In 1967, Johnson County’s future destiny as one of the region’s burgeoning suburbs was well established. Concerned community leaders correctly recognized that a growing population translates into increasing human service need.

These forward-thinking leaders came together to develop a resource that would help this community confront the present and potential problems of their rapidly growing community. Their efforts resulted in the creation of the Johnson County Health, Welfare and Recreation Council, Inc., affiliated with the Regional Health and Welfare Council. The group’s goal was to actively promote the health, welfare, recreation and education services available for Johnson County residents.

In 1972 the Johnson County Health, Welfare and Recreation Council changed its name to United Community Services of Johnson County, Inc. Also during the 1970s, the Regional Health and Welfare Council became Metropolitan United Community Services, and in the early 1980’s the agency merged with Heart of America United Way.

At that time, United Community Services of Johnson County formed a separate corporate structure and entered into an affiliation agreement with United Way. Today, a core function of UCS is to serve as United Way’s planning partner in Johnson County. Together, the two organizations work with concerned, charitable community members to ensure that meeting the human service needs of residents is a high priority in Johnson County.