Building strong, resilient, and equitable communities across the globe is the mission of United Way, one of the world’s largest privately funded charities. The 136-year-old organization serves 37 countries and territories, tackling the toughest challenges to make life better for 48 million people every year.

In Canada, United Way British Columbia, a family of six United Ways spanning the province, helps address critical social issues in the communities it serves, including poverty, mental health, and food security. And through its Social Purpose Institute, United Way BC is helping companies contribute to a better world and unleash their full potential.

For more than 19 years, Mike McKnight has led United Way BC as president and CEO. The unified organization serves over four million British Columbians, and utilizes an extensive network of volunteers, partners, donors, and supporting agencies to deliver resources and support to the people who need it most.

In this episode of Beyond Profit, a podcast of the ANA Center for Brand Purpose, Mike joins host Ken Beaulieu to talk about the growth of United Way BC, the importance of having a stated social purpose, how its Social Purpose Institute contributes to the greater good, and more.