From funding million-dollars for education to inspiring a culture of giving at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Joanna Gillespie’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and a little bit of boldness.

Her story is filled with heart, humor, and moments that changed communities—and lives—forever.

Read how Joanna became a beloved force for good across Northern New Mexico.

In the town of Dixon, the Embudo Valley Library Afterschool Program is more than just a place to do homework—it’s a launchpad for creativity, connection, and confidence. In part two of the story, the Embudo Valley Tutoring Association (EVTA) joins the library to bring math games, cultural storytelling, jewelry-making, and more to local students—all while building lasting relationships and life skills.

Meet the dedicated mentors behind the magic, and see how this vibrant program is helping kids grow academically and personally, one joyful afternoon at a time.

What happens when mindfulness, homework help, outdoor adventures, and creativity all come together under one roof? At the Embudo Valley Library Afterschool Program, learning feels like discovery—and every afternoon is filled with curiosity, connection, and joy.

From crafting slime to hiking in the hills, students are finding more than academic support—they’re finding a community.

Read on to see how this beloved program, supported by United Way of Northern New Mexico, is shaping bright futures—one adventure at a time.

Imagine a child snowshoeing for the first time, spotting birds up close, or discovering the magic of a butterfly's life cycle—all while learning science, math, and environmental stewardship. Thanks to a partnership between PEEC and United Way of Northern New Mexico, these experiences are now more accessible for hundreds of students across the region.

Discover how hands-on outdoor learning is transforming education and opening doors to STEAM for more students.

When Safiyyah first moved to Los Alamos, she wasn’t sure where to turn. The small-town atmosphere was new to her, and without family or friends nearby, the days felt isolating—especially as a parent of a curious toddler. She longed for a safe, welcoming space where her little one could play freely and she could connect with other parents. Then she found..

TechSource, Inc. and United Way Northern New Mexico are teaming up to drive meaningful change in Los Alamos and Rio Arriba counties. Through this powerful partnership, they’re strengthening local nonprofits, tackling critical community challenges, and creating lasting impact.

With TechSource Vice President Curtis Christensen now serving on the UWNNM Board, read more about how this collaboration is growing stronger.

As we step into 2025, it’s a time for reflection—a moment to honor the past, embrace the present, and welcome the future with open hearts. It’s easy to get caught up in looking back, whether with joy or sorrow, or to focus ahead with worry or anticipation. But time moves fast—so fast that..

Los Alamos and Rio Arriba Counties, December 23, 2024 – United Way Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) is pleased to announce that 24 nonprofit organizations in Rio Arriba and Los Alamos Counties will receive $462,000 for 2025 from donations

Meet Sam, Jeremy, and Angel—three resilient siblings from Northern New Mexico who, with the help of CASA First’s Abrigo Advocate program, have turned their challenges into triumphs. Raised by their great-grandparents, the family faced financial and emotional struggles, but CASA First stepped in with practical support like braces, mentorship, and transformative workshops. Read more about how this family is thriving with newfound hope and strength, proving that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.

Since 1954, LANL and United Way of Northern New Mexico have worked hand-in-hand to strengthen our community. Together, they’ve supported nonprofits addressing critical needs, from food and housing to mentorship and financial stability, changing lives across Los Alamos and Rio Arriba counties.

Thanks to the generosity of LANL employees and Triad’s matching program, this trusted partnership continues to create powerful, lasting change.

As we enter this special time of year, it’s a moment to reflect on family, faith, and the incredible power of giving. Inspired by the life and legacy of a remarkable woman—my mother—I’m reminded that true strength lies not in status but in service to others.

Lindsay Angulo discovered her passion for art through the Summer Leadership Program at Moving Arts Española, where her talent blossomed into a powerful force for community impact. Guided by mentor Roger Montoya, she created murals symbolizing unity and mentorship, including "El Portador de Semillas", which celebrates the importance of passing knowledge across generations. Her journey, supported by local nonprofits, reflects the transformative impact of creativity and community, inspiring others to give back and support programs that uplift the next generation.

The United Way of Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) is thrilled to announce it has received a generous $10,000 gift from N3B to support the..

United Way of Northern New Mexico is thrilled to announce that our grant portal is now open for 2025 funding requests! We invite eligible 501(c)3 nonprofits serving residents in Los Alamos and/or Rio Arriba counties to apply for support that will help address critical needs within our communities.

In Northern New Mexico, nonprofits are coming together in an unprecedented effort to tackle pressing issues such as substance abuse, violence, and limited access to physical and mental health services. Leading this charge is the United Way of Northern New Mexico (UWNNM) through its..

United Way of Northern New Mexico Funded Parter, Scott’s House, is a social model hospice house providing free residence and 24/7 care in a compassionate, one-on-one setting. Since 2019, Scott’s House has served individuals from..

In 2024, under the leadership of our Board of Directors, United Way of Northern New Mexico created our first Executive Leadership Team adopting a model of “Collective Leadership”. This model of leadership is different from traditional leadership - where “one person makes key decisions after consulting with others, in collective leadership, the group empowers the..

United Way of Northern New Mexico is excited to announce that the Los Alamos National Laboratory’s security contractor, Integrated Systems, has joined United Way of Northern New Mexico as a Cornerstone Partner. We are grateful for this opportunity and eager to ..

United Way of Northern New Mexico hosted a fabulous appreciation dinner, catered by Walter Burke Catering, to celebrate the incredible impact the power of us is making! Speakers, Dr. Katherine Ortega Courtney and Dr. Thom Mason, touched on the..