Tulsa United Way’s historic expansion: A lifeline for local nonprofits

After a longtime United Way chapter serving Rogers and Mayes counties closed its doors earlier this year, nonprofits in the area were left uncertain about the future. But now, the Tulsa Area United Way is stepping in — and for many organizations, that’s a big relief.

Why is the Tulsa Area United Way expanding its service area?

The Tulsa Area United Way (TAUW) is officially expanding into Rogers, Mayes, and Delaware Counties to fill the gap left after the United Way of Rogers and Mayes Counties closed on April 1, 2025. The chapter had served the region for decades but shut down following the retirement of its longtime executive director.

Alison Anthony, President of Tulsa Area United Way:

“We don’t want those counties to go unrepresented by United Way and unserved by United Way.”

Related: Tulsa Area United Way expands reach to 3 more counties, ensuring continued community support

How significant is this expansion?

This is the first time in 25 years that the Tulsa Area United Way has expanded its service area. It now serves eight counties across northeastern Oklahoma, providing support to over 160 nonprofit organizations.

What does this mean for local nonprofits?

For groups like SafeNet Services in Claremore, which helps survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, the news brings hope.

Jody Moore, Executive Director of SafeNet Services:

“We meet clients in their most basic needs with food, shelter, clothing, water... and then we provide outreach services like counseling, court advocacy, case management — a whole array of services for long-term healing.”

Were nonprofits concerned after the regional United Way closed?

Yes. Even though the now-closed United Way chapter allocated two years of funding before shutting down, many agencies were bracing for tough decisions ahead.

Moore:

“We were definitely going to have to bridge a gap... We knew that in the future we were planning for a substantial cut to our budget.”

Has the Tulsa Area United Way committed funding yet?

Not officially. But nonprofits are encouraged by the expansion and are hopeful that the new support will carry forward.

Moore:

“I’m just excited at the prospect... I hope to see the partnership continue — not just for my agency, but for others in our area.”

How does United Way funding work for these agencies?

Each nonprofit must apply annually for funding and demonstrate the impact of its services. For agencies like SafeNet, the money often covers critical overhead costs — things like utilities and basic shelter operations.

What’s next?

Tulsa Area United Way will begin assessing needs in the newly added counties and guide local nonprofits through the funding application process in the months to come.