For three decades, United Way of Greater Los Angeles and East West Bank have worked side by side with a shared mission: to build Bridges to Opportunity for underserved individuals and families across Los Angeles County and beyond. What began as a partnership rooted in shared values has grown into one of the most impactful corporate–nonprofit collaborations in our region—touching thousands of lives and powering long-term change in housing, education, and economic mobility. 

A Partnership Rooted in Shared Values 

East West Bank and United Way share a belief that every person deserves an opportunity to thrive and a path to financial stability. Since first joining our Board of Directors in 1996, East West Bank Chairman, President & CEO Dominic Ng has played a pivotal role in shaping United Way’s community impact. His leadership helped guide efforts to address systemic inequities and uplifting communities historically excluded from opportunity. 

From the early 2000s through today, East West Bank’s leadership and employees have redefined what corporate community engagement can achieve. Under Dominic Ng’s leadership, East West Bank has championed record fundraising efforts that helped launch the groundbreaking report  A Tale of Two Cities, the first quantitative analysis comparing Los Angeles’ social and economic landscape from 1999 to 2009. The report informed United Way’s 10-year Action Plan to expand access to basic needs, financial tools, and pathways to stability. The Bank’s support has remained steadfast through natural disasters, economic downturns, and moments of crisis—including a $125,000 gift to the Pandemic Relief Fund. Time and again, East West Bank and its employees have stepped up for the region. 

East West Bank & WalkUnitedLA 

One of the most visible and enduring symbols of this partnership is East West Bank’s consistent support of WalkUnitedLA (formerly HomeWalk). Since the event’s inception in 2007, East West Bank has been a leading sponsor—mobilizing thousands of employees and building fundraising teams to advance solutions to end homelessness, strengthen economic mobility, and, in 2025, support wildfire recovery. Year after year, East West Bank’s WalkUnited teams have ranked among the top fundraisers. 

WalkUnitedLA has always been more than a walk—it is a movement powered by community, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves a better future. East West Bank has helped sustain and grow that movement every year. 

Building the Future Together 

Through financial literacy workshops, small business support, education programs, and emergency relief efforts, this partnership has expanded opportunities for thousands of individuals and families. Together, we have: 

  • Equipped families with financial education and budgeting tools 
  • Supported small businesses through economic uncertainty 
  • Helped students access academic resources and pathways to higher education 
  • Provided essential resources to families facing housing insecurity 
  • Mobilized volunteers to support tax preparation, community beatification, and crisis response 

Volunteerism has long been at the heart of the 30‑year partnership, turning time and talent into lasting community impact. Most recently, EWB volunteers donated their time at Foothill Unity Center of Monrovia, rolling up their sleeves to sort food and other donations. Their hands‑on support helped sustain three weekly food distribution events serving low‑income households across the San Gabriel Valley—demonstrating how dedicated volunteers continue to power this long‑standing collaboration and ensure families have access to essential resources. 

Each initiative represents a step toward a more equitable Los Angeles—one where every family has the opportunity to build a pathway to prosperity. 

As we celebrate 30 years of partnership, we honor East West Bank’s extraordinary legacy and look ahead with renewed energy. Together, we remain committed to creating stability, opportunity, and hope. 

“Financial stability is the foundation of opportunity, and for 30 years, East West Bank has helped United Way ensure families across Los Angeles have the tools and resources to build economic resiliency. They have helped families move from crisis to stability—strengthening household finances and expanding long‑term economic opportunity across our region.” said Elise Buik, President & CEO, United Way of Greater Los Angeles.  “Thank you, East West Bank, for your unwavering commitment, leadership, and belief in a stronger, more equitable future for every Angeleno.”