Association of Training and Employment Professionals (NYATEP), where she played a pivotal role in policy development and advocacy. Daly’s expertise spans over a decade in strategy development, business development, communication, public relations, and government relations.

Before her time at NYATEP, Therese served as Vice President at Mercury Public Affairs, where she worked out of both the Albany and New York City offices. Her leadership experience also includes serving as the Director of Correspondence for Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins’ office, where she served as a key staffer for the Leader for a number of years.

"I am thrilled to join UWNYS and 211 NY at such a pivotal time," said Therese Daly. "I am inspired by the organizations’ dedication to creating lasting change and improving the lives of individuals and families across New York. I look forward to working alongside the talented team at United Way, as well as our community partners, to further our mission and address the needs of our state’s most vulnerable populations. I am grateful to the leadership of Board Chair Darley Willis and Capital Region Executive Director Pete Gannon and looking forward to working with the incoming board chair, Kevin O’Brien and his extraordinary leadership. Together we can make a difference.”

Therese’s career is marked by her commitment to leadership and advocacy. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including Nominee for Forbes 30 under 30, YWCA Resourceful Woman Award, A Siena Saint Who Don’t Sit On The Sidelines, Friends of Recovery 2022 Recovery Community Spotlight Award Recipient. Therese was featured on City and State’s 2022 40 under 40 as part of a feature on the best and the brightest of Albany, a Rising Power Player in New York State by Politics NY and AM Media, City & State's 100 Most Responsible Leaders in NYS, City & State’s 100 Most Powerful People in Economic Development in NYS, City & State’s 2024 Trailblazer in the Nonprofit Sector in New York State, and was most recently named on City & State’s 2024 Economic Development Trailblazer List.

Therese serves on the board of the Shaker Heritage Site, Eleanor’s Legacy, and the NYS Economic Development Council.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Therese Daly as the new President and CEO of United Way of New York State," said Incoming Board Chair Kevin O’Brien. "Her deep experience in advocacy, public affairs, and her commitment to social change make her the perfect person to lead our organization. We are confident that under her leadership, United Way will continue to grow and create an even greater impact across the state."

As President and CEO, Daly will oversee the continued expansion of United Way's efforts to advocate for policy solutions, mobilize resources, and support local initiatives focused on improving education, advancing economic mobility, and promoting public health across New York State.

About United Way of New York State
United Way of New York State is a statewide organization that works with local United Ways across New York to mobilize resources, advocate for policy change, and create lasting solutions to the challenges facing communities. Through collaborations with individuals, businesses, and organizations, United Way empowers people to improve their lives and build stronger communities.

About 2-1-1 New York Inc.
2-1-1 New York, Inc., a subsidiary of United Way of New York State was designated by the New York State Public Service Commission to develop and oversee 2-1-1 services. 211 is a vital service leveraged by millions oof people across North America. Every day, people contact 211 to access free and confidential information about counseling, food, health care and insurance, stable housing and utilities payment assistance, employment services, veteran services, and disaster assistance. In New York State, 211 is available 24/7 and provided by local United Ways, community information and referral services, and the City of New York.

For more information about 211 NY please visit: www.211nys.org