James Collins is Director of 211 Engagement at United Way Worldwide, where he leads national strategies to strengthen and elevate 211—the nation’s most comprehensive source of information and referral for health and human services. A collaborative leader and field-builder, he focuses on deepening the network’s collective capacity through connection, shared learning, and innovation.

James also oversees a portfolio of impact partnerships with organizations such as AARP and United Way’s Ride United initiative with Lyft, advancing programs that expand equitable access to critical community resources nationwide. He began his career in advertising at Ogilvy & Mather before turning his focus to public service, serving in leadership roles at Greater Twin Cities United Way and nourish.NJ. There, he managed multimillion-dollar grant portfolios, forged strong cross-sector partnerships, and led initiatives that expanded 211’s reach—including creating regional 988/suicide prevention services and launching statewide coordinated homelessness prevention programs.

He holds master’s degrees in public policy and nonprofit leadership and in business administration from the University of Minnesota.