United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes has launched its 2026 Community Campaign with a $17 million fundraising goal, following a strong finish to last year’s effort.
The organization announced the new campaign Wednesday during its official kickoff event. United Way’s 2025 campaign raised $16.7 million across six counties in the region.
To help jump-start donations, the 2026 campaign includes $675,000 in challenge grants aimed at encouraging early giving. The funding includes up to $325,000 in dollar-for-dollar matches through the Changemaker Challenge, which applies to new or increased donations.
The Changemaker Challenge is led by Bond Schoeneck & King, Harter Secrest & Emery, Nixon Peabody, Harris Beach Murtha, and Phillips Lytle.
An additional $350,000 in leadership challenge grants is being provided by ESL Federal Credit Union and Five Star Bank.
United Way also announced that Ed Hourihan, managing partner at Bond Schoeneck & King, will serve as the 2026 campaign chair.
United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes supports a wide range of health, education, and human service programs across the region. Officials say funds raised through the annual campaign help support local nonprofit organizations and community initiatives.
