Cindy Padilla, Executive Director, United Way Northern New Mexico. Courtesy photo
UNITED WAY NM News:
In Northern New Mexico, our nonprofits are the lifelines. They are the people behind the food pantries that feed our neighbors, the afterschool programs that keep kids safe and inspired, the support groups that lift families through crisis, and the advocates working tirelessly for mental health, housing, and opportunity. And yet, many of these nonprofits are hanging on by a thread.
The current climate has left many organizations stretched thin—rising costs, fewer funds, and the increasing needs of our community have created a perfect storm. Leaders are balancing impossible choices: cut programs, reduce staff, or say “no” to the very people who depend on them. These are not distant challenges—they are right here, in Los Alamos and Rio Arriba, affecting people we know and love.
But here’s the truth: when you give to United Way, one donation strengthens many nonprofits. Instead of supporting a single program, your gift ripples outward—fueling dozens of organizations working side by side to address the most urgent challenges our community faces.
Your support keeps food on the table, creates pathways for youth, strengthens mental health support, and ensures families don’t fall through the cracks.
In times of uncertainty, the strength of a community is measured not by what divides us, but by how we come together. Right now, your generosity is more than charity—it’s stability, hope, and survival for the nonprofits that hold this region together.
Starting Sept. 9, United Way Northern New Mexico will be actively asking for your support of our local nonprofits.
Join us as we kick off this campaign to build a stronger community, 4-6 p.m., Sept. 9, at Ashley Pond, Los Alamos.
Come in support of your favorite nonprofit or support the work the United Way does for residents in Los Alamos and Rio Arriba. This is a family-friendly kickoff celebration that will include food, music, and community rallying around our nonprofits.
One donation. Multiple nonprofits. Stronger community. Together, we can make sure nonprofits are not just hanging on but instead growing stronger.
If you can’t make the event and want to give to many nonprofits. Visit unitedwaynnm.org/donate, send checks to: United Way Northern New Mexico, PO Box 539, Los Alamos, NM 87544 or call 505.662.0800
Cindy Padilla
Executive Director, United Way Northern New Mexico
505.216.6347 • cpadilla@unitedwaynnm.org.