The United Way of Greater Milwaukee and the United Way of Waukesha County will become one.
Mary Lou Young will lead the merged organization. She has been president and CEO of the Milwaukee office.
Young says the merger should make fundraising easier for employers, because some have offices and employees in both counties.
At least for now, United Way to maintain its offices in both Milwaukee and Waukesha, and Young says staffers will keep their jobs but cover larger territories.
She says the common problems the United Way has identified in both counties include food insecurity, substance abuse, domestic violence and homelessness, although each community is also addressing particular issues. For instance Milwaukee has focused on improving birth outcomes. Waukesha has been working to provide better transportation for residents in need.