Sawyer Baker

Sawyer Baker (she/her), Director of 211 Programs at United Way Worldwide (UWW), supports the diverse and expansive 211 and United Way networks in providing unmatched critical services to those who need it most. Sawyer currently leads Ride United, a national transportation access initiative established in 2018 to support United Ways and 211s in reducing transportation barriers to help neighbors in need across the United States. Sawyer has fostered the growth of the program from its inception to supporting over 100 United Ways and 211s in nearly 40 states in leveraging multiple localizable solutions to provide free and discounted rides as well as free deliveries of food and essential items to members of their communities. Before becoming Director, Sawyer led engagement with technology providers to create innovative solutions to solve 211 challenges, like an AI-powered chatbot to support clients during hurricanes and coordinated national internal and external communication strategies.

Prior to joining UWW, Sawyer was a Program Officer at the American Red Cross’s Global Disaster Preparedness Center (GDPC). During her time at the GDPC, Sawyer helped develop the Business Preparedness Initiative, aimed at protecting livelihoods and promoting community resilience by providing small businesses with adaptable preparedness tools and services. Sawyer also worked in Geneva and Bangkok as staff-on-loan supporting the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Secretariat and the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center, respectively. Sawyer holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Political Science from Iowa State University, and a Master of Public Administration degree from The George Washington University.