United Way of Greater Nashville today announced it will become United Way of Middle Tennessee, a new organization name that has been approved by United Way Worldwide and will officially roll out on Jan. 1, 2027. The name reflects the organization’s growing regional reach and commitment to serving communities across Middle Tennessee. The announcement comes as the organization expands its service area through its merger with United Way of Sumner County and launches a new five-year strategic plan to guide its work and deepen community impact.
The new name underscores the organization’s evolution from a Nashville-centered United Way to a regional partner serving Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Hickman, Houston, Montgomery, Robertson, Stewart, Sumner and Williamson counties.
The name change and merger reflect a growing trend across United Way organizations nationwide: working regionally to tackle interconnected challenges and deliver solutions at the scale communities need. By aligning under the United Way of Middle Tennessee name, the organization will strengthen local services, increase donor and volunteer engagement, expand fundraising capacity and create a stronger foundation for long-term sustainability.
At the same time, United Way of Middle Tennessee is launching a new five-year strategic plan focused on mobilizing people, resources and partnerships around measurable solutions that help more neighbors thrive. The plan will guide regional priorities, align investments with local needs and strengthen collaboration with nonprofit, civic, corporate and community partners.
The organization’s regional growth is also reflected in the continued expansion of Hands On powered by United Way of Greater Nashville, which connects volunteers with meaningful opportunities to serve local nonprofits and community organizations. Last year, Hands On grew to more than 211 community partners across the region and recorded more than 57,000 volunteer hours. This year, the program has expanded into Sumner County, creating new opportunities for residents, companies and community groups to support local needs through volunteer service.
“This is a defining moment for our organization and for the communities we serve,” said Erica Mitchell, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Nashville. “Our new name, United Way of Middle Tennessee, reflects who we are becoming: a regional United Way built to listen locally, respond collaboratively and bring people together around the challenges and opportunities that connect us.
As a proud Sumner County resident, I’ve seen firsthand the generosity and care of the community. This new partnership will bring additional resources, stronger infrastructure and even more opportunities to help our neighbors not just in Sumner County, but across the entire region.”
“This partnership means greater impact for Sumner County. Together, we can serve more people, deliver more effective solutions and build a more resilient region,” said Kelley Crecelius, Board Chair, United Way of Sumner County.
Together, the new name, expanded footprint and five-year strategic plan position United Way of Middle Tennessee to deliver greater impact while maintaining a strong focus on local priorities:
- Continued Local Focus: Investments and strategies will remain guided by the needs of each community, with local voices shaping decisions.
- Expanded Volunteer Network: Hands On powered by United Way will continue connecting nonprofit partners with volunteers across the region, including ongoing work in Sumner County.
- More Resources: Stronger fundraising efforts and new partnerships will aim to bring additional funding, volunteers and support to communities across Middle Tennessee.
- Greater Stability and Long-Term Impact: Streamlined administrative functions, integrated operations and a clear strategic roadmap will strengthen the organization’s financial and operational foundation for the future.
The organization will continue sharing additional details about the transition, the strategic plan and county-level impact in the months ahead.