You could win Carolina Panthers season tickets for the 2013-14 season. We’re talking club level seats for two with parking included!

$100/raffle ticket. Only 1500 tickets will be sold. Proceeds benefit United Way of Greater Greensboro’s annual campaign. Tickets go on sale Friday, June 14. Check back here for more information to on how to purchase yours.

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Every so often in businesses, tools become obsolete. Typically these items are sold to scrap yards or sent to our landfills; but sometimes there are items in good condition that just deserve a new home. What if you could create change in your community by doing something as simple as selling your old stuff? Would you do it?

This Earth Day, we’re tipping our hats to our partners at P&G Greensboro for thinking creatively and doing just that: raising $6,100 for United Way by selling their obsolete tools to their employees.

P&G is committed to delivering products and services that make everyday life better for people around the world. P&G has a zero waste initiative, with a goal of putting zero waste into landfills—often made possible by turning waste and non-performing inventory into something useful.

P&G Greensboro recently underwent renovations to their machine shop. Many items still in working condition were upgraded, which created the opportunity to turn trash into treasure. After wrapping up their employee United Way campaign, a team of P&G staff worked together to create a silent auction to benefit United Way of Greater Greensboro.

“We saw it as an opportunity… with all of the efforts around the pledge drive, it felt like a fit,” said a P&G Employee Campaign Manager. “We talked about all of the good that comes from what we raise. There will be people out there who will appreciate this money.”

Employees were able to bid on everything from toolboxes to plasma cutters to welding tables. Even though the plant operates on rotating shifts, everyone was able to get in on the action to make a final bid. In the end, P&G was happy to reduce their waste stream and employees were happy to have awesome tools for personal use. The best benefit of all: a better community made possible by doing business a little differently.

Thank you P&G Greensboro for creating lasting change by investing in our community!

For more ideas on how your company can do business a little differently, give us a call at 336-378-6600.

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National Volunteer Week is a time to celebrate people doing extraordinary things through service. Established in 1974, National Volunteer Week focuses national attention on the impact and power of volunteerism and service as an integral aspect of our civic leadership. The week draws the support and endorsement of the president and Congress, governors, mayors and municipal leaders, as well as corporate and community groups across the country.

LIVE UNITED – Volunteer at one of the many service opportunities organized by Women’s Leadership and Young Leaders.

Click here to see the list of projects through Women’s Leadership. Women’s Leadership is focused on uniting women to empower and strengthen families to succeed. Read more about Women’s Leadership.

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“Our goal was to provide a forum for the community to learn more about what’s going on in the field of education and how United Way and its constituents can be a champion for advancing those causes,” says Michelle Gethers Clark, Interim President of United Way of Grater Greensboro.

The symposium was preceded by a reception on Thursday, March 21, at the International Civil Rights Center and Museum where founders of United Way’s African American Leadership celebrated the 10th year anniversary. Cole initiated the idea of AAL. Althea Trusedale and Michael McKinney acted as the first chairpersons in 2003.

Cole and O’Brien were a part of the educational symposium along with a panel of local experts on Friday morning. The panelists included Amos Quick – Guilford County’s Board of Education, Margaret Arbuckle-Guilford Educational Alliance, Dr. Bill Harvey NCA&TSU, Deborah Hooper – Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Randy Parker – GTCC, O’Brien, and moderated by Cole. The audience was asked to join with United Way to make a positive impact in the lives of children and families. O’Brien suggested citizens leverage cell phone technology to capture positive educational stories to celebrate accomplishments and “tell our story”.

O’Brien’s keynote remarks shared her life’s journey as a mixed-raced Latino woman which influenced her media career to be a concerned witness about real issues and solutions. Cole was honored as the Founder of AAL, and Dr. Edward Fort, Chancellor Emeritus at NCS&TSU received the new 2013 Gwendolyn and Alvin V. Blount Jr. Lifetime Service Award.

Gethers-Clark ended the day by asking participants to make an impact through philanthropy, as a volunteer, and advocate for important issues, and as a $1,000 donor. United Way is focused on creating lasting change through its investments. The key areas of focus for United Way include preparing youth to graduate and succeed, helping families become financially stable, and improving people’s ability to lead healthy lives.

United Way’s goal is to continue the positive momentum made over the last 90 years in Greensboro by improving the quality of life for all. United Way is asking the community for $500,000 by April 30, 2013 so that it can make high impact investments in programs managed by local non-profits to fuel youth development, increase access to health care services, and provide tools for family financial stability.

For more information about United Way, its investments, volunteer opportunities, and to make a tax-deductible contribution call 336-378-6600, call 2-1-1, visit the offices at 1500 Yanceyville Street or visit the web at unitedwaygso.org

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Women’s Leadership invites you to participate in a week of volunteer activities, from 1 hour to a full day, that impact women and families. These volunteer opportunities are open to all who want to make a difference – men and women!

To sign up for a volunteer opportunity, click the linked time slot and complete the registration form.

Click here to download an overview schedule for Week of Caring opportunities.

Assemble Materials for Bereavement Camp

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
Up to 4 volunteers are needed to assemble materials for the Wish Ceremony during the Kids Path Bereavement Camp.

• Wednesday 4/24 – 1:00-5:00pm

Assist Young Children in Early Literacy Program

Raising A Reader Program – Claremont Courts Community Center, 2702 Patio Place, Greensboro
4 Volunteers are needed to assist preschool children with simple learning activities.

• Thursday 4/25 – Noon-1:30pm

Beautification Projects

Volunteer Center of Greensboro – Meet at Wiley Elementary School, 600 West Terrell Street, Greensboro
Several volunteers are needed to build picnic tables, bookcases, and paint murals. Wear comfortable clothes to work on. Materials are provided.

• Tuesday 4/23 – 9:00am-11:00am, 11:00am – 1:00pm, and 1:00pm-3:00pm

Guilford Child Development, 1200 Arlington Street, Greensboro
4 to 6 Volunteers are needed to paint an office, clean interior windows, and reorganize the agency resource center. Materials are provided.

• Friday 4/26 – 9:00am-1:00pm and 1:00pm-5:00pm

Blood Donor Days

American Red Cross, 1501 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro

Volunteers needed to donate blood throughout the day

• Thursday 4/25 –  Click here to register for a specific donation time.

Volunteers needed to work in the blood donation canteen serving snacks

• Thursday 4/25 – 12:30pm-3:30pm and 3:30pm-7:30pm

Volunteers needed to greet blood donors

• Thursday 4/25 – 12:30pm-3:30pm and 3:30pm-7:30pm

Collect Poetry for “A Poem in my Pocket”

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
This volunteer opportunity is to collect poems for “A Poem in my Pocket.” Write or print poems on individual pieces of paper to make a difference for patients and family members during difficult times. This project can be completed off-site at any point during the Week of Caring.

Bring items to HPCG, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro, Sunday 4/21 to Saturday 4/27 between 9:00am-5:00pm

Create Crafts to Decorate Beacon Place

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
Volunteers are needed to create spring crafts or decorations for the exterior of patients’ doors, bulletin boards, and the nurses’ station. This project can be completed on-site or off-site at any point during the Week of Caring.

• Bring items to HPCG, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro, Sunday 4/21 to Saturday 4/27 between 9:00am-5:00pm

Create “Worry Jars” for Kids Path Support Groups

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
Volunteers are needed to create “Worry Jars”, a therapeutic tool made from recycled jars/containers used at Kids Path for children to write down their worries. This project can be completed off-site at any point during the Week of Caring.

• Bring items to HPCG, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro, Sunday 4/21 to Saturday 4/27 between 9:00am-5:00pm

Decorate Pillow Cases for Kids Path Patients and Clients

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
Volunteers are needed to decorate pillow cases with fabric paint to use as a therapeutic tool at Hospice and Palliative Care Center of Greensboro’s Kids Path program. This project can be completed off-site at any point during the Week of Caring.

• Bring items to HPCG, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro, Sunday 4/21 to Saturday 4/27 between 9:00am-5:00pm

Deliver Meals to Homebound Individuals

Senior Resources of Guilford – Meet at Peace United Church of Christ, 2714 West Market Street, Greensboro
Volunteers are needed with their own cars to deliver meals to homebound individuals

• Monday 4/22 – 1 Volunteer 9:30am-11:30am
• Wednesday 4/24 – 2 Volunteers 9:30am-11:30am
• Friday 4/26 – 4 Volunteers 9:30am-11:30am

Donate Shelter Items for Domestic Violence Survivors

Hold a supply drive for families at Family Service of the Piedmont’s domestic violence shelter, Clara House. Items requested include Walmart gift cards, body bath towels, eating utensils, plastic tableware, and large size toiletries.

• Bring requested items to United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville St, Greensboro Monday 4/22 through Friday 4/26 9:00am-5:00pm

Inspire Teens with Your Career Story

YWCA Greensboro, 4002-E Spring Garden Street, Greensboro
5 volunteers needed to speak to teen and young mothers and share your career story

• Tuesday 4/23 – 5:00pm

Mock Interviews

Women’s Resource Center, 628 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
3 volunteers are needed to conduct Mock Interviews with clients to prepare them for job interviews. Volunteers must have Human Resource or interviewing applicants experience.

• Tuesday 4/23 – 9:30am-11:30am

Prepare Meals

YWCA Greensboro, 4002-E Spring Garden Street, Greensboro
A group of volunteers are needed to prepare, provide, and serve a meal to 30 teen and young adult mothers and their 20 children.

• Tuesday 4/23 – 6:00pm

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
A group of volunteers are needed to prepare and serve a home cooked lunch or dinner to Beacon Place patients and their family members.

• Sunday 4/21 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Monday 4/22 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Tuesday 4/23 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Wednesday 4/24 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Thursday 4/25 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Friday 4/26 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Saturday 4/27 – 12:00pm-1:30pm and 6:00pm-7:30pm

A group of volunteers are needed to prepare and serve a treat to Beacon Place patients and their family members.

• Sunday 4/21 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Monday 4/22 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Tuesday 4/23 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Wednesday 4/24 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Thursday 4/25 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Friday 4/26 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm
• Saturday 4/27 – 1:30pm-2:30pm and 6:30-7:30pm

Volunteers are needed to prepare baked goodies or frozen casseroles to be shared with Kids Path families.

• Bring items to HPCG, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro, Sunday 4/21 to Saturday 4/27 between 9:00am-5:00pm

Receptionist Needed

One Step Further, 623 Eugene Ct, Greensboro
1 Volunteer needed to answer phones per shift

• Monday 4/22 - 9:00am-1:00pm and 1:00pm-5:00pm
• Tuesday 4/23 - 9:00am-1:00pm and 1:00pm-5:00pm
• Friday 4/26 - 9:00am-1:00pm and 1:00pm-5:00pm

Sort and Organize Office Supplies and Books

Reading Connections, 122 North Elm Street, Suite 520, Greensboro
4 to 6 volunteers needed to assistwith sorting and organizing office supplies and books.

• Wednesday 4/24 – 1:00pm-4:00pm

Work in the Garden

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, 2500 Summit Avenue, Greensboro
A group of volunteers are needed to work with Hospice Horticulture Therapist in the Kids Path and Beacon Place gardens. Work gloves are the only required materials to bring.

• Thursday 4/25 – 9:00am-Noon

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Today, as a part of International Women’s Day, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates women.

We should be proud our city’s historical role in advancing the status of women. Greensboro was the champion of North Carolina for educating women of all races, long before women and minorities were legally recognized as equal citizens. Read more about Greensboro’s role in the history of women in North Carolina.

We celebrate the achievements our community has made to improve women’s equality. We remain vigilant and tenacious for further sustainable change.

The advancement of women is of prime importance to the economy, business, and society. United Way of Greater Greensboro and many community partners are working to improve our local economy by focusing on family economic success.

One of the significant challenges to becoming  stable and self-sufficient is the affordability of child care. Safe, affordable, quality child care allows parents to obtain and retain a job. It also helps children develop in a healthy manner and ultimately start school ready to succeed. Access to affordable child care is essential for a strong economy.[i]

Many families in Greensboro are fortunate to have access to child care subsidies and scholarships from government and charitable sources, like United Way. However, working families and families that have a parent attending post-secondary school are often on waiting lists for 1 to 2 years before their family becomes eligible to apply.  At any given point there are 2500+ children on the waiting lists in our area to receive help. [iv]

In honor of International Women’s Day, take this opportunity to share this story with a woman who wants to make a difference in her community. Then, consider making an online donation to United Way of Greater Greensboro to help us continue providing child care scholarships and addressing the challenge of affordable child care.

Click here to read more about our state’s child care subsidy program.
Click here to go to child care subsidy fact sheets for each NC county.
Click here to read more about our community partner, Guilford Child Development’s, child care scholarship program.

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This is a guest post from Andrew Trump, Greensboro Program Coordinator at Reading Connections. United Way of Greater Greensboro investments currently support the Health Literacy program at Reading Connections . 

For most of the adults in our programs, the need to increase their understanding of health information and make appropriate health decisions is paramount: low health literacy translates into missed days at work, increased rates of hospitalization, and higher mortality rates.

As many of our tutors know firsthand, health problems are one of the primary reasons students miss classes and eventually have to stop attending.

Each February, we invite members of the Reading Connections community to engage in conversation and action toward improving health literacy. February is our “Health Literacy Month!” It’s a chance for our adult learners to begin and continue to increase their health literacy by focusing the lens of their basic literacy work on health.

For some, learning to comprehend the directions on their medication labels might be the focus of the month. For others, it’s memorizing the high-frequency sight words that appear time and time again on medical forms. And for many, incorporating health content into their lessons becomes an essential part of their long term work with Reading Connections.

We invite you to explore health literacy with us. If you’re curious about health literacy instruction, check out this incredible curriculum! For more resources, log in to the “Tutor” section of our website (user ID: tutor, password: reading). And for specific ways to address health with an adult student, schedule a meeting with one of our program coordinators.

Click here to read more about becoming a volunteer tutor with Reading Connections.

Click here to download the latest Voices. Choices. report about United Way and other community partners’ work in addressing health literacy.

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“I know that story, it’s some animals, my mommy read it to me last night!” – Raising a Reader Student

Literacy is one of the key building blocks to good quality of life. That’s why United Way of Greater Greensboro has brought together a network of early childhood partners to implement Raising a Reader.

Raising A Reader is an early literacy and family engagement program for children ages 0-8 that helps families develop book-sharing routines with their child.  The research is clear — when families are involved, children’s academic achievement improves.

On Friday, March 1st, our little readers celebrated National Read Across America Day. Some children celebrated the day with special activities at their schools, like wearing ‘wacky socks’ in honor of Dr. Seuss. Others simply celebrated by reading a book from their little red Raising a Reader bag with their family.

To practice the habit of sharing books, each week children bring home bright red book bags filled with award-winning books. Each day children invite a loved one to ‘share a book with me’. Every week each child brings home a different bag of books so that, on average, more than 100 high quality books will rotated through children’s homes over the course of a typical rotation cycle.

Your donation to United Way improves the odds of success in school for thousands of children each year.  Raising a Reader is one of many high quality programs your dollar supports.  These investments create lasting changes in our community.

Give to United Way and be part of the change! Click here to make an easy and secure online donation.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership members invite you to attend the 3rd annual Women in Philanthropy Luncheon, benefiting programs & initiatives supported by United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Join us for this luncheon open to all who want to make a difference.

This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Maya Angelou, Renaissance Woman and Best Selling Author.

Only a few tickets remain! To purchase tickets, please contact Julie Longmire at 378.5023 or Julie.Longmire@unitedwaygso.org.

When: Tuesday, May 14 from 11:30 am- 1:30pm

Where: Grandover Resort & Conference Center

Tickets are $50 (including lunch entrée) 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANNOUNCING SITES FOR FACILITATED SELF ASSISTANCE TAX PREPARATION.

Free Tax Preparation Sites Now Open.

Greensboro, NC, January 31, 2013 – United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) announces the availability of the Facilitated Self-Assistance free tax preparation sites and online service at local non-profits. Households earning up to $57,000 annually can qualify to get free help preparing their tax return.
UWGG, in conjunction with several of its Partner Agencies in the Greensboro area, is coordinating the Facilitated Self-Assistance (FSA) free, online state and federal income tax filing service. “This service is a practical benefit and will help to empower individuals to do their own taxes as one step toward financial self-sufficiency,” said Sarah Glover, Community Impact Manager, Income & Resources, UWGG.

This free online filing service through Myfreetaxes.com is for people who:
- Have a household Adjusted Gross Income of $57,000 or less.
- Have basic computer and internet skills.
- Want to do their own taxes with access to an IRS certified volunteer.
FSA is one of two ways to get free help from IRS certified volunteers. FSA volunteers will be available by phone, email or online chat to answer questions. If in-person help is needed, call 2-1-1 for local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites. The FSA tax preparation sites, in Greensboro, began service this week on Monday, January 28th.
People wanting to use the FSA service should be prepared with the following:
• Driver’s license or non-driver ID. Spouses filing jointly must both be present.
• W-2s, 1099s and other income and tax related forms.
• Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for each family member and working adult.
• Childcare provider name, address and tax ID.
• Bank routing and account numbers for checking and savings accounts if direct deposit is desired.
• Valid email address.
• A copy of last year’s tax return if available.
The United Way affiliated sites, in Greensboro, for the FSA tax preparation service are:
Greensboro Housing Authority
(*Residents only / see website at www.gha-nc.org )

Guilford Child Development
1200 Arlington St., Greensboro 27406
336-369-7700
Monday – Friday 10:00 – 6:00 by appointment 336- 369-5000

Piedmont Health Services & Sickle Cell Agency
1102 E. Market St., Greensboro 27401
336-274-1507
Thursdays 1:00-5:00

Volunteer Center
1500 Yanceyville St, Greensboro 27405
336-373-1633
Monday through Friday 3:00-5:00

YWCA of Greensboro
4002 Spring Garden St. Suite E, Greensboro 27407
336-273-3461
Monday through Friday 9:00-2:00 / Evenings by appointment

Women’s Resource Center
336-275-6090
628 Summit Ave, Greensboro 27405
(*Women only)
Wednesdays 10:00-4:00

Individuals who qualify to file using Myfreetaxes.com can file online anytime using Myfreetaxes.com/Greensboro. The link can also be found at www.unitedwaygso.org.

For details, contact Sarah Glover at 378-5036 or email at sarah.glover@unitedwaygso.org .

United Way of Greater Greensboro supports programs, initiatives, member agencies, and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marked the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrated 90 years of local investments.
-END -

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Leadership group represents African Americans who are leadership givers that invest their time and resources to strengthen the impact of United Way of Greater Greensboro and its community partnerships.

African American Leadership is excited to announce the 2nd Annual African American Leadership Speaker Series. This year’s focus will be education and will feature keynote speaker Soledad O’Brien, Acclaimed Special Investigations Correspondent and Host of CNN’s morning show, Starting Point.  This event will honor two outstanding leaders, Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole and Dr. Edward B. Fort.

Schedule of Events – March 22, 2013

9:00 – 11:00 am
Education  Symposium

Moderator: Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole

Panelists Include:

11:30 am – 1:15 pm
Keynote Address Lunch: Soledad O’Brien

African American Leadership Founding Award
Presented to Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, Director of National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institute

Lifetime Achievement Award
Presented to Dr. Edward B. Fort, Chancellor Emeritus, NC A&T State University

1:30 – 3:00 pm
Meet & Greet with Honorees

This is your opportunity to meet the event’s honorees. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

Where
The Elm Street Center
203 S. Elm Street, Greensboro
Greensboro, NC 27401

Individual Tickets on Sale February 18 at UnitedWayGSO.org/RSVP

For Sponsorship Information, Contact 336-378-5033 or Marie.Boulware@UnitedWayGSO.org.

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Almost half of children under age five in Guilford County who live in a single parent-led household are living below the Federal Poverty Level – 49.7% (2010 U.S. Census).  Like thousands of these low-income, single-parent families, “Kandice” can’t afford child care while she works to provide for her children. Our Regional Child Care Resources & Referral program (RCCR&R) provides child care scholarships to parents like Kandice so they can work while their children prepare for success in school.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro recognizes today, January 25th, as the 7th National EITC Day, a nationwide effort to increase public awareness about Earned Income Tax Credit.People who work and earn less than $50,270 from wages, self-employment or farming may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit or EITC.

Celebrate by finding out if you’re eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit — which could mean up to $2000 back in your pocket! Click here to go to the IRS’s 2012 EITC Assistant.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANNOUNCING NATIONAL EITC DAY AND FACILITATED SELF ASSISTANCE TAX PREPARATION.

Many People Could Overlook Valuable Tax Credit.

Greensboro, NC, January 25, 2013 – United Way of Greater Greensboro recognizes today, January 25th, as the 7th National EITC Day, a nationwide effort to increase public awareness about Earned Income Tax Credit. People who work and earn less than $50,270 from wages, self-employment or farming may be eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit or EITC. UWGG also announces the availability of the Facilitated Self-Assistance free tax preparation sites and online service. Households earning up to $57,000 annually can get free help preparing their tax return.

One in five eligible workers miss EITC, either because they don’t claim it when filing or don’t file a tax return. This is money that can make a difference, especially for lower income households. Last year, the credit returned statewide was over $2.14 billion dollars to over 900,000 workers i.

Workers who qualify for EITC could receive larger refunds. EITC varies by income, family size and filing status and the average EITC amount last year in North Carolina, was $2,356 i.

With the exception of some disability income, people must work to qualify for EITC. They earned it. Now they must file, claim it and get it. EITC is a valuable tax break for working families and free help is available from IRS-certified volunteers.

“EITC is a financial boost for working people, and their families. It allows more funds to flow into our community. It’s money that can make lives a little easier. We want to help families keep all of their refund,” said Sarah Glover, Community Impact Manager, Income & Resources, UWGG.

UWGG, in conjunction with several of its Partner Agencies in the Greensboro area, is coordinating the Facilitated Self-Assistance (FSA) free, online state and federal income tax filing service.

This free online filing service through Myfreetaxes.com is for people who:

• Have a household Adjusted Gross Income of $57,000 or less.
• Have basic computer and internet skills.
• Want to do their own taxes with access to an IRS certified volunteer.

FSA is one of two ways to get free help from IRS certified volunteers. FSA volunteers will be available by phone, email or online chat to answer questions. If in-person help is needed, call 2-1-1 for local Volunteer Income Tax Assistance sites. All FSA tax preparation sites will begin service on Monday, January 28th.

People wanting to use the FSA service should be prepared with the following:

• Driver’s license or non-driver ID. Spouses filing jointly must both be present.
• W-2s, 1099s and other income and tax related forms.
• Social Security or Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) for each family member and working adult.
• Childcare provider name, address and tax ID.
• Bank routing and account numbers for checking and savings accounts if direct deposit is desired.
• Valid email address.
• A copy of last year’s tax return if available.

The United Way affiliated sites, in Greensboro, for the FSA tax preparation service are:

Greensboro Housing Authority
(*Residents only / see website at www.gha-nc.org )

Guilford Child Development
1200 Arlington St., Greensboro 27406
336-369-7700
First Saturday of the month, 10:00-1:00 / Weekdays 9:00-4:00 / Tuesday and Thursday evenings by appointment 336- 369-5097 -or- 336-369-5034

Piedmont Health Services & Sickle Cell Agency
1102 E. Market St., Greensboro 27401
336-274-1507
Thursdays 1:00-5:00

Volunteer Center
1500 Yanceyville St, Greensboro 27405
336-373-1633
Monday through Friday 3:00-5:00

YWCA of Greensboro
4002 Spring Garden St. Suite E, Greensboro 27407
336-273-3461
Monday through Friday 9:00-2:00 / Evenings by appointment

Women’s Resource Center
336-275-6090
628 Summit Ave, Greensboro 27405
(*Women only)
Wednesdays 10:00-4:00

Individuals who qualify to file using Myfreetaxes.com can file online anytime using Myfreetaxes.com/Greensboro. The link can also be found at www.unitedwaygso.org.

For details, contact Sarah Glover at 378-5036 or email at sarah.glover@unitedwaygso.org.

United Way of Greater Greensboro supports programs, initiatives, member agencies, and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marked the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrated 90 years of local investments.
-END -

i – Source: www.eitc.irs.gov/central/eitcstats

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This tax season, you could save $200! Discover how easy it is to file your taxes for free:

• Online at MyFreeTaxes.com/greensboro, powered by H&R Block, if you make $57,000 or less. You can also visit any of Greensboro’s Facilitated Self-Assistance locations to access this service:

• Greensboro Housing Authority (*Residents only / see website at www.gha-nc.org )
• Guilford Child Development 1200 Arlington St., Greensboro 27406
  Tuesday and Thursday evenings by appointment 336- 369-5097 -or- 336-369-5034
• Piedmont Health Services & Sickle Cell Agency 1102 E. Market St., Greensboro 27401
  336-274-1507
  Thursdays 1:00-5:00
• Volunteer Center 1500 Yanceyville St, Greensboro 27405
  336-373-1633
  Monday through Friday 3:00-5:00
• YWCA of Greensboro 4002 Spring Garden St. Suite E, Greensboro 27407
  336-273-3461
  Monday through Friday 9:00-2:00 / Evenings by appointment
• Women’s Resource Center (*Women only) 628 Summit Ave, Greensboro 27405
  336-275-6090
  Wednesdays 10:00-4:00*NOTE: All MyFreeTaxes.com users can call 1-855-MY-TX-HELP (1-855-698-9435-7) 10am – 10pm Monday – Saturday for assistance filing their taxes. The helpline is staffed by select call centers and IRS VITA Certified Volunteers, supported by multi-year MyFreeTaxes trainers.

• In person with an IRS-Certified Volunteer Income Tax Preparer,  if you make $50,000 or less. Call 2-1-1 or visit MyFreeTaxes.com to find free tax filing in your area.

Finding ways to boost the financial stability of our neighbors is what United Way is all about.

Myfreetaxes.com provides free state and federal tax preparation and filing assistance for qualified individuals. It’s easy, safe, secure and 100 percent free.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters Episode 8: Meet Mujahid and Ian

Hundreds of youth in Greensboro are looking for a mentor just like you. Make a difference. Take the first step to becoming a mentor. Complete our mentor interest form at: UnitedWayGSO.org/mentor.

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Greensboro, NC, January 22, 2013 –The United Way of Greater Greensboro announced today that Keith Barsuhn, President & CEO of the organization, has resigned from his position to pursue other opportunities.

For the past four years, Barsuhn has led the United Way. During his tenure, Barsuhn has helped oversee the formation of Operation Greensboro Cares, which helped create the Winter Emergency Shelter Initiative. He also has been responsible for expanding the scope and impact of Thriving At Three, which addresses the needs of at risk children aged 0 to 3 years old. In addition, Barsuhn has led the creation of the United Way’s “Blueprint for Lasting Change” a strategic plan, which focuses the organization’s investments and volunteers toward needs in the areas of education, health and financial stability. This effort included the implementation of “Mentoring Matters”, a community–wide mentoring collaboration.

“Under Keith’s leadership, the United Way of Greater Greensboro has achieved a number of significant goals,” said Sue Cole, Chair of the United Way’s Board of Directors. “We thank Keith for his contributions and we wish him well in his new endeavors.”

“Working with the Greensboro community has been a very rewarding experience,” said Barsuhn. “This United Way, which is led by outstanding employees and volunteers, has built a solid foundation that will improve human conditions in Greensboro. I am proud of all the people and organizations that have embraced this important role for community change.”

Barsuhn’s last day with the United Way will be January 31, 2013. While a search for Barsuhn’s successor is conducted, Michelle Gethers Clark, a well-known local community leader, will serve as the Interim President and CEO. A former board member of the United Way of Greater Greensboro, Gethers-Clark brings a wealth of experience to the role. She was with American Express Company for over 20 years serving in various global leadership roles. After retiring from American Express, Gethers-Clark started her own company, The Center for Service & Leadership, in 2010. Most recently, Gethers-Clark also has been a consultant with the United Way of Greater Greensboro.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro supports programs, initiatives, member agencies, and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marked the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrated 90 years of local investments.

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On January 30th, Partners Ending Homelessness will conduct the annual Point In Time Count for Guilford County. The Point In Time Count provides a snapshot of unduplicated sheltered and unsheltered individuals and families experiencing homelessness on any given night as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

On Wednesday, January 25, 2012, Partners Ending Homelessness conducted Guilford County’s Annual Point in Time Count which revealed:

• 1,005 individuals experience homelessness on any given night
• There has been a 61.8% reduction in the number of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness ***

For more information about the Point In Time Count, or to volunteer your time to help, contact Sara Patterson at sara@partnersendinghomelessness.org.

*** Partners Ending Homelessness feels that this number is a little low. It is believed the number is equivalent to what it has been over the last couple of years.

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Greensboro, N.C. – Pearce Elementary set a goal to increase its United Way student and staff campaigns by 10 percent. The school didn’t just meet their goal, but surpassed it, increasing their total donations by 15 percent for a total of $10,000.01, one of the largest donations by a public school.

Today, Pearce Elementary presented the check to the United Way of Greater Greensboro’s President Keith Barsuhn in a special assembly.

Barsuhn accepted the sizeable donation, stating: “We are honored to accept this gracious gift from the students and staff of Pearce Elementary. United Way of Greater Greensboro is celebrating 90 years of creating lasting change in Greensboro. Pearce Elementary has shown how much they care about the less fortunate in our community and that they are committed to improving the quality of the human condition.”

Leading the school’s campaign was treasurer Jackie Needham, fifth-grade teacher Heather McLamb and teacher assistant Stacy Pobanz. The team leaders worked together to build excitement for the campaign, and included incentives for staff like additional jeans days and special lunch time, as well as an incentive for students that gave them the chance to throw a pie in the face of their principal, Erik Naglee. In October, the school worked with the community to host a free family fun night where parent-donated baskets were raffled.

Every year, Guilford County Schools works with both the United Way of Greater Greensboro and the United Way of Greater High Point. The district has proven to be an essential part of the organizations’ campaigns, which address essential human needs in education, income and health.

About Guilford County Schools

Guilford County Schools, the third largest school district in North Carolina, serves more than 72,000 students at 124 schools. With approximately 10,000 employees, the district’s mission is to graduate responsible citizens who are prepared to succeed in higher education or the career of their choice. Guilford County Schools is a national leader in providing specialized schools and instructional programs designed to meet the educational needs of a culturally diverse citizenship. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.gcsnc.com.

About United Way of Greater Greensboro

United Way of Greater Greensboro supports critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments. For more information, visit the website at www.unitedwaygso.org .

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Leadership group presents professional development with a purpose! Join us for a leadership development training facilitated by industry professionals who will provide information about increasing workplace performance. The best part: proceeds benefit United Way of Greater Greensboro.

January 23, 2013

8:30 am – 1:00 pm

United Way of Greater Greensboro
1500 Yanceyville St.
Greensboro, NC 27405

$109 early registration (ends December 31st)
$139 regular registration

Space is limited. Reserve your seat today!

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Please note that 2012 donation payments may be mailed to 1500 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro, NC 27405 throughout the end of the year. Check donations postmarked and dated by December 31, 2012 will be honored as 2012 contributions if they are received by United Way the first week of January 2013. Credit card payments must be made by 5:00 p.m. December 28, 2012.

Online giving is for new donations/payments only, not for payment of outstanding balances.
If you are paying off a current pledge by credit card this must be done by phone or in person at the United Way location on Yanceyville St. before 5:00 p.m. December 28, 2012

If you wish to make a new donation and pay that donation online this must be done prior to 5:00 p.m. in order to process the charge and be eligible for your tax donation. Online credit cards are NOT processed automatically, so please make sure you post your pledge/payment by 5:00 p.m. December 28, 2012.

Our website will not accept new pledges after December 28, 2012. It will reopen January 2nd for new donations.

If you have any questions please contact Dawn Taylor at dawn.taylor@unitedwaygso.org or 336-378-6612.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UNITED WAY’S NEW INITIATIVE “EARLY IS BEST” ENHANCES CHILDREN’S EARLY DEVELOPMENT.

Greensboro, NC, December 5, 2012 –United Way of Greater Greensboro is introducing its new “Early Is Best” program on Friday, December 14, 8:00 am – 10:00 am in the Virginia Dare Room on the campus of University of North Carolina Greensboro. “Early Is Best” is included as part of United Way’s “Thriving at 3”, Early Childhood Initiative. Dr. Terri L. Shelton, Vice Chancellor for Research and Economic Development, will speak on “A Collective impact: Why Early Is Best for our Children, Families, Schools, Businesses and Community.

“Early Is Best” will implement key recommendations of the “2009 Ready Together Community Assessment”. The goal of these recommendations is to create effective community partnerships to enhance children’s early development. “Early Is Best” will focus on promoting positive parenting and evidence-based interventions to support maternal and child mental health.

UWGG’s “Early Is Best” programming and services will include staffing a nurse specializing in infant and maternal mental health with the Universal Newborn Home Visitation Program. In addition, the project will support a positive parenting collaborative to enhance early parenting intervention and education programs and to build the capacity of community partners to deliver effective programs. Numerous studies have shown how critical the early years are to children’s development; as well as the benefits of providing mothers with evidence-based educational programs; nurse home visitation services, and infant and maternal mental health support.

Through funding and support from the Cemala Foundation and the Bryan Foundation, UWGG has engaged three partners to advance this work in the community. These partners include the Guilford County Department of Public Health and the Children’s Home Society / Family Life Council. UNCG’s Center for Youth, Family and Community Partnerships will serve as the research and implementation partner and will provide technical assistance, evaluation and oversight.

For more information, contact Traci McLemore at (336) 378-6616 or Traci.mclemore@unitedwaygso.org.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro supports critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments.

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Looking to give back this holiday season? Join Young Leaders for a day of service!

Saturday, December 8 from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

2012 HoliDAYS of Service Projects:

Adult Center for Enrichment (ACE) - Some of you may have volunteered here during Spring Into Service. Now we have the opportunity to help them with a Fall cleanup! United Way will provide some yard tools and hot cocoa. If anyone else has yard tools they can loan us for the day (rakes, gloves, etc.) they would be very much appreciated!

Volunteer Center of Greater Greensboro - The Volunteer Center is a great organization that helps many members of our community, and they need our help reorganizing and decorating their office. No supplies are needed.

United Way of Greater Greensboro - We will help clean and bag books for the United Way’s Thriving at 3 program. Thriving at 3 is an early childhood initiative of United Way of Greater Greensboro with a simple premise: children who are healthy, physically and emotionally, by age 3 are more likely to be successful in school and in life. No supplies are needed.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way of Greater Greensboro Adds Three New Team Members.

Greensboro, NC, November 20, 2012 – United Way of Greater Greensboro announces the addition of three new key staff members to its team.

Marci Peace has been hired as the new Vice President of Finance and Administration. In her new role, she will be responsible for the Finance Department, Human Resources and IT. Marci is a Certified Public Accountant with experience in audit, cost, managerial, and donor accounting, reporting and analysis, as well as, process improvement. She joins United Way from Greensboro College where she was the Vice President of Administration and Finance since 2001.

Ray Robinson joins the team as a new Relationship Manager. His responsibilities include fundraising and managing volunteer strategies. Ray most recently served as Director of Development at Ken Etheridge & Associates a full-service marketing and advertising agency.

Katherine Pickett has been named Executive Administrative Assistant. In her role, she will be responsible for providing support to the President and other key leaders. Katherine has a track record of excellent support and joins United Way from Targacept, a pharmaceutical research company.

United Way of Greater Greensboro supports critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way of Greater Greensboro Hosts Annual Trunk or Treat Event
Calling All Kids!

Greensboro, NC – On Sunday, October 28th, the United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Young Leaders will host their annual “Trunk or Treat” event from 2pm-4pm in the United Way Parking Lot located at 1500 Yanceyville Street in Greensboro.

The trunk or treat event also offers a variety of exciting activities for kids of all ages. Young Leaders will be organizing a variety of events, including face painting, guessing games, bean bag toss, a cake walk, and lots of prizes! For those with a competitive spirit, the “best-decorated” trunk will win the prize! Last year, over 40 trunks provided tricks, treats, and activities for over 700 people of all ages.

There is a variety of ways for the community to help or get involved:
1) Donate a Trunk. Donate $50.00 and your name will be displayed on one of the participating trunks. Please make checks payable to United Way of Greater Greensboro and send to 1500 Yanceyville Street Greensboro, NC 27401 Attn: Young Leaders.
2) Decorate a Trunk. Sign up to create your own ghoulishly decorated trunk, and pass out candy to children from the community and United Way sponsored programs.
3) Bring your children! Kids of all ages are welcome at the United Way Young Leaders trunk or treat! We hope to see you on October 28th from 4pm-6pm!

United Way Young Leaders is a group of young professionals under 40 years old who give $120 or more to support United Way and are passionate about volunteering to make things happen in our community.

For more information about this event or United Way Young Leaders, please contact United Way of Greater Greensboro at 336-378-6600 or visit unitedwaygso.org .

United Way of Greater Greensboro supports 89 programs and initiatives through 29 member agencies and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments.
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This event is for current providers of youth mentoring programs in the Greater Greensboro area to learn about Mentoring Matters, a community-wide initiative, and discuss how United Way of Greater Greensboro can support their work.

December 11th , 8:00 – 9:30 am

United Way of Greater Greensboro
1500 Yanceyville Street in Greensboro

Due to room restrictions, please limit your organization to sending no more than 2 representatives to this meeting.

Pre-Registration is required. Please click here to register. 

For more details, contact  Traci McLemore at (336) 378-6616.

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During election season, it is easy to become disenchanted by the entire political process. If you find yourself changing channels at the first mention of a political candidate, you know exactly what I mean. Who isn’t ready for election season to be over?

With all of the media hype around the Presidential and Gubernatorial elections, it’s easy for local elections to get overlooked. I’ll even admit that I can not exactly recite which local districts I even belong to until I look it up. (P.S.–You can also look up your voter information here!)

Who cares about local elections anyway? If you’re an advocate for education (like me), you should!

Did you know that over 84% of the Guilford County Schools budget comes from state, county, and local funding?

Teachers and other support staff may be the front line of instructing and supporting our students, but they are operating within a budget and system of standards passed down from the people you and I elect. It is our School Board Members, County Commissioners, State Senators and Representatives who make the decisions that directly affect how we provide education to our students in Guilford County.

As part of Give Kids Good Schools Week, I’m asking you to do a little grown-up homework! Take 30 minutes to get informed about your local candidates on the ballot.

Start here by entering your name to look up your sample ballot. Browse the internet for your candidates positions Then take your knowledge to the polls. Make an informed vote that will elect candidates who can give kids good schools and improve the quality of life in our community.

This article was written by Anna Hoy, Marketing & Communications Specialist for United Way of Greater Greensboro.  Anna received a BS  in Human & Organizational Development and Child Studies from Vanderbilt University and a Masters in Public Administration from UNC Greensboro. After teaching primary school in Uganda in 2006, Anna became a passionate advocate for youth development and public education. Her favorite quote is “Service is the rent that you pay for room on this earth.”– Shirley Chisholm

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UNITED WAY ANNOUNCES HANDBAGS FOR LITERACY, A CELEBRATION OF FASHION AND COMPASSION.

Greensboro, NC, September 25, 2012 –United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership Committee announces its third annual fall event, “Handbags For Literacy”. The event will be held Thursday, October 18th, with doors open at 5:30 p.m. in the Empire Room at 203 South Elm Street in downtown Greensboro.

The event includes a live auction of an incredible selection of new and gently used “designer” handbags. Admission to the event is only $5.00 and includes appetizers and celebratory beverages for everyone as well as a bidding number for the handbag auction.

The money raised from the auction will benefit the new expansion project for United Way’s Thriving At 3 Initiative – “Raising A Reader”. The program specifically assists economically disadvantaged families in the Greater Greensboro area and provides them access to a broad collection of high quality, award winning children’s books for parents to share with their children.

“Our mission, in Women’s Leadership, is to develop powerful philanthropists through giving and volunteerism. This event is a wonderful opportunity that will help empower parents as teachers to prepare children for a strong start in kindergarten as life-long learners and will enrich a child’s life for years to come”, stated Kim Yount, Women’s Leadership Committee Chair.

For the event, United Way is requesting donations of new and gently used “designer” handbags by October 10th. Donations are being accepted at the United Way of Greater Greensboro offices located at 1500 Yanceyville Street, between the hours of 8:30 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. There will also be a one-day drop-off site on Thursday, October 4th from 10 a.m. to noon and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Friendly Shopping Center Customer Service Center at 3110 Kathleen Avenue.

Also available is the “Girlfriend Package” for tables up to 6 guests which includes admission, bidding paddles, guaranteed seating, a bottle of champagne to share, and a platter of appetizers. The cost is $75 prior to September 30 and $100 thereafter. A limited number of tables is available.

For more information, contact Julie Longmire at (336) 378-5023 or Julie.longmire@unitedwaygso.org. More details are also available at unitedwaygso.org.
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United Way of Greater Greensboro supports 89 programs and initiatives through 29 member agencies and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health. 2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way. In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way. In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments.
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Director, Marketing & Communications

336-378-6617

John.McLendon@unitedwaygso.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Leaders Gather Around “Blueprint for Lasting Change”

Greensboro, NC, September 19, 2012 – Today, United Way of Greater Greensboro presented its “Blueprint for Lasting Change” at N.C. A & T University’s Alumni Event Center. United Way presented an overview of objectives and strategicplans for adding new community goals beyond fund raising.Community leaders, United Way agencies and other business partners gathered to participate in the kick off event which also unveiled its collaborative goal setting plan and its own campaign target.

Two years ago after United Way presented the Voices. Choices.Human Service Needs Assessment that identified four human service priorities.  Community and agency leaders, worked together to develop community level goals to address these priorities. United Way also announced new funding strategies.The new strategies will be measureable and will directly relateto community goals that have been and are being set in the areasof Education, Income and Health. “We are becoming conveners and facilitators by working with community partners to set and achieve community level goals for greater impact.  And, we are building stronger relationships with donors to maximize their time, treasures and voice” stated Sue Cole, Chairman of the Board of United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Richard L. “Skip” Moore, President of the Weaver Foundationserved as moderator for a panel discussion among educators and agencies. They discussed how different interests and groups in the community have come together collectively to produce a positive impact in the community by addressing these human conditions.

United Way announced new strategies for funding agency programs and a community wide mentoring initiative, “Mentoring Matters” which align with AchieveGuilford goals. United Way partner agency, Communities In Schools, also announced the first year success of the new African Americanand Latino male initiative. This mentoring program at Wiley Elementary School, included nearly 50 2nd to 5th grade boys thathave been mentored since January, 2012.  As a result of United Way and after school supports, these boys dramatically improved their success in school.  92% of the boys mentored passed the math End of Grade test and 75% passed the Reading End of Grade test.   “Our track record shows that when we all work together, our kids win”, stated Tony Watlington, Strategic Planning Director of Guilford County Schools.

United Way also shared successes achieved in its five year Thriving At Three initiative which is focused on at risk children,aged 0 to 3, to ensure they achieve critical milestones in their health and developmental behavior.  Results include the opening of the Born Learning Trail, in the Claremont Courts Community, as well as starting the Raising A Reader forClaremont Courts, two local daycare centers and Jones Elementary School.

“In order to make a significant change in community conditions in these programs and many of the strong traditional programs that United Way funds in these areas, we must be able to measure progress consistently and collectively and we must harness the power of volunteer contributions as well as financial contributions” said Keith Barsuhn President & CEO of United Way.

To support the changes as well as build capacity in the existing 89 programs and initiatives funded by United Way, Chancellor Harold Martin of North Carolina A&T State University and2012 United Way Campaign Chair announced a fundraising goal of $11,000,000, which is a 3.5% increase over last years resul

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United Way of Greater Greensboro supports 89 programs and initiatives through 29 member agencies and partners meeting critical needs in our community in the areas of education, income and health.  2012 marks the 125th birthday of the United Way.  In 1887, in Denver, CO, United Way became one of the most important social inventions in history and sparked a movement that established United Way.  In 2012, United Way of Greater Greensboro celebrates 90 years of local investments.

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Many issues are important to all of us. Issues like the economy, jobs, a good education for the next generation of American workers and building strong communities.

If you care about these or other issues, the best way you can make a difference, is to register to VOTE and turn out on Election Day or during early voting to make sure your voice is heard.

Today through October 12, you can register (and update your registration) to VOTE in the November 6th elections.

You may be wondering, “Am I eligible to vote?” Do you meet these requirements:

• Are you a US Citizen?
• Are you a resident of North Carolina?
• Have you lived in your county for at least 30 days?
• Are you 18 years old, or will you be 18 years old before November 6 (election day)?

If you were previously convicted of a felony, your citizenship rights must be restored to make you eligible to vote.
If you answered yes to the questions above, you are eligible to VOTE.

Registering to VOTE is a simple process. Visit ncsbe.gov to download registration forms, see sample ballots and discover answers to questions like:

• Who are my elected officials?
• What elections can I vote in?
• Where do I go to vote
• Can I vote early
• Am I already registered?

Join with United Way and make your voice heard on important issues like education, financial stability and health.

VOTE on election day. REGISTER NOW.

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WHEN: doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Live auction begins at 6:00 p.m.

WHERE: “That” Space located in The Empire Room
203 S. Elm Street, Greensboro
*Complimentary Parking in adjacent deck

Bring your family and friends out for an incredible night of fun, fashion and fundraising to benefit disadvantaged children on Thursday, October 18. For a $5 admission, each participant receives a bidding number, wine, appetizers and the chance to own a designer handbag. A wide selection will be auctioned, with a bag to fit every budget.

The money raised from the auction will benefit the new expansion project from United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Thriving at Three Initiative – “Raising A Reader.” The program specifically assists economically disadvantaged families living in the Greater Greensboro area and provides them with access to a broad collection of high quality, award winning children‘s books for parents to share with their children. By empowering parents as teachers to read to their children and prepare them for a strong start in kindergarten, they will be encouraged as life long learners.

Donations of New and gently used designer handbag may be made at United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville Street.

New for 2012! Reserved seating is available with the Girlfriend Package, which includes sponsorship and registration for a table up to six seats, a bottle of champagne, souvenir glasses to keep, and a platter of appetizers for the table to share.

For more information, contact Julie Longmire at 336-378-5023.

[fbphotos id=10150348603377029 limit=10 rand=1]

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Last week, a News & Record story reported on the incredible turnaround of EOG results at Wiley Elementary School. Wiley Elementary School’s success is a testament to the outstanding school leadership of its Principal, Dr. Sheila Gorham, and her teaching staff.  It is also demonstrates the impact that mentoring for a young child can have to help them succeed in school and in life. United Way of Greater Greensboro gives a BIG THANK YOU to those volunteers who, starting in January 2012, made the commitment to mentor every young male student, from 2nd to 5th grade. 49 matches were made and our community partner Communities in Schools of Greater Greensboro managed the effort doing an outstanding job in just six months!

Let’s recap the facts. Reading End-of-Grade Tests (EOGs) show that 62. 9% of the students at Wiley passed, and students who participated in mentoring achieved a 75% pass level. The Guilford County Schools (GCS) average average is 68.1%. Even more impressive is the Math EOG’s showing that 86.6% of the students passed, and the mentored students achieved a 92% pass level shattering the GCS average of 82%!

Bottom line, the African American Male Initiative (AAMI) mentor volunteers are AWESOME and they, along with Communities in Schools of Greater Greensboro and Guilford County Schools, are to be congratulated for demonstrating how achieving a greater impact in the lives of a community of young boys is possible. United Way endeavors to expand this model and others like it. Be ready for the United Way Mentoring Matters campaign which will set bold goals for more engagement with African American and Hispanic young males through the mentoring experience.

THANK YOU to United Way’s African American Leadership Group for the vision and commitment to take on such an important life changing community program!

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This blog post was written by Susan Watson in a series of guest blogs surrounding Women in Philanthropy on May 22nd. Susan works for Northwestern Mutual and has been a UWGG donor for 12 years.  Susan is a member of United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership Council, serving as chair in 2010.

In the days following the 2nd Annual  Women  in Philanthropy Luncheon,  I heard a number of discussions around the idea put forth by Karen Walrond of a life list, or as she likes to call it, a life menu.  Karen explained that a menu differs from a bucket list, giving us options to pick and choose from things that make us smile or give us joy.   This appealed to me because I am a list maker, lots of lists, all kinds of lists.  That doesn’t necessarily mean I get a lot of things checked off, I just like to plan, organize and make lists.  I strongly suspect that I’m not alone.

One conversation I heard was about Susan’s (another Susan) great Easter trip to the Mykonos Islands.  After hearing her describe it, I added it to my list which is already filled with travel.  But, as we are making our life menus, I hope one phrase comes to mind that Karen, very carefully wove in an out of her story:  “help where you can”.  She heard it from her father all through her childhood, help where you can.  Our greatest smiles come when we’ve taken the time to make others smile.

In the spirit of helping others, my list (I still like to call it a list) also has an entry for a foreign mission trip.  Does that mean I can check off helping others with that one big trip?  I think not.  I believe that Karen’s father meant help where you can, every time you can, with the talents and resources that you’ve been given.

United Way supports 70 programs and initiatives through 29 member agencies. Each program and initiative must demonstrate that it meets a need in the community, makes an impact, and aligns with United Way’s objectives.  Let me say it once more, fully vetted programs that meet a need right here in our community.  There is something for you. This is your call to action: join us, Women in Philanthropy, African American Leadership, Young Leaders… help where you can.

I think William Arthur Ward said it best: “Blessed is the person who sees the need, recognizes the responsibility, and actively becomes the answer.”

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What happens when school lets out?

Hunger is one of the most severe roadblocks to the learning process. Lack of nutrition during the summer months may set up a cycle for poor performance once school begins again. Hunger also may make children more prone to illness and other health issues. ¹

We believe that children should not have to worry where they will find their next meal. 

While Guilford County Schools provides seven Greensboro locations for summer meals, United Way’s 2012 Summer MeaningFULL Meals project seeks to provide substantive meals for students in the Gillespie Park Elementary and Wiley Elementary School communities for the 10 weeks school is not in session.

Because of generous contributions, last summer approximately 100 families received weekly bags of non-perishable food at Gillespie Park Elementary School.

This year we are expanding the MeaningFULL Meals program to include students in United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Male Mentoring Pilot Program, located at Wiley Elementary School. Both the Wiley Elementary School Principal Dr. Shelia Gorham and Mentoring Program Director Rashard Jones are excited to learn that the progress gained by the 50 young men in grades 2-5 will be supported by a unified effort to provide nutritional meals for the students over the summer break. In addition to MeaningFULL Meals, participants in the AAM Mentoring Pilot Program at Wiley will also participate in a summer enrichment program.

LIVE UNITED and get involved! 

GIVE
Donate food items including:
Mac & Cheese (microwaveable); Canned Veggies; Bread; Tuna & Chicken (vacuum sealed); Ramen Noodles; Fruit Cups; Applesauce; Fruit Roll-Ups; Juice Boxes; Dried Rice & Beans; Peanut Butter & Jelly (pre-made or individual jars); Breakfast Cereal (hot and cold); Pop-Tarts; Graham and Other Snack Crackers; Chips; Pasta & Spaghetti Sauce; Freeze Pops; Hamburger Helper; Single Serve Size Spaghetti & Lasagna (non-perishable)

Donations can be dropped off at United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Office (1500 Yanceyville St., Greensboro) Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

ADVOCATE
Share facts about summer-time childhood hunger with your friends and colleagues. Click here to download one fact for each week throughout the summer.

Coordinate a food drive at your workplace. We need sustained drives from now until the end of August. Contact Tamera Zigalar (Leadership Giving Manager) at 336-378-6604 for additional information about coordinating a drive.

VOLUNTEER 
Sign up to pack bags and distribute food on a Tuesday or Thursday at either Gillespie Park or Wiley Elementary school. Distribution begins Tuesday, June 12 and ends Thursday, August 23. Click here to register as a volunteer. 

^{1-US Dept. of Agriculture Summer Food Service Program (www.fns.usda.gov/cnd/summer/)}

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Young Leaders will be getting together at The Speak Easy Tavern (1706 Battleground Ave., Greensboro) for an afternoon of friendly competition! We have the patio and back bar reserved from 1-4 PM and will be providing free appetizers.  Click the link below to register your team in the competition.

Young Leaders are professionals under age 40 who give $120 or more to support United Way of Greater Greensboro. Some Young Leaders are passionate about being an advocate for issues like Education, Income Stability, and Health. Other Young Leaders are passionate about volunteering and want to make things happen in our community. They know that if they want to make things happen they have to get involved.

Being a Young Leader is about connecting with people who care and supporting the work of United Way.  Like us on Facebook to stay up to date with Young Leader events and activities. 

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This blog post was written by Ann Zuraw in a series of guest blogs leading up to Women in Philanthropy on May 22nd. Ann is the author of  Chicks, Chat and Change and has been a UWGG donor for over a decade.  Ann is in her third year as Chair of United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Tocqueville Women’s Leadership. 

I just came back from attending the United Way Conference in Nashville (pictured above). What an amazing experience to be with people that are so inspiring.

The focus of the United Way is to inspire, engage and change the world. United Ways are making a tremendous impact. We had the opportunity to meet fascinating people leading the philanthropic movements in India, Romania, Nigeria, and Ghana just to name a few countries. It showed the power and strength of networking worldwide.

I heard strong statistics supporting the critical need in the United States to improve graduation outcomes. One in four students (or 1.3 million youth) will not graduate from high school in the U.S.

United Way’s focus is on education, financial stability and healthcare to provide the opportunity for a better life. It brings multiple sectors of the community together to support a common goal to drive change. Local United Way’s across the country are focusing to help youth prepare for success in college, work and life.

Please join us for lunch on May 22nd to learn more about how the United Way of Greensboro focus on mentoring is supporting students in Greensboro so we can be a leader in creating a foundation of success for youth.

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Greensboro, NC – United Way of Greater Greensboro presents its second annual Women In Philanthropy Luncheon on Tuesday, May 22, United Way of Greater Greensboro’s second annual Women in Philanthropy luncheon will bring together the community to celebrate the spirit of giving.  The luncheon will be held at the Greensboro Marriot Downtown, 304 N. Greene Street, beginning at 11:30 am.

Together, United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership and Tocqueville Women’s Leadership groups represent Women in Philanthropy: women united, to promote community resources that advance family issues.

This year, Women In Philanthropy is excited to announce Karen Walrond, writer and photographer, as the keynote speaker. Karen Walrond, a former engineer and attorney, is the author of Chookooloonks, the award-winning website which pairs striking imagery and inspiring words to provide evidence that the ordinary is, in fact, extraordinary. Karen will share her thoughts on what makes us different makes us beautiful — and may even be the source of our superpowers.

Attendees have the opportunity to win prizes as they network with United Way partner agencies focusing on mentoring and direct volunteer opportunities with children and youth during the program showcase.  Tickets are $35 (including lunch entrée) and are available to purchase online by May 20^th at www.unitedwaygso.org.

For a building to be stable for the long term, it needs a solid foundation. The same is true for life. United Way of Greater Greensboro focuses on education, income and health, because these are the building blocks for a good quality of life.

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GREENSBORO, NC – United Way of Greater Greensboro held its Annual Meeting on May 9, 2012. During Annual Meeting business, changes in United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Board of Directors were announced. Many new community leaders joined the board and dedicated members announced retirement from board service.

Retiring from board

Mike Bumpass, First Point, Inc./GMA
Lee McAllister, Weaver Investment Company
Laurie Weaver, Our State Magazine/Mann Media
Otis Wilson

New to board

Pete Callahan, Wells Fargo
Dr. Harold Martin, North Carolina A&T
Samantha Magill, HondaJet
John Riley, Syngenta
Ben Zuraw, Greensboro Day School

Elected Terms Expiring June 2013

Dr. Linda Adams, North Carolina A&T
Dr. Linda P. Brady, University of North Carolina Greensboro
Mona Edwards, Center for Creative Leadership
Kathi Lester, Greensboro Chamber of Commerce
Susan Shumaker, Cone Health Foundation
Sapna Tejpal, Wells Fargo
Terry Worrell, Guilford County Schools
Bob Sherwood, Ecolab/Kay Chemical
Harold Martin, North Carolina A&T
Sanders Cockman, Merrill Lynch

Elected Terms Expiring June 2014

Ceceila Foy-Dorsett, Senn Dunn Insurance
Regina Howard Glaspie, News & Record
Bill Hoffman, United Parcel Service
Murray Kessler, Lorillard Inc.
Dan McGinn, Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard, LLP
Brad Rable, United Guaranty
Pressley Ridgill, NewBridge Bank
Martin Schneider, VF Corporation
Judy Schanel, Cone Health
Terry Simon, KPMG

Elected Terms Expiring June 2015

Tina Akers Brown, Greensboro Housing Authority
Pete Callahan, Wells Fargo
Odell Cleveland, Welfare Reform Liaison Project, Inc.
Michelle Gethers-Clark
Sue Cole, SAGE Leadership
Kim Gatling, Smith Moore Leatherwood LLP
John Riley, Syngenta
Aaron Strasser, Southern Plate and Glass Company
Mary Wood Copeland, Bell Partners, Inc.
Samantha Magill, HondaJet

Board appointees

Janice Brewington
John Cross, Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard, LLP
Sue D. White, Donathan Properties, Inc
Mike Mahoney, Northwestern Mutual Insurance
Ben Zuraw, Greensboro Day School

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This blog post was written by Susan Watson in a series of guest blogs leading up to Women in Philanthropy on May 22nd. Susan works for Northwestern Mutual and has been a UWGG donor for 12 years.  Susan is a member of United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership Council, serving as chair in 2010.  

I thought through the archives of my life to search for that one person on whom I could bestow the title of my mentor. Everybody has one, right? I discovered that my mentors were many, they were different ages, had different faces, different body styles, from different walks of life, they even crossed gender lines. They were teachers, supervisors, friends who listened and supported me, and coworkers who put up with me daily.

However, there was one woman, one lone woman who stood out from the others. She became a single parent when I was five years old. For 51 years she stood in front of me to protect me, she stood beside me to cheer me on, she stood behind me to prop me up on more occasions than I’d like to admit. And did I mention that more times than not, she stood in my face over her grandchildren, challenging every decision I made regarding them. June 20, 2007 my mother left a hole in my life that will never be filled, but her legacy lives on through my children.

Mentors can be younger than you. A mentor is someone who teaches and guides, listens, holds you accountable and loves you when you do not meet expectations. That is where my children come in; Julie, Jeff, and Justin continue to have more impact on me than anyone. They know my successes and my failures. They can read all of my unspoken expressions. They encourage and lift me up, they listen, and they have no problem calling me out when they have the audacity to think I’m wrong.

On May 22nd, United Way of Greater Greensboro will celebrate the power of women to create positive change in their community. Keynote speaker Karen Walrond, author of The Beauty of Different and photographer/blogger for Chookooloonks.com, believes that each of us have a unique and different gift that can make a big impact in our world. At United Way, we believe it’s women, just like Susan (and her mom), who will use these gifts in a way that makes the world a better place. 

For more information about how you can get involved with United Way, click here.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro is proud to announce the 2012 Volunteers of the Year. The award recipients were honored at the annual Breakfast for Champions Campaign Celebration, which was held on Thursday, April 26th, at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex. The Volunteers of the Year award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to United Way, and have continually gone above and beyond in order to support our mission of improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community.

Philip Jones, Reporter at WFMY News 2, and Tamera Ziglar, Leadership Giving Manager at United Way of Greater Greensboro, presented the awards to outstanding companies and individuals. The Volunteers of the Year for 2012 awards went to:

Aaron Strasser, Vice President of Southern Plate & Window Glass, has provided volunteer leadership to United Way of Greater Greensboro for five years.  He currently serves as the chair of the Caring for Everyone’s Health Focus Area Committee, is a member of the Community Investment Council and Board of Directors, and has participated in United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Funding Objective Review Process.  During Mr. Strasser’s tenure, he has devoted more than 200 hours of his time. “Volunteering at the United Way is meaningful to me because I know that the work we are doing has an impact in our community,” Mr. Strasser said. “Every day, programs that we support are making the lives of members of our community better.”

Cleon Reece is a Campaign Associate for United Way of Greater Greensboro. Sponsored by International Textile Group, Mr. Reece has served in his capacity of Campaign Associate for nearly 15 years. His passion for the vision and mission of United Way is unmatched. Eager to share the message of United Way, Mr. Reece openly gives of his time, treasure, and talents for our community. Mr. Reece is a prime example of what it means to LIVE UNITED.

Laurie Weaver, Online Media Manager at Our State, has served on the Helping People Help Themselves Focus Area Committee for more than five years, chairing the committee for a majority of that time.  She is also a member of the Community Investment Council and Board of Directors. This year, Ms. Weaver participated in United Way of Greater Greensboro’s funding objective review process. “United Way is such an important part of the greater Greensboro community. As a volunteer, I feel fortunate to have been able to see first-hand, through the allocations process, the great work of so many diverse agencies and programs,” Ms. Weaver said. “It’s been a truly rewarding experience to be a part of the United Way’s effort in supporting that work.”

Tina Akers Brown, Executive Director of the Greensboro Housing Authority, has been a dedicated volunteer with United Way of Greater Greensboro for 14 years. Most recently, Ms. Brown has led the Growing Successful Kids Focus Area Committee. In addition, Ms. Brown serves on United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Board of Directors, Community Investment Council, Funding Objective Review Process, and actively participates in Women’s Leadership and African American Leadership groups. United Way looks forward to celebrating the upcoming opening of the Thriving at 3 Born Learning Trail at Greensboro Housing Authority’s Claremont Courts Neighborhood, a collaborative project between United Way of Greater Greensboro and Greensboro Housing Authority, which couldn’t have been achieved without Ms. Brown’s support.

Lucy Kluttz has been a volunteer with United Way since 2009. Ms. Kluttz wears more hats for United Way of Greater Greensboro than can be found in a hat store. From being the first person to greet people at United Way’s door to coordinating volunteers and supporting fundraising efforts, Ms. Kluttz does it all. “I saw so much need out there when I used to practice bankruptcy law,” Ms. Kluttz stated. “I felt like there had to be another way to help more people. I think United Way is the most efficient way to help the most people.”

An online photo gallery of last week’s event on is available on United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/unitedwaygso). United Way funds programs and initiatives that address critical community needs. United Way is committed to Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone’s Health.

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“Paint Day” for the Claremont Courts Born Learning Trail will be held Monday, May 7th, from 10 am to 1 pm in the community located off Phillips Avenue.

Children enrolled in the Thriving at Three program, along with their parents, service providers, and staff and volunteers from Greensboro Housing Authority (GHA) and United Way of Greater Greensboro will participate in painting hopscotch, shapes, designs and numbers on the trail that extends approximately 1,373 feet through the heart of Claremont Courts to the McGirt Horton Library.

The Born Learning Trail is an engaging path of interactive activities that helps parents/caregivers promote language and pre-literacy skills, motor skills and school readiness for their young children. The trail, funded in part by the Tocqueville Women’s Leadership of the United Way of Greater Greensboro, includes exercise equipment, play and sidewalk graphics and will serve as an educational and fun area for young children in the community.

“Our commitment is that every child in the Claremont Courts community gets off to the best start. We care so deeply about these kids and their families,” said Keith Barsuhn, President, United Way of Greater Greensboro. Thriving at Three operates under the premise of “children who are healthy physically and emotionally by age three are more likely to be successful in school and in life.” “The partnership with GHA Born Learning Trail is the perfect way to link together important assets to the community,” stated Barsuhn.

Claremont Courts provides 250 affordable housing apartments for over 700 low-income, handicapped and elderly Greensboro residents. The modernization of the community was made possible by the award of $5.58 million in Housing and Urban Development Capital Fund Formula Grant funds pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The community now includes newly designed exterior facades for all apartments; the addition of a new handicap-accessible community building that houses community meeting space, a kitchen, Police Neighborhood Resource Center, property management offices, and program staff offices; and new landscaping throughout. An additional $1.8 million in GHA’s Capital Funds provided installation of 250 high energy-star rate 15 SEER heating and cooling systems for the community.

“With the help of Tocqueville Women’s Leadership and United Way of Greater Greensboro, we will offer our youngest residents a great beginning with the Born Learning Trail. Through the complete community renovations, we will provide Claremont families a great place to call home,” said Tina Akers Brown, Chief Executive Officer for the Greensboro Housing Authority.

Three hundred plants were also donated on April 26th by Syngenta. Mums, geraniums and salvia are being planted throughout the community. The official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for the community will be held May 11, 2012.

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Greensboro, NC – United Way of Greater Greensboro in partnership with Greensboro Housing Authority will participate in the painting of the Born Learning trail.  Volunteers are invited to help paint the trail on May 7^th in preparation for the grand opening of the trail on May 11^th.

Volunteers are needed from 9am-1pm to assist with the following:

• set up/clean up
• handing out and snacks and water
• distributing supplies and materials
• helping parents w/their children paint shapes, letters, numbers, hopscotch squares, etc. along the walkway of the Born Learning Trail

For decades the statistics have shown that children of different socio-economic backgrounds are performing at significantly different levels when it comes to literacy. The achievement gap widens in reading as children progress through school and may be caused by a deficit in vocabulary. Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds are exposed to nearly 30 million less words than some of their more privileged peers by age three. Exposure to words as a young child can make the difference in the future of students when it comes to reading ability. Kindergarten scores on the early literacy measures are highly predictive of their scores on reading comprehension and receptive vocabulary in fourth and seventh grade.

In response to the community needs, United Way of Greater Greensboro began Thriving at 3, an early childhood initiative which operates under the premise “children who are healthy physically and emotionally by age three are more likely to be successful in school and in life”. Thriving at 3 officially became part of United Way of American’s Born Learning national public engagement campaign in 2008 with primary support from Tocqueville Women’s Leadership.  Born Learning is the public engagement campaign that helps parents, caregivers and communities create early learning opportunities for young children.  Today, Thriving at 3 provides direct service to over 100 families focusing on children’s development, parenting education, family support and promoting early literacy. Extending opportunities in the broader community, the Tocqueville Women’s Leadership Group also support the McGirt-Horton Family Place Play-N-Learn free and fun playgroups for children 1 t0 3 years old and their parents/caregivers.

“We care so deeply about these kids.  We are committed to every child in the Claermont Courts community that they all get off to the best start.  The partnership with GHA Born Learning Trail is the perfect way to link together important assets to the community,” said Keith Barsuhn, President, United Way of Greater Greensboro .

The Born Learning Trail is an actual walking path bordered with playground and fitness equipment; and colorful signage offering guidance encouraging parents/caregivers to interact, talk, listen and play– engaging them in learning activities with their children.  The path connects the Claremont Courts community to the McGirt Horton Library.

Three hundred plants were also donated to United Way on April 26^th by Syngenta’s Demonstration day event.  Mums, Geranium and Veronica are being planted around the trail prior to the trail opening.

For more information on how you can get involved, contact United Way of Greater Greensboro at 336.378.6600.

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Have you ever played that game where you draw up a guest list for your dream dinner party, including only famous people, whether or not they’re still living? I love that game. Some favourite answers I’ve often heard are John Lennon, Elvis Presley, Nelson Mandela, Jesus, Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mother Teresa. (Personally, I would invite all of those people, and also add Steve Jobs, Ann Richards, Barack Obama, Aretha Franklin, Bill Bryson, the Dalai Lama, Harper Lee, Maya Rudolph and Lady Gaga. That, my friends, would be a dinner party.)

Another person who has always been near the top of my invitation list, however (and also one of the most common answers I hear, of course) is Mahatma Gandhi. His philosophy on nonviolence, specifically to effect change, continues to be so revolutionary, especially in this time of continued war. I’ve been intrigued by his teachings since I was quite young, and the thought of ever sitting down with him one-on-one and asking him questions about his life and times is a fantasy I’ve harboured for many years.

Obviously, this is never going to happen. But late last year, I experienced the next best thing.

In early November, Stephen F. Austin State University held their annual Leadership Conference, and the theme was “Be the Change,” based on the quote from Mahatma Gandhi, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Needless to say, it was an honour to be asked to be the closing keynote for this event, and an invitation that I gratefully accepted. But I became even more excited when I subsequently learned that the lunchtime keynote was Mr. Arun Gandhi, the venerable Mahatma Gandhi’s grandson. Mr. Gandhi was born in apartheid-era South Africa, and after facing discrimination and bigotry (manifesting in a few serious beat-downs by both blacks and whites), his family sent him to India to live with his grandfather, during the time when the Mahatma’s influence was at its height. Over the weekend, Mr. Gandhi spoke several times — at a private dinner on Friday, and a private breakfast on Saturday morning before his lunchtime keynote — but for me, the most amazing moments came before breakfast the morning the conference began.

I’d woken up early to check out of my hotel and have a cup of tea before our host met us to take us to the university, and found Mr. Gandhi already sitting in the lobby reading the newspaper, having a cup of coffee. “You are welcome to join me,” he said with a smile, and so, after I made my cup of tea, I did.

We sat and talked for about 45 minutes — I asked him about his travels, his family, his thoughts on the state of the world today, all of which he answered fully and with astonishing patience, considering I was probably asking him questions he’d heard a million times before. The word that immediately comes to mind to describe him is “gentle” — he is a quiet man who speaks slowly and deliberately, and everything about him is circumspect. I couldn’t help but feel that I was in the presence of a truly extraordinary spirit, one full of incredible wisdom, and it made me feel very small and childlike, like I have so much more to learn and grow in my lifetime. He is extremely committed to spreading the message of pacifism and nonviolence espoused by his grandfather as much as possible, clearly considering it his life mission to carry on the torch. To say I am filled with admiration for the man would be the understatement of the century.

Later that day I watched him address the students of SFASU (some extraordinary spirits in their own right, I have to say), I couldn’t help but wonder if they really grasped what an incredible life experience they were having, just sitting in that room, listening to his words. In particular, I found myself looking around the room at the expressions of the young men and women in the room when Mr. Gandhi expressed his belief that we are not here by accident – we are here to fulfill a purpose. He talked about “trusteeship,” as espoused by his grandfather: we all have talents — each and every one of us — but we feel like we own the talent or gift. The Mahatma believed that we don’t own them, but rather we are trustees of the talent, and we are called upon to use these talents for the benefit of others.

I believe this wholeheartedly. In writing my book, The Beauty of Different, I found myself faced with a considerable body of evidence that everyone is Different, and that Different is often the source of immeasurable beauty. But I’ve also become to believe that perhaps these differences aren’t just coincidences – that there’s a reason we are Different. It has occurred to me more recently that these Differents may have been specifically designed for each of us to help change the world – or, at the very minimum, help change our individual worlds.

And even if I’m wrong — even if there’s really no reason for us to have these gifts, that there is no meaning behind it, and it’s just some sort of evolutionary scientific luck-of-the-genetic-draw — it still behooves us to use these gifts in a way that makes the world, or at least our worlds, a little better, don’t you think? Besides, I have to think that using our gifts and our passions to help improve our communities is a much more sustainable (and fulfilling) action than simply signing our names to cheques: in my experience, giving back while simultaneous feeding our souls with what we love always feels great.

It’s something to think about, I guess.

And it might even make for great conversation at that dream dinner party.

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Photography is an art that I now realize I’ve always loved. On Thursday, I had the pleasure of taking photos at our annual campaign celebration. What I love most about my job when I’m wearing my “photographer hat” is that I get to capture the life, the beauty, in people. I enjoy getting to meet these fascinating people, who are all making a difference in their own way for our community, and then being able to share their beauty with others through my photos.

Next month, United Way of Greater Greensboro will welcome Karen Walrond, photographer, author, and blogger, to talk about what real beauty means to her. Take one glance at Karen’s work and you will find many answers to what beauty is. To me, real beauty radiates in people who live their lives with the purpose of leaving this world better than they found it. We all know the beauty we feel inside when we pay it forward or give back; that beauty inside makes people glow on the outside too.

The best part about my day at the celebration was getting to spend a few minutes with a handful of fourth-grade boys from Wiley Elementary School. After our event ended, the group of boys from our United Way sponsored mentoring program, who had served as ushers to the stage that morning, joined me in a spontaneous photography lesson.

It started by one of the boys who asked me to take a photo of him and his friends. I asked, “Have you ever taken photos with a camera like this?” “Hold this button until you see the red dots,” I would say, “then press it until you hear it click.” My camera must have rotated through four or five of the boys during that impromptu lesson, each one patiently waiting for their turn to capture the world through their eyes. When I got back to the office to upload the pictures, I started scrolling through the ones the boys had taken. Looking through the lens of those boys, you can see so much happiness, excitement, and the beauty of this life we’re in together.

And there was one photo that surprised me: a photo of me.

I admit I find it fun to take photos of people who radiate the spirit of what it means to LIVE UNITED; it’s just different when you’re normally behind the lens and see it in other people.  I’m hoping that the boy who captured this photo of me was experiencing that kind of fun too.

I get joy out of taking photos, but yesterday it seemed little in comparison to the expressions on these boys’ faces as they were furiously clicking away. Since I didn’t have my camera (as the boys were busy using it), I took a mental photo of watching this group of young boys, some of which may have never considered themselves photographers, capturing the beauty of life.  It was a photo I won’t forget.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro held its “Breakfast for Champions” campaign celebration at the Greensboro Coliseum’s Terrace Banquet Room on Thursday, April 26th. Dr. Linda Brady, United Way of Greater Greensboro’s 2011 Campaign Chair, announced that United Way of Greater Greensboro has raised more than $10.6 million for the community. United Way of Greater Greensboro will continue to fundraise year-round to have the greatest impact on community needs.

Linda Brady stated, “This year’s campaign is an excellent example of how Greensboro steps-up to support community needs by giving, advocating and volunteering.” This year has been an exceptional year of milestones for United Way of Greater Greensboro. They include embarking on the African American Male Initiative, which supports educational and personal growth of 2nd-5th grade boys at Wiley Elementary School. United Way celebrated its first Million dollar donor, Lorillard, Inc. Additionally, African American Leadership held its inaugural African American Speaker Series featuring internationally renowned, Pediatric Neurosurgeon and bestselling author Dr. Benjamin Carson. “We are fortunate to have generous corporate and individual partners who join together to make a difference in our community,” said Brady.

Corporations and individuals were recognized for outstanding accomplishments throughout the 2011 Campaign. Corporate partners and individuals were recognized with a variety of awards. They are:

Spirit of Greensboro Award

The Spirit of Greensboro Award recognizes outstanding commitment, participation, volunteer engagement, and successful leadership.

Lorillard Inc.

Excellence Awards

This award recognized each top company in four groups who had the highest percent increase in their employee and leadership giving, volunteer engagement, and involvement over the previous year.

Large Company (1,000+ employees): Lorillard, Inc.
Mid Size Company (101-999 employees): Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP
Small Company (Up to 100 employees): Southeast Fuels, Inc.
Non Profit Organization: Communities in Schools

Achievement Awards

Presented to companies with increased participation and giving per capita.

Platinum Level (100% participation and $400 + per capita)
2H Drafting, Inc.
Leeper, Kean & Rumley, LLP
Southeast Fuels, Inc.

Gold Level (75%+ participation and $250 + per capita)
Bank of North Carolina
The Business Journal
Carruthers & Roth, P.A.
Craft Insurance Center, Inc.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Hagan, Davis, Mangum, Barrett and Langley, PLLC
Kayser-Roth Corporation
Lorillard, Inc.
Premier Commercial Bank
Piedmont Natural Gas
PwC

Silver Level (50%+ participation and $175+ per capita)
Brown Investment Properties, Inc.
Dick Broadcasting Company, Inc.
Greensboro Chamber of Commerce
Johnson, Peddrick, & McDonald, PLLC
M.G. Newell Corporation
NewBridge Bank
Smith Moore Leatherwood, LLP
Bronze Level (40%+ participation and $100+ per capita)
Berico Fuels, Inc.
BGF Industries, Inc.
Duke Energy Corporation
First Citizens Bank & Trust
Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro
Lincoln Financial Group
Morrisette Paper Company
Penn National Insurance
Senn Dunn
United Guaranty Corporation
VF Corporation

Leadership Award

Recognizes the campaign with the highest level of participation at the leadership giving level.

Cone Health

Community Impact Award

Recognizes the workplace campaign with gifts given directly to the LIVE UNITED GIVE UNITED campaign which is the most powerful way to invest locally. These companies had an average per capita gift of $1,443, 58% participation, and 99.77% undesignated dollars.

Duke Energy Corporation
Higgins, Benjamin, Eagles & Adams, PLLC
Lincoln Financial Group
Piedmont Natural Gas

Come Back Kid Campaign

The Come Back Kid Campaign award recognizes the workplace campaign with the most significant revitalization of their campaign.

Cone Health

Top 10 Companies

1. Lorillard, Inc. $1,004,155
2. Lincoln Financial Group $630,945
3. Moses Cone Health System $611,843
4. VF Corporation $601,728
5. Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc. $341,382
6. UPS $296,939
7. United Guaranty Corporation $285,488
8. Guilford County Schools $249,315
9. Procter & Gamble $236,424
10. Volvo Group of Companies $229,672

CEO Leadership Award

This year United Way of greater Greensboro recognized a CEO who is visible and vocal in his/her involvement and support of United Way.

Murray Kessler – Chairman, President and CEO, Lorillard, Inc.

Outstanding Team Award

Recognizes the team that demonstrates extraordinary leadership, initiative and management of campaign with a high level of organization and creativity.

Large Company (1,000+ employees): Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.
Mid Size Company (101-999 employees): Novartis Animal Health
Small Company (Up to 100 employees): McGladrey
Non Profit Organization: Greensboro Housing Authority

“Reaching out a hand to influence the condition of ALL” Award

Recognizes companies that create unique opportunities to increase awareness and meet the critical needs in the community.

Bank of America
Beacon Technologies, Inc.
Cone Health
Evonik Stockhausen
News & Record
Scott Insurance
United Guaranty Corporation
Volvo Group of Companies

Employee Campaign Managers Award

Recognizes Campaign Managers who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to their workplace campaign.

Ruth Edwards – The ARC of Greensboro
Ford Bowers – BB&T
John Buford & Kathryn Whitaker – Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP
Karin Henderson – Cone Health
Chandra White & Tracey Parker – Deluxe Financial Services Customer Center
Kara-Lyn Little & Jim Wooten – Evonik Stockhausen
Natasha Howell – Guilford Child Development
Linda Fitts – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro
Jeff Busch & Kristine Williams – Kay Ecolab
Leslie Welch – Lorillard, Inc.
Brent Holmes – Procter & Gamble
Linda Jackson & Team – Smith Moore Leatherwood, LLP

“I Would do Anything for United Way” Award

This award recognizes companies that use creative incentives to get staff involved.

Cone Health
Lincoln Financial Group

Engagement Group “Stand-Outs”

This award recognizes individuals for their service to a United Way of Greater Greensboro Engagement group with enthusiasm and dedication.

African American Leadership: Deno Adkins and Regina Howard-Glaspie
Women’s Leadership: Samantha Lyons-Kittrell
Young Leaders: Cindy Edwards

Agencies & Standouts

This year United Way member agencies participated in over 200 company rallies, tours and fairs.

Outstanding United Way Member Agency Speaker of the Year Awards:

Judy West – Adult Center for Enrichment
Jimmi Williams – Communities In Schools
Sabrina Cooke-Davis – Family Life Council, Children’s Home Society of NC
Johnny Vineyard – Family Service of the Piedmont
Linda Fitts – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro
Jenny Gore – Reading Connections
Marcy Ray – Reading Connections

Outstanding United Way Member Agency Speaker Coordinators of the Year:

Frances Deblois and Diane Spurgeon – Family Service of the Piedmont
Tammy Chaput – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro
Marcy Ray – Reading Connections

United Way of Greater Greensboro Volunteers of Year
Individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to United Way and has continually gone above and beyond in order to support United Way’s mission.

Tina Akers-Brown
Lucy Kluttz
Cleon Reece
Aaron Strasser
Laurie Weaver

Keith Barsuhn, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro stated, “The contributions from companies and individuals are extraordinary, greatly appreciated and so very critical at this time. These dollars represent the largest collective source of private sector funds in Greensboro allocated each year to health and human service needs. More lives will be positively changed as a result of this collective impact.” United Way of Greater Greensboro Board of Directors approves funding decisions in May and its fiscal year ends June 30.

United Way funds programs and initiatives that address critical community needs. United Way is committed to Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone’s Health.

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Greensboro, NC – “Paint Day” for the Claremont Courts Born Learning Trail will be held Monday, May 7^th, from 10 am to 1 pm in the community located off Phillips Avenue.

Children enrolled in the Thriving at Three program, along with their parents, service providers, and staff and volunteers from Greensboro Housing Authority (GHA) and United Way of Greater Greensboro will participate in painting hopscotch, shapes, designs and numbers on the trail that extends approximately 1,373 feet through the heart of Claremont Courts to the McGirt Horton Library.

The Born Learning Trial is an engaging path of interactive activities that helps parents/caregivers promote language and pre-literacy skills, motor skills and school readiness for their young children.  The trail, funded in part by the Tocqueville Women’s Leadership of the United Way of Greater Greensboro, includes exercise equipment, play and sidewalk graphics and will serve as an educational and fun area for young children in the community.

“Our commitment is that every child in the Claremont Courts community gets off to the best start.  We care so deeply about these kids and their families,” said Keith Barsuhn, President, United Way of Greater Greensboro. Thriving at Three operates under the premise of “children who are healthy physically and emotionally by age three are more likely to be successful in school and in life.” “The partnership with GHA Born Learning Trail is the perfect way to link together important assets to the community,” stated Barsuhn.

Claremont Courts provides 250 affordable housing apartments for over 700 low-income, handicapped and elderly Greensboro residents.  The modernization of the community was made possible by the award of $5.58 million in Housing and Urban Development Capital Capital Fund Formula Grant funds pursuant to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  The community now includes newly designed exterior facades for all apartments; the addition of a new handicap-accessible community building that houses community meeting space, a kitchen, Police Neighborhood Resource Center, property management offices, and program staff offices; and new landscaping throughout.  An additional $1.8 million in GHA’s Capital Funds provided installation of 250 high energy-star rate 15 SEER heating and cooling systems for the community.

“With the help of Tocqueville Women’s Leadership and United Way of Greater Greensboro, we will offer our youngest residents a great beginning with the Born Learning Trail.  Through the complete community renovations, we will provide Claremont families a great place to call home,” said Tina Akers Brown, Chief Executive Officer for the Greensboro Housing Authority.

Three hundred plants were also donated on April 26th by Syngenta.  Mums, geraniums and salvia are being planted throughout the community. The official Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for the community will be held May 11, 2012.

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Greensboro, NC- United Way of Greater Greensboro held its “Breakfast for Champions” campaign celebration at the Greensboro Coliseum’s Terrace Banquet Room this morning. Dr. Linda Brady, United Way of Greater Greensboro’s 2011 Campaign Chair, announced that United Way of Greater Greensboro has raised more than $10.6 million for the community. United Way of Greater Greensboro will continue to fundraise year-round to have the greatest impact on community needs.

Linda Brady stated, “This year’s campaign is an excellent example of how Greensboro steps-up to support community needs by giving, advocating and volunteering.” This year has been an exceptional year of milestones for United Way of Greater Greensboro.  They include embarking on the African American Male Initiative, which supports educational and personal growth of 2nd-5th grade boys at Wiley Elementary School.  United Way celebrated its first Million dollar donor, Lorillard, Inc.  Additionally, African American Leadership held its inaugural African American Speaker Series featuring internationally renowned, Pediatric Neurosurgeon and bestselling author Dr. Benjamin Carson.  “We are fortunate to have generous corporate and individual partners who join together to make a difference in our community,” said Brady.

Corporations and individuals were recognized for outstanding accomplishments throughout the 2011 Campaign. Corporate partners and individuals were recognized with a variety of awards. They are:

Spirit of Greensboro Award                                                                       

The Spirit of Greensboro Award recognizes outstanding commitment, participation, volunteer engagement, and successful leadership.

Award winner: Lorillard Inc.

Excellence Awards

This award recognized each top company in four groups who had the highest percent increase in their employee and leadership giving, volunteer engagement, and involvement over the previous year.

Large Company (1,000+ employees): Lorillard, Inc.

Mid Size Company (101-999 employees): Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

Small Company (Up to 100 employees): Southeast Fuels, Inc.

Non Profit Organization: Communities in Schools 

Achievement Awards

Presented to companies with increased participation and giving per capita.

Platinum Level (100% participation and $400 + per capita)

2H Drafting, Inc.

Leeper, Kean & Rumley, LLP

Southeast Fuels, Inc.

Gold Level (75%+ participation and $250 + per capita)

Bank of North Carolina

The Business Journal

Carruthers & Roth, P.A.

Craft Insurance Center, Inc.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Hagan, Davis, Mangum, Barrett and Langley, PLLC

Kayser-Roth Corporation

Lorillard, Inc.

Premier Commercial Bank

Piedmont Natural Gas

PwC

Silver Level (50%+ participation and $175+ per capita)

Brown Investment Properties, Inc.

Dick Broadcasting Company, Inc.

Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

Johnson, Peddrick, & McDonald, PLLC

M.G. Newell Corporation

NewBridge Bank

Smith Moore Leatherwood, LLP

Bronze Level (40%+ participation and $100+ per capita)

Berico Fuels, Inc.

BGF Industries, Inc.

Duke Energy Corporation

First Citizens Bank & Trust

Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro

Lincoln Financial Group

Morrisette Paper Company

Penn National Insurance

Senn Dunn

United Guaranty Corporation

VF Corporation

Leadership Award

Recognizes the campaign with the highest level of participation at the leadership giving level.

Award winner: Cone Health

Community Impact Award          

Recognizes the workplace campaign with gifts given directly to the LIVE UNITED GIVE UNITED campaign which is the most powerful way to invest locally. These companies had an average per capita gift of $1,443; 58% participation, and 99.77% undesignated dollars.

Duke Energy Corporation

Higgins, Benjamin, Eagles & Adams, PLLC

Lincoln Financial Group

Piedmont Natural Gas

Come Back Kid Campaign

The Come Back Kid Campaign award recognizes the workplace campaign with the most significant revitalization of their campaign.

Award winner: Cone Health

Top 10 Companies

CEO Leadership Award                                                 

This year United Way of greater Greensboro recognized a CEO who is visible and vocal in his/her involvement and support of United Way. 

Award winner: Murray Kessler – Chairman, President and CEO, Lorillard, Inc.

Outstanding Team Award

Recognizes the team that demonstrates extraordinary leadership, initiative and management of campaign with a high level of organization and creativity.

Large Company (1,000+ employees): Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.

Mid Size Company (101-999 employees): Novartis Animal Health

Small Company (Up to 100 employees): McGladrey

Non Profit Organization: Greensboro Housing Authority 

“Reaching out a hand to influence the condition of ALL” Award

Recognizes companies that create unique opportunities to increase awareness and meet the critical needs in the community.

Bank of America

Beacon Technologies, Inc.

Cone Health

Evonik Stockhausen

News & Record

Scott Insurance

United Guaranty Corporation

Volvo Group of Companies

Employee Campaign Managers Award

Recognizes Campaign Managers who have shown exceptional leadership and commitment to their workplace campaign. 

Award Winners:

Ruth Edwards – The ARC of Greensboro

Ford Bowers – BB&T

John Buford & Kathryn Whitaker – Brooks, Pierce, McLendon, Humphrey & Leonard LLP

Karin Henderson – Cone Health

Chandra White & Tracey Parker – Deluxe Financial Services Customer Center

Kara-Lyn Little & Jim Wooten – Evonik Stockhausen      

Natasha Howell – Guilford Child Development

Linda Fitts – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro

Jeff Busch & Kristine Williams – Kay Ecolab

Leslie Welch – Lorillard, Inc.

Brent Holmes – Procter & Gamble

Linda Jackson & Team – Smith Moore Leatherwood, LLP           

 “I  Would do Anything for United Way” Award

This award recognizes companies that use creative incentives to get staff involved.

Cone Health

Lincoln Financial Group

Engagement Group “Stand-Outs”

This award recognizes individuals for their service to a United Way of Greater Greensboro Engagement group with enthusiasm and dedication.

African American Leadership: Deno Adkins and Regina Howard-Glaspie

Women’s Leadership: Samantha Lyons-Kittrell

Young Leaders: Cindy Edwards

Agencies & Standouts                                                  

This year United Way member agencies participated in over 200 company rallies, tours and fairs.

Outstanding United Way Member Agency Speaker of the Year Awards:

Judy West – Adult Center for Enrichment

Jimmi Williams – Communities In Schools

Sabrina Cooke-Davis – Family Life Council

Johnny Vineyard – Family Service of the Piedmont

Linda Fitts – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro

Jenny Gore – Reading Connections

Marcy Ray – Reading Connections

Outstanding United Way Member Agency Speaker Coordinators of the Year:

 Frances Deblois and Diane Spurgeon  – Family Service of the Piedmont

Tammy Chaput – Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro

Marcy Ray – Reading Connections

United Way of Greater Greensboro Volunteers of Year

Individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to United Way and has continually gone above and beyond in order to support United Way’s mission.

Tina Akers-Brown

Lucy Kluttz

Cleon Reece

Aaron Strasser

Laurie Weaver

Keith Barsuhn, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro stated, “The contributions from companies and individuals are extraordinary, greatly appreciated and so very critical at this time.  These dollars represent the largest collective source of private sector funds in Greensboro allocated each year to health and human service needs.  More lives will be positively changed as a result of this collective impact.” United Way of Greater Greensboro Board of Directors approves funding decisions in May and its fiscal year ends June 30.

United Way funds programs and initiatives that address critical community needs. United Way is committed to Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone’s Health.

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1. Enhancing NC 2-1-1’s state-wide coverage in order to create a system that allows people to efficiently find the services they need
2. Preserving and extending the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) as a way to reduce poverty while encouraging self-sufficiency
3. Raising the age for juveniles to be charged with crimes in the adult criminal justice system to 18, so that court-involved minors can receive developmentally appropriate, research-based services and treatments that prepare them for a successful life

As an advocate, you know that it’s important to speak up about issues that matter most to you and your community. The Youth & Family Advocacy Day will include training on these key issues, special guest speakers, and an opportunity to meet with your legislators. Here is the schedule at a glance:

9:30 a.m. Registration
10:00 a.m. Issue Briefing at the Museum of History
11:00 a.m. Rally Event in front of the Museum
Legislative Visits
Gallery Recognition — House/Senate

Will you will be able to join us? Click here to RSVP to United Way of North Carolina.

For more information, contact Anna Hoy at 336-378-6614 or anna.hoy@unitedwaygso.org

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WHAT: United Way of Greater Greensboro will hold its Annual Breakfast for Champions Campaign Celebration to recognize and thank volunteers. United Way will recognize the outstanding commitment, participation, volunteer engagement, and successful leadership of organizations and individuals that made a difference in their community in 2010-2011. Presenting awards will be Philip Jones, WFMY News 2 and Gretchen O’Shay, Vice President, Donor Relations, United Way of Greater Greensboro. Breakfast will be served.

WHY:  “The contributions from companies and individuals are extraordinary, greatly appreciated and so very critical at this time.  These dollars represent the largest collective source of private sector funds in Greensboro allocated each year to health and human service needs.  More lives will be positively changed as a result of this collective impact.” –Keith Barsuhn, President and CEO, United Way of Greater Greensboro

CONTACT:  Lauren Davis Gordon @ 336-509-3668

WHO: United Way of Greater Greensboro

WHERE: Greensboro Coliseum’s Terrace Banquet Room

WHEN: Thursday, April 26^th, 7:30am – 9:00am

Press Release with award recipients will be sent out on Friday AM after the celebration.

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GREENSBORO, NC – On Saturday, April 14^th, Fifteen United Way Young Leaders spent their morning volunteering at Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro. Sally Cobb, Horticultural Therapist at Hospice, directed each of the volunteers throughout the morning. Sally began the day by leading the volunteers on tour of the Hospice campus, showing them the lush gardens that residents and their families use for therapeutic purposes at Beacon Place.

When the tour concluded, ten United Way Young Leader volunteers created a beautiful path for residents to safely enter the newly remodeled prayer garden.  “I’ve wanted to volunteer for awhile now.  When I saw that United Way Young Leaders had a gardening project, which was an opportunity to be outdoors and to help others, I was even more excited,” explained United Way volunteer, Lindsay Garland.  “I don’t believe they could maintain the gardens without community support; it is too big of a job for one person.”

Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro is a non-profit organization aimed to ease the hardship of caring for loved-ones facing a life-limiting illness. A patient is eligible for hospice care when they have been given six-months or less to live by a physician and curative treatment is no longer an option. In conjunction with Hospice, Kids Path is a specialized program for children living with serious, progressive medical conditions.  In addition, Kids Path provides support for children and youth experiencing the grief associated with the illness or death of a loved one. Kids Path was founded by Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro. The United Way of Greater Greensboro is proud to help fund certain programs through Hospice and Kids Path because it will lead to an increase access to healthcare, support, and prevention education services for individuals with, or at risk of, specialized health needs.

The physical, emotional and spiritual demands of caring for a person in declining health can be daunting. Hospice care provides support as well as comfort and dignity for patients and their caregivers and families in order to ease those demands and cope with the impending death. Please help provide the support they need even just for a day in the beautiful garden at the Hospice & Palliative Care of Greensboro.

For more information about how to get involved in Young Leaders please contact Julia Cox, Leadership and Giving Manager, at Julia.Cox@unitedwaygso.org or (336) 378-6605.

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The Week of the Young Child™ is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the world’s largest early childhood education association, with nearly 80,000 members and a network of over 300 local, state, and regional Affiliates.

The purpose of the Week of the Young Child™ is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs.

NAEYC first established the Week of the Young Child™ in 1971, recognizing that the early childhood years (birth through age 8 ) lay the foundation for children’s success in school and later life. The Week of the Young Child™ is a time to plan how we—as citizens of a community, of a state, and of a nation—will better meet the needs of all young children and their families.

United Way of Greater Greensboro is happy to celebrate this week with thousands of advocates for early childhood development throughout the United States. In Greensboro, United Way has affirmed our community’s priority of investing early to create better opportunities later in life. Thriving at 3 is United Way of Greater Greensboro’s early childhood development initiative which provides direct services to families and convenes the community to promote information sharing and collaboration.

Thriving at 3 will celebrate the Week of The Young Child by hosting a community Lunch-N-Learn on April 25th. Marian F. Earls, MD, FAAP, Pediatrics Medical Director at Triad Adult & Pediatrics Medicine, and Lead author on American Acadmeny of Pediatrics (AAP) Statement on Screening for Post Partum Depression in primary care, and Co Chair, NC IOM Task Force on Early Childhood Mental Health will be the guest speaker for this event. The discussion will be on postpartum depression, toxic stress, and the impact on the infant’s early brain development. Strategies for promotion, prevention, and intervention in the primary care medical home will be described, as well as for community response and resources including activities and special points of interest.

Registration is on a first come first serve basis and will be closed Friday April 20, 2012. For more information, contact Traci McLemore at 336-378-5040 or traci.mclemore@unitedwaygso.org. 

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Be prepared to go all hands-in at this year’s “Great American Clean-up”. The City of Greensboro will come together to make our local community cleaner, greener, safer and more livable! Keep America Beautiful, the nation’s largest volunteer-based community action and education organization, creates the power of local change through volunteers.

Communities are cleaned, improved and beautified everywhere, from parks and recreation areas to seashores and waterways. Activities range from handling recycling collections, planting trees and flowers and holding educational events to promote living Green. Through the “Great American Clean-up”, citizens in Greensboro will be working to improve our local community’s environment.

Communities are cleaned, improved and beautified everywhere, from parks and recreation areas to seashores and waterways. Activities range from handling recycling collections, planting trees and flowers and holding educational events to promote living Green. Through the “Great American Clean-up”, citizens in Greensboro will be working to improve our local community’s environment. The Young Leaders engagement group will be participating by cleaning up the United Way neighborhood! Young professionals and their families will come together, meeting at the United Way main office (1500 Yanceyville Street) on Saturday, April 21 from 9:00-11:00, followed by a pizza party at Greensboro Beautiful, located at 501 Yanceyville Street  Greensboro, NC 27405 .

For more information about the Great American Clean-Up, please visit http://www.greensborobeautiful.org/cleanups/great_american_cleanup.php

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Greensboro, NC – United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership seeks to foster mentoring relationships with teenage mothers through the Teen Parenting Program administered by Family Services of the Piedmont.  By meeting with the young ladies over afternoon ‘Tea’,  Volunteers from the Women’s Leadership group were able to initiate conversation with Teens.  The participating members of Women’s Leadership and Teens will later connect to continue this relationship in a mentoring capacity.  The pairing of Teens and supportive mentors is based on mutual interests, career aspirations and similar personalities.

This event took place on Saturday April 14^th in the boardroom of the Children’s Home Society from 3:00pm to 4:00pm.  Women’s Leadership members provided tea sets and light hors d’oeuvres.  A brief etiquette lesson will also be shared. The mission of Women’s Leadership is: To mobilize women to become powerful philanthropists through their time, talent and treasure; improving the lives of children and families.

Women’s Leadership empowers a community of women to become philanthropic leaders. Approximately 450 diverse women contribute $1,000 or more annually to United Way to improve the lives of children and families. Together they create opportunities to cultivate leadership skills while networking and volunteering throughout Greensboro.

For more information about the United Way Women’s Leadership, contact Tamera Ziglar, Leadership and Giving Manager, at Tamera.Ziglar@unitedwaygso.org.

United Way funds programs and initiatives that address critical community needs. United way is committed to Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone’s Health.

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There are many attributes that make you look up to someone; bravery, honesty, perseverance, integrity, and strength, but a true hero is one that has all of those attributes. Heroes can be a coach that helped you reach your goal or a parent who has always been there for you. For me, my hero, or rather, my “She-r0e” is my grandma.

I picked my grandma as my “She-roe” because to so many people she was just that. She was such a wonderful grandma. She was always taking me on new adventures; whether it was taking me to Disney World or going on an imaginary stroll through the candy store. I never knew what to expect when I was with her, but I always knew I would have a great time just because she was there. There was never a time that she didn’t make me smile or laugh. Even all my friends loved her and she loved all of them. They all thought of my grandma as a second grandma to them; always welcoming everyone with her charming personality. Everything was just perfect until she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

At first no one would tell me what was wrong other then she was just sick because of my age. But I always knew it was more than that. She had to go into the hospital multiple times but came out within a few weeks. But as the “sickness” got worse she went into the hospital for longer periods of time and I was told that it was actually ovarian cancer. I couldn’t bear to hear those words, and neither could my grandma. But do you think she let that slow her down? No. She stayed stronger than ever, much stronger than me. She battled cancer for 5 years. But she never showed a trace of doubt. She made sure she did everything she could to beat cancer and still had fun at the same time. She went on cruises, climbed waterfalls and went to beautiful islands with my grandpa; who was her biggest supporter. It wasn’t until my birthday that she got really bad. She went into the hospital after my party and stayed there for many months. She slowly got worse and everyone was beginning to lose faith. But not her. Not my grandma. She’s too strong. She made the nurses give her all her medicine at the right time. The tests that the doctors held showed no sign of improvement. That’s when she took a turn for the worse. She was told she may only have a few days to live. My grandma took this as her chance to live the rest of her life to the fullest. She made a ton of jokes and never stopped smiling. I didn’t know she had a few days left until my guidance counselor took me out of class to tell me my dad was here. He told me he wanted me to go to the hospital with him. I knew right then she didn’t have much time.

When we got to the hospital all the nurses and doctors looked at me with the saddest eyes I have ever seen. I walked into the room and saw my grandma smiling, of course. I stayed and talked to her for a little while. My mom took me out into the hallway and told me they were going to make her fall asleep. After she fell asleep they would turn off the machines that helped almost all of her breathing. When I went back into the room I was only allowed to stay a few more minutes. But I couldn’t even stay that long without crying. My grandma knew once I left it would be the last time she saw me and this would be the last time I ever saw her too. I kissed her on the cheek and whispered “I love you”. She whispered “I love you too”. I hugged her and walked into the hallway and cried. The next day, I was at home playing outside when my dad took me into my room and told me she had not made it. It took me a few moments to comprehend what my dad just told me and then I cried all night long.

I try not to be sad when I think about my grandma. I prefer to reminisce about all the wonderful times we had. I like to live my life how she lived hers: confident and fearless. She will always be my she-roe.

Who is your she-roe? Share your your story about who has made a personal difference in your life.

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Image from fineartamerica.com

I once heard a famous orator say, “If a successful person tells you that they got to where they are all by themselves, then they were either delusional or weren’t as smart as they believed themselves to be.” It took a few minutes for me to digest his message and only one minute to decide that I agreed.

I am a product of a village.  A village that included Ms. Kidd, my first grade teacher, who told me on more than one occasion that I was special, that I was gifted and that I had something  to offer this world.  A village that included Mr. Harris, my swim team coach, that told me that “practice equates to perfection”.  A village that included a married couple, that neither knew my name or of my existence on this earth.  Mr. and Mrs.  Le Flore owned the neighborhood candy store, it was there, that I could see them working together each day, their love for each other and that their family unit was strong.  They were an example of what I wished for  myself one day.

All of these people made an undeniable impression in my life.  They are just a few of the MANY mentors  I have had over the years.  Examples of people who cared, cultivated and catapulted my chance for success.  They made a difference in my life.

Will I do the same for someone else?  Will you?  The choice is ours—–become a mentor for a youth in our community.  You just might learn something too!

This post was written by Frank McCain, Vice President of Community Investment for United Way of Greater Greensboro. Frank oversees the division responsible for investing in community programs, including those that “Grow Successful Kids”. United Way is committed to mobilizing mentors to improve the future for disadvantaged youth. For more information on how you can get involved as a mentor, visit unitedwaygso.org/mentor. 

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We look forward to seeing you there!

Parking Information:

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Join our LIVE UNITED team this year at the 2012 Human Race!

The Human Race is a 5K charity walk and run that allows participants to raise money for their favorite non-profit (agency, church, school PTA, etc.).

Date: Saturday, March 31, 2012
Location: The Greensboro Coliseum Complex, Greensboro, NC
Site Map (click to download; this map outlines important areas like handicap parking,
walker line-up, runner check-in, etc.)

Signing up for our team is free…that’s right…FREE! Click here to register. 

Come out and join us for the Human Race in Rain or Shine! If there is rain on Saturday, we will still host the Human Race After Party inside of the Greensboro Coliseum Pavilion starting at 10am. We will only cancel the run in the case of severe weather. Please see the “Race Day” page for more information.

Race Day Schedule
- 9:00 am – Gates Open
- 9:00 – 9:50 am – Submit Donations, Walkers Line Up, RunnerRegistration/Check-in
- 9:50 am – Opening Ceremony
- 10:00 am – Race Start
- 10:30 – 11:45 am – After Party with food, fun, and live music
- 11:45 am – Awards Ceremony
- 12:00 noon – End of 2012 Human Race

Route
5K Route (click to download)
Short Route (click to download)

Each participating nonprofit manages their agency’s fundraising campaign. Our community partner The Volunteer Center of Greensboro plans and manages the overall Human Race fundraising campaign and event. The Volunteer Center has planned the Triad’s Human Race for the past 18 years.

What is special about The Human Race?

- You can support any nonprofit! Where else can you walk or run with more than 100 nonprofits and their supporters?
- FREE FOOD! LIVE MUSIC! PRIZES! FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!
- Participation is easy!
- Friendly, leashed dogs are welcome. Owners must clean-up after their pets.

There will be prizes for the top 10 individual fundraisers and top three male and female runners. The first 1,200 individuals who raise $50 or more will receive one free Human Race shirt. See a full list of prizes at www. volunteergso.org.

Have more questions? Contact our Human Race Coordinator, Julia Cox, at 336-378-6600 for answers!

See you at the start line!

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United Way Young Leaders are coordinating a 2012 “Pirate” team theme for the Human Race to raise money for United Way of Greater Greensboro.  The Human Race is an annual fundraiser that provides critical funding for numerous non profit organizations. Many agency programs depend on this event for a majority of their funding.

Last year, United Way Young Leaders raised over $3,000, which surpassed their goal of $2,000.  This year they have set a goal to raise over $4,000 that will go to United Way programs and services.  To view a complete list of United Way programs and services that are creating a real impact in the Greensboro community, visit www.unitedwaygso.org/ourfocus.

The race will begin at the Greensboro Coliseum on March 31^st at 10:00 am. Registration begins at 9:00 am.  All those interested in joining the United Way team are encouraged to sign up on the United Way of Greater Greensboro website. The team will be both a walking and a running team. Other volunteer opportunities are available with race day logistics or to cheer on the team.

Sign up to volunteer at unitedwaygso.org. For questions about this event or about United Way Young Leaders, please contact Julia Cox at Julia.cox@unitedwaygso.org.

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Left to right: Lorillard’s 2011 United Way Chair Leslie Welch (left to right) and Lorillard’s Chairman, President, and CEO Murray Kessler present a $1,000,000 check to United Way’s Keith Barsuhn and Gretchen O’Shay. Other Lorillard United Way committee members present are Tom Dyer, Ivey Wolfe, Tracie Chrismon, Tina Swain, Vicki Bray, Rachel Rigney, Wayman Jacobs, Rick Hodson, Wayne Welch, Monte Lawrence, Jack Reilly, Kim Bode, Liz Crouse, Jennifer Salmon, and Tana Austin.

(GREENSBORO, NC)  United Way of Greater Greensboro starts this year with an exciting donation.  Lorillard, Inc. announced their total employee and corporate giving to United Way of Greater Greensboro.  Lorillard raised one million dollars in employee and corporate contributions, becoming the first United Way of Greater Greensboro campaign to achieve this milestone.

The campaign theme was “Take a Stand, Lend a Hand”.  Beginning in February, the planning committee held monthly meetings to organize company events and fundraising activities. Employees visited multiple United Way of Greater Greensboro partner agencies with “lending a hand” in mind.   During the campaign, members participated in a drum circle with children at Black Child Development Institute of Greensboro.  In late April, Lorillard celebrated with Bell House residence after the 2011 Human Race.

Many of Lorillard employees serve as active volunteers within United Way of Greater Greensboro, including Lorillard Chairman, President and CEO, Murray Kessler, who serves as a member of the Board of Directors.

“We’re extremely grateful for the generous contributions from Lorillard, which will have an enormous impact in our community,” said Keith Barsuhn, president of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “When companies and their employees are able to step forward to make such significant investments, it allows us to create lasting changes in the quality of life for all of us in our community.”

Of the $1 million plus, nearly $600,000 was raised by employee contributions alone.  A portion of the corporate gift was given for the purpose of United Way’s Mentoring Initiative, reinforcing the philanthropic interests of their employees.  Lorillard has also devoted resources of time and talent to help United Way create an awareness campaign about mentoring. While still in the planning stages, this initiative will continue to mobilize additional mentors and strengthen the network of mentoring programs in Greensboro.

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Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. About 38 percent of the U.S. population is eligible to give blood, but only 8 percent of those eligible actually donate. American Red Cross Carolinas Blood Services Region must collect at least 1,600 units of blood and platelets each weekday to meet the needs of patients in approximately 103 hospitals and healthcare facilities throughout the region.

You don’t need a special reason to give blood. You just need your own reason. Some of us give blood because we were asked by a friend. Some know that a family member or a friend might need blood some day. Some believe it is the right thing we do.

Whatever your reason, the need is constant and your contribution is important for a healthy and reliable blood supply. And you’ll feel good knowing you’ve helped change a life.

Please join the Young Leaders and the American Red Cross to help save lives!

When: All during February plus 3 YL specific donor days!
Feb. 28, March 1st and March 3rd****
**There will be a tailgate canteen on March 3rd from 10:00 AM-1:00 PM at Red Cross for Young Leaders

Where: The American Red Cross
1501 Yanceyville Street
Greensboro, NC 27415

Call and make your appointment today : 332-6945 -Make sure you let them know you are with Young Leaders.

Tips for a Successful Donation
• Maintain a healthy iron level in your diet
• Hydrate – drink an extra 16 oz of liquid before and after your donation
• Have a healthy meal before your donation – avoid foods high in fat just prior to donation
• Remember to bring your ID!

This post was written by Amy Hagar, Campaign Associate and Young Leader at United Way of Greater Greensboro. 

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When there is an emergency, we know to call 9-1-1 for help. Who do we call when we need community health and human service resources? The answer is United Way’s 2-1-1 service.

According to NC211.org, there are 30,000 nonprofits in North Carolina. It can be dif­ficult to identify all of the resources that are available in a quick, one-step process. 2-1-1 makes this easy by connecting you to the services that you need. If you want to con­tact a food bank, would like to learn about child care, are in need of counseling, or are seeking other services, 2-1-1 is the number to call. It is free, multilingual, and is avail­able 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

“2-1-1 is a resource anyone can utilize and it is confidential,” said Julia Cox, lead­ership giving manager of the United Way of Greater Greensboro. “People in our com­munity need help more than ever and ev­eryone’s circumstance is different. 2-1-1 will work with callers regardless of the health or human service needed. It is a hand up, not a handout.”

If you are interested in volunteering or making a donation, 2-1-1 can connect you to these opportunities. 2-1-1 also offers communities data about needs in the area, which is critical when developing strate­gies to meet those demands. So, pick up the phone and dial 2-1-1 to learn what resources and opportunities are available.

2-1-1 offers many services where you can find:

• Free legal advice
• Basic services in our area
• A calendar of health events
• Diapers, formula or clothes for new or expecting mothers
• Information about immigration services
• Donated medical supplies
• Information about drug rehabilitation programs
• Educational resources and a job placement center
• HIV testing in the area
• Support to stop smoking
• Affordable housing

This post was written by Crystal Edwards Oldham for The Greensboro Voice. Crystal teaches Introduction to Communication Studies at UNCG and will complete her graduate program in May. She dedicates her free time to leading community projects and volunteering. She values meeting new people, hearing their stories and expanding her worldview. 

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The Spirit of North Carolina Awards for Campaign Excellence is sponsored annually by the United Way of North Carolina.  The Spirit awards provide statewide recognition for outstanding commitment and support to communities through local United Way involvement.

The Spirit Awards were developed to recognize companies and their employees that demonstrate campaign excellence and community commitment.  The Spirit Committee judged more than 70 outstanding submissions from top companies, organizations, governmental entities, healthcare and educational institutions, as well as businesses – large and small.  Awards were presented to 32 companies and/or organizations during the United Way of North Carolina’s Annual Meeting on February 3, 2012 in Pinehurst, NC.  The following are companies located in Guilford County that were announced:

• Advanced Health Care was honored as an Outstanding Not-for-Profit Agency Campaign (1001- 2500 employees).   
• Cone Health was honored as an Outstanding Hospital/Health System Campaign (5000+ employees).
• Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP was honored as an Outstanding Business Campaign (101-200 employees).
• Pilot Elementary School was honored as an Outstanding Educational Institution Campaign (51-100 employees).
• High Point Regional Health System was honored as an Outstanding Hospital/Health System Campaign (1001-2500 employees).
• High Point University was honored as Outstanding Educational Institution Campaign (501-1000 employees).
• Lorillard Tobacco Company was honored as an Outstanding Business Campaign (1001-2500 employees).
• VF Corporation was honored as an Outstanding Manufacturing Campaign (1001-2500 employees).

Organizations and companies are judged on a variety of criteria outlined in the Spirit of North Carolina Standards of Excellence including leadership giving, volunteerism, employee participation and giving levels, year-round education, corporate support, incentive programs, and campaign rallies just to name a few.

XXXX

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Keith Barsuhn, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro

By now you may have heard about National Thank Your Mentor Day on January 26th. You might even be thinking about a person in your life that made such a “game changing” impression on you that became a cornerstone to your success.

For me it was a former manager, who 27 years ago became my boss at United Way in Tri-State (New York).  For three years, Frank Karr directed me, at times, as a supervisor; but almost on a daily basis he coached and mentored me in my early years as a United Way professional.  His insight and guidance was the difference between me enjoying a career at United Way, 28 years and counting, or jumping around to other non-profits.  Lunch hours sometimes turned into near half day conversations on how to work with CEO level volunteers, fundraise within large politically complex companies, and learn about community needs and resources. Those conversations would prepare me to lead a United Way in New York, which I soon did after working for him.  I also am reminded about my new experience as a 26 year old executive director of a United Way, sometimes feeling unprepared to take on that high level of responsibility.  Thanks to Frank’s willingness to spend as much time as I needed to be coached through the most challenging situations, our United Way thrived.

Frank, THANK YOU for instilling in me the confidence to lead and succeed!

This post was written by Keith Barsuhn, President & CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. January is celebrated as National Mentoring Month, 31 days where we celebrate mentors and recognize the importance of mentors for positive youth development. For us at United Way of Greater Greensboro, this year brings special meaning because of the launch of our African American Male Initiative. As one of the key elements of the initiative, United Way is committed to mobilizing mentors to improve the future for disadvantaged youth. Click here to see more ways that you can get involved in National Mentoring Month in Greensboro. 

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This year, Women in Philanthropy is excited to announce Karen Walrond, writer and photographer, as the keynote speaker. Please join us for a lunch you will not want to miss!

When: May 22 from 11:30 am- 1:30pm
Where: Greensboro Marriott Downtown 

Tickets are $35 (including lunch entrée) and are available to purchase online.

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Greensboro, NC – On February 3^rd, 2012, the United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Young Leaders will host the first-ever Casino Royale fundraiser for programs & initiatives supported by the United Way of Greater Greensboro.  The event will take place at Kress Terrace (212 South Elm Street, Greensboro, NC, 27401) – doors will open at 7:30 PM, with tables opening at 8:00 PM

The first event of its kind hosted by the Young Leaders, Casino Royale encourages Greensboro residents ages 21 and over to get dressed up in their finest cocktail attire and put on their game faces to raise money for their favorite programs – casino style.  Entry to the event is $20.00 and allows each guest $2,000 in playing chips, 2 drink tickets and food (catered by the Iron Hen). At the end of the night, chips will be exchanged for raffle tickets, with some big prizes up for grabs! And if the games aren’t for you, be sure to come ready to dance and mingle with Greensboro’s finest young professionals and United Way supporters!

To learn more and purchase tickets to the Casino Royal Fundraiser, visit the United Way’s website at http://www.unitedwaygso.org/blog/2011/12/casino-royale-february-3/. Hurry and buy your tickets as soon as possible – prices will go up soon!

The Young Leaders program at the United Way is designed for young professionals in the Greensboro community under 40 who are passionate about giving back to their communities.  Young Leaders advocate for issues like education, income stability, and health, and give back to the community through volunteer service and financial support.

For more information about the United Way Young Leaders, contact Julia Cox Leadership Giving Manager at Julia.cox@unitedwaygso.org.

United Way funds programs and initiatives that address critical community needs. United way is committed to Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone’s Health.

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The tables grand opening will be at eight.
Giving back to the community is always a great trait.
This is “dress to impress” no jeans allowed.
So wear your best suit and hold your head proud.

Twenty dollars will get you in the door.
If you don’t feel like gambling, get your booty on the dance floor!
If you don’t know the song, please feel free to lip sync,
Each ticket includes food, casino chips and a drink.

Dancing and Gambling are so much fun
Oh, wait – the night has just begun!
Everyone is eligible for some super fancy prizes.
They will come in all different shapes and sizes.

Please come out and have a blast,
It’s not only for the young – in case you asked.
United Way of Greater Greensboro is in great need,
This annual event will help us succeed!

To find out more information about this event, please click here.
To purchase tickets, please click here.

Poem Written by Amy Hagar (pictured), Campaign Associate at United Way of Grater Greensboro and Young Leader.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Leadership group represents African Americans who are leadership givers that invest their time and resources to strengthen the impact of United Way of Greater Greensboro and its community partnerships.

African American Leadership is excited to announce the Inaugural African American Leadership Speaker Series featuring Dr. Benjamin Carson, neurosurgeon and author, as the keynote speaker.

REGISTRATION HAS CLOSED FOR THIS EVENT. Stay up to date with more events like this by signing up for monthly e-newsletter here.

When

Friday, March 16, 2012 from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM EDT
Add to my calendar

8:30 – 9:00 am
Registration

9:00 – 11:00 am

Healthcare Symposium: Improving Health Outcomes in Our Community

Panelists Include:

• Laura Gerald, MD, State Health Director, NC Division of Public Health
• Tim Rice, MHA, FACHE, President & CEO, Cone Health
• William Hickling, MD, Cone Health Child Neurology
• Claudette Johnson, RN, President, Partnership for Health Management
• Laura Edwards, RN, MRA, Director, Healthy NC 2020
• Nannette Funderburk, PhD, LPC, NCC, The SEL Group
• Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D, Director, Division of Pediatric Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital

Moderated by:
Cynthia Marshall, President, AT&T of North Carolina

11:30 am – 1:30 pm

Keynote Address Lunch: Benjamin Carson, MD
Think Big—Launching the African American Male Initiative

Distinguished Service Lifetime Achievement Award
Presented to Dr. Alvin Blount,
Physician and Community Leader

1:30 – 3:00 pm

Private Reception
This is your opportunity to meet Dr. Carson in person. You won’t want to miss this unique opportunity.

About Dr. Benjamin Carson

Dr. Carson had a childhood dream of becoming a physician.  He grew up in a single parent home and was challenged by dire poverty, poor grades, a horrible temper, and low self-esteem. Although his mother held only a third-grade education, she challenged her sons to strive for excellence. Young Ben persevered, and today is a full professor of neurosurgery, oncology, plastic surgery, and pediatrics at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, where he has directed pediatric neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Children’s Center for over a quarter of a century.  He became the inaugural recipient of a professorship dedicated in his name in May, 2008 and is now the Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D. and Dr. Evelyn Spiro, R.N. Professor of Pediatric Neurosurgery. Read more…

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This month we’re proud to be participating in National Mentoring Month, 31 days where we celebrate mentors and recognize the importance of mentors for positive youth development. For us at United Way of Greater Greensboro, this year brings special meaning because of the launch of our African American Male Initiative. As one of the key elements of the initiative, United Way is committed to mobilizing mentors to improve the future for disadvantaged youth.

Here are a few ways that we are recommending for you to take action during National Mentoring Month:

• Change your profile picture on Facebook and Twitter to the I AM A MENTOR or the INVEST IN THE FUTURE badges (above). By doing something simple like changing your profile picture, your helping us spread the word and increase the awareness of people in your network. You may even inspire someone else to do the same!

Right Click on the Picture to Save & Upload as Your Profile Picture

Right Click on the Picture to Save & Upload as Your Profile Picture

• Get Started! Become a mentor. Make the commitment to help a child find his spark. Click here to make it happen.

• Thank Your Mentor. January 26th is National Thank Your Mentor Day. As a mentor, sometimes we never really know how we have changed our mentee’s life. Take a moment and thank your mentor for the difference (s)he has made. We welcome you to post your story on our Facebook Wall. Whether you do it publically or privately, your personal message makes us all remember what it is about mentoring that makes it all worth the effort.

• Raise Money to Raise Hope! Behind many great mentors are great mentoring programs, which take resources to operate. We take advantage things like background checks, professional staff who can guide mentors through difficult situations, program evaluation, and recruitment efforts. All of these things require funding to make high quality mentoring programs happen. Hold a fundraiser with your friends to raise hope for thousands of kids in our community. Remember, all of the dollars that you donate to United Way stay in your community.

On behalf of everyone here at United Way of Greater Greensboro, we thank you for giving, advocating, and volunteering to improve the quality of life for young people!

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Take a minute to peek behind the scenes of United Way and get introduced to one of the staff members that puts your dollars to work!

When did you start working at United Way?

Sarah: I started here in July 2009. Before that I worked briefly as a freelance consultant doing research, writing, and group facilitation. I also worked for ten years at the Center for Creative Leadership where I did research on global leadership and innovation.

Why did you decided to go into the field of self-sufficiency and financial stability work?

Sarah: I’ve always been drawn to work that empowers people in someway. I know too many people (including myself at times) who either live paycheck to paycheck or don’t have a paycheck.

Why is the financial stability and self-sufficiency work that United Way and our partners do critical for Greensboro to thrive?

Sarah: Before you can be concerned with your own empowerment and psychological development, you need things like safety, shelter, and food. To continually meet those basic needs for yourself and your family, you need some financial stability. Stability gives you the peace of mind to be able to turn your thinking to bigger things like improving yourself or increasing opportunities for your family. When individuals and families aren’t safe, financially stable, and self-sufficient, it erodes not only their own health and well-being, but the community’s as well. Think about the stress of the people who need help, but also the stress on the helpers, especially in times where there is unprecedented demand and limited support. The effects of financial stability on people can be seen beyond food pantry shelves; it affects things like crime, domestic violence, and access to healthcare and elder care. By helping people get or keep housing, employment, basic health, child or elder care, and transportation, we save taxpayers money from needing to use public benefits and also add revenue from continued economic activity.  When I talk to people, I often hear things like, “Well we’re not getting any help out of Washington (DC).” We have to do a lot of the work for ourselves. We need people trying to pitch in locally, instead of just waiting for big solutions from on high. I love that my work at United Way has a local impact.

What is it about United Way that you’ve learned since you’ve joined the staff?

Sarah: To be honest, before I started working here I really didn’t know a lot about United Way except for what I learned from campaign rallies at my workplace. I really thought of United Way as “rah-rah” fundraising. What I know now is that there’s much more. Since United Way isn’t the direct service provider to clients, we have the ability to lift our eyes to the horizon and notice things that others may not—patterns, trends, gaps, and the bigger picture of the system.  It’s not the old community chest; we’re not raising money for agencies because they can’t do it for themselves–they can. We are making programs and the community stronger. We do more than write checks. We support programs with technical assistance, measure and evaluate community conditions, and bring people together to form community collaborations.

What I love about United Way is that it values learning, sharing ideas, collaborations, and solving problems. At first I was really surprised how willing other United Ways were to share their successes, ideas, and suggestions. The more I learn about what United Ways across the country are doing, the more I am impressed about being part of a larger system that is really committed to improving our communities. Also, I’m really proud of the dedication, diligence, and authenticity of our volunteers who serve on our committees.

What are everyday ways that people can take action to improve financial stability and self-sufficiency of our community?

Sarah: First of all, slow down and pay attention. Sometimes we’re all just too busy. People are falling apart because they don’t have time to sleep, think clearly, and take care of themselves. You have to find a certain clarity in order to find the best way to help. You may be able to help people when you’re frazzled, but it will probably be a band-aid. You can’t nurture, create changes in habits or systems, or pay attention to each other enough when you’re over-stressed. Slow down enough to pay attention to how your neighbors, family, and friends are doing and what they need. Look for success stories of people overcoming struggles and then notice what helped them to succeed. Notice what’s working well in our community. When you do that, you may feel some small calling to action and you’ll know what to do.

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Get your game on at the first annual Young Leaders Casino Royale event!

Each ticket comes with a drink and casino chips. Try your luck at the tables: craps, roulette, and black jack! The more you win, the more raffle tickets you will earn towards great prizes. Even if the cards aren’t in your favor, we’ll have opportunities for you to win by entering additional raffle tickets that will be available for purchase.

Catering will be provided by Iron Hen Cafe (yum!). Tables open for play at 8pm. Dancefloor is open all night. All proceeds benefit United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Click here to purchase your ticket. UPDATE (2/2/12): Casino Royale is SOLD OUT! See you lucky ticket holders on Friday!

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The United Way of Greater Greensboro supports 70 programs within 29 partner agencies throughout the local community in the areas of Caring for Everyone’s Health, Growing Successful Kids, and Helping People Help Themselves. While all of the member agencies are integral to our city, one in particular, continuously inspires me, that agency is Reading Connections.

Reading Connections is a nonprofit organization that promotes self-sufficiency through literacy and adult basic education. Tutors work with students to develop individual learning plans for GED preparation, English for speakers of other languages, computer literacy, workplace literacy, health literacy, and family literacy. At no cost, the organization provides individuals with the resources to succeed professionally and socially.

When I think of Reading Connections and the difference it makes in Greensboro, I always think of a quote that was posted on the wall in my graduate dorm:

“Everybody can be great…because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” ― Martin Luther King Jr.

I have had the opportunity to hear program recipients of Reading Connections speak on two separate occasions.  Each time, I left feeling humbled and motivated to give back to the community.

In the beginning of the campaign season, I scheduled a rally at Bernard Robinson & Company; the employee campaign manager requested a speaker that could touch the hearts of the employees.  Marcy Ray, the Assistant Director at Reading Connections agreed to the engagement.  She invited, Brandy, a program recipient, to share her experience. Brandy is a remarkable woman with a sweet disposition and an aura of confidence. Although Brandy was nervous, she stood in front of an audience of formally educated career professionals and explained that she dropped out of school at a young age and couldn’t read for several years.  After struggling with financial documents and her career, she decided to go to reading connections and get a tutor.  Not only did Brandy learn how to read, she has taken up creative writing, and she became a leader in a student club.  Despite her past, she said she was not ashamed; instead her experience fuels her to help others who are in her shoes. While she spoke, I observed the audience and I could tell they were moved by her story.

After Brandy spoke, she received a standing ovation.  I know the applause meant a lot to her, but it also meant a lot to me because sharing our stories is essential to living united. Without communication and understanding the life experiences and struggles of others, we cannot take collective action to improve our local community.

Dorian Wanzer

This post was written by Dorian Wanzer, Campaign Associate at United Way of Greater Greensboro. Dorian is a native of Greensboro, NC.  She received a BA  from Elon University and MPA from Rutgers University, in New Jersey. Dorian has had a number of educational and professional experiences working in the nonprofit sector.  As someone who is passionate about volunteerism and community engagement, Dorian is very pleased to be working at the United Way and encouraging others to Live United.

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Tell Congress to restore Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) funding in FY12 to $200 million and to release funds immediately!

Since 1983, billions of federal dollars have been distributed to local communities through the Emergency Food & Shelter Program (EFSP) which helps stabilize families by providing emergency food, shelter and utility/rent assistance during times of crisis. This fiscal year (FY 2011) Congress cut the EFSP by 40% from $200 million to $120 million. During these economic times, demand for these services has only increased.

Now is the time to speak up to restore critical funding in FY 2012 to help families on the path to self sufficiency.  Congress is operating on a continuing resolution through December 16. Please take two minutes to tell Congress to:

• Fund EFSP at $200 million, and
• Have the Department of Homeland Security release the full amount immediately. Releasing the dollars now will allow local communities to plan how to allocate the funds to best meet local needs.

For additional information on EFSP, including information on EFSP funding in our state and community, please go to: www.efsp.unitedway.org

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Financial stability and self sufficiency of individuals and families are the foundation for a good quality of life.  United Way of Greater Greensboro and its partners are leading the way to help people help themselves.

Women’s Resource Center’s Transitional Development Program is one of 26 United Way supported programs and initiatives that address the issue of self sufficiency.

The Transitional Development Program is designed to assist women who are faced with difficult life transitions or crises to develop effective problem-solving skills and to provide them with the information, resources and support they need to move toward self-reliance.

“It is truly a blessing to have a place to go with information and resources to help women.” Said a former program participant, “I will tell any woman who needs help and doesn’t know where to go about this wonderful place.  My heart has been so touched to connect with people who are genuinely concerned about the well being of others.”

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Take a minute to peek behind the scenes of United Way and get introduced to one of the staff members that puts your dollars to work!

How long have you been working at United Way of Greater Greensboro?
Jennifer: I started working at United Way of Greater Greensboro in August of 2010, but have worked for United Way or a United Way partner agency for the past 8 years.

Why are you passionate about the impact area of health?
Jennifer: I see health as one of the factors that holds our entire community and economy together. Health, more so than any other issue, affects your everyday life and your ability to succeed. Healthcare and access to care is a hot button issue. Our healthcare system is broken. Despite spending more on health care than any other country, the United States currently ranks 37th in the world in overall health. In the current system, many people are faced with difficult choices when it comes to meeting their basic health needs . People with a limited income often have to make the choice whether to go to the doctor, or get a prescription filled, or buy food for their family. The cost of healthcare is a huge factor that can tip middle-class people into bankruptcy and poverty. I want to make sure that everyone has opportunities for the same quality care and comprehensive services.

What drew you to this position?
Jennifer: While I’m passionate about health, it wasn’t really what drew me to this position. I’m a believer that everyone should have equal access and opportunities to the building blocks for a quality life: education, financial stability, and health. I was drawn to this position because United Way sees how those three things intertwine. I enjoy that my role is able to bring access to healthcare and improve opportunities for all people to succeed in life.

You’re a big advocate for United Way. Have you had any “Aha!” moments that sparked your passion about United Way?
Jennifer: For me, it’s the Ogre Story. I was at a diversity conference for United Way and I had the pleasure of hearing Dr. Johnnetta Cole speak. It made me take a look at the big picture and I just got it. It made me question if our actions were just putting band-aids on the problem or actually solving what was causing it.

Click here to see Dr. Cole’s rendition of the Ogre Story.

With World AIDS Day coming up on December 1st, what is United Way of Greater Greensboro and it’s partners doing to combat HIV/AIDS in our community?

Jennifer: One of the most important things about combating HIV in our community is making people aware of their own status. Two key United Way partners in making that happen are Piedmont Health Service & Sickle Cell Agency’s Street Community Outreach Prevention Education program and Triad Health Project’s Prevention Services. Both programs offer HIV testing, information about how to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections, and referral services to help those affected by or at higher-risk of contracting HIV/AIDS find the help they need.

What can people in Greensboro do to improve the health of our community?
Jennifer: The biggest way to change the health of our community is to advocate. We need you to advocate for health care reform in our state and nationally. We have to make a moral decision that we care about everybody, and that we will provide health care to those who can’t otherwise afford to. We also need you to advocate by raising awareness about the health problems in our community. One easy way to do that is at local events, like Triad Health Project’s Winter Walk for AIDS on Sunday, December 4th.

If you’re interested in learning more about United Way of Greater Greensboro’s work in Caring for Everyone’s Health, contact Jennifer at jennifer.ruppe@unitedwaygso.org.

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Good health and wellbeing of individuals and families are the foundation for a good quality of life.  United Way of Greater Greensboro and its partners are leading the way to care for everyone’s health.

Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro Kids Path Program is one of 21 United Way supported programs that address the issue of health.

In 2005, Adelaide Smith had her whole world turned upside down.  Her boy friend was killed in a car accident on his way to high school. Adelaide remembers the numbing shock and sorrow she felt. Despite the outpouring of love and support she had from family and friends, she felt so alone.

“I remember walking to my car after that first counseling session at Kids Path,” reflected Adelaide  “I thought to myself – finally … finally I had found a place where I could talk about my feelings and not feel weird – like something was wrong with me.”

Adelaide continued her counseling at Kids Path over the next two years, until she left Greensboro to attend college.  “I attribute the counseling I had at Kids Path for helping me find healthy ways to express my grief.  Now, in my senior year at Appalachian, I am back at Kids Path … interning with their counseling program for a semester.  My goal is to earn my Master’s Degree and to work in a profession that allows me to offer children and teens the same kind of support I found at Kids Path.”

Click here to see more ways that United Way of Greater Greensboro is caring for everyone’s health.

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Holiday Bake & Decorate

Who: Young Leader Volunteers & Bhutanese and Vietnamese Refugees
What: Share holiday traditions, bake cookies and make holiday decorations
When: 11:00 AM – 1:30PM Saturday, Dec. 3rd
How: Click here and check the box next to Holiday Bake & Decorate

Deck the Halls
Who: Young Leader Volunteers & Bell House Residents
What: Host the Bell House holiday party with crafts, karaoke, and cookies.
When: 10:30 AM – 1:00PM Saturday, Dec. 3rd
Where: The Bell House–2500 Summit Ave.
How: Click here and check the box next to Bell House

Paint the Walls (FULL)
Who: Young Leader Volunteers
What: Paint the new teaching kitchen at The Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association
When: 10:30 AM – 1:00PM Saturday, Dec. 3rd

2011 Winter Walk for AIDS
Who: Young Leader Volunteers
What: Walk throughdowntown Greensboro to raise money and awareness for the fight against HIV/AIDS in the Piedmont
When: 2:00 PM Sunday, Dec. 4th
Where: War Memorial Stadium–510 Yanceyville Street
How: Click here to join our team

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Please note that 2011 donation payments may be mailed to 1500 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro, NC 27405 throughout the end of the year.  Check donations postmarked and dated by December 31, 2011 will be honored as 2011 contributions even if they are received by United Way the first week of January 2012.  Credit card payments must be made by 4:00 p.m. December 30, 2011.

Online giving is for new pledges/payments only, not for payment of outstanding balances.

If you are paying off a current pledge by credit card this must be done by phone or in person at the United Way location on Yanceyville St. before 4:00 p.m.

If you wish to make a new pledge and pay that pledge online this must be done prior to 4:00 p.m. in order to process the charge and be eligible for your tax donation.   Online credit cards are NOT processed automatically, so please make sure you post your pledge/payment by 4:00 p.m.

If you have any questions please contact Dawn Taylor at dawn.taylor@unitedwaygso.org or 336-378-6612.

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Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association’s Infant Toddler Program

Good health and well-being of individuals and families are the foundation for a good quality of life.  United Way of Greater Greensboro and its partners are leading the way to care for everyone’s health.

Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association’s Infant Toddler Program is one of 21 United Way supported programs that address the issue of health.

Through participation in this program, children improve their physical and mental skills while parents improve their ability to support their child’s unique needs.  By providing therapy, education, and counseling early on, children are able to make tremendous improvements that allow them to reach their maximum potential.

“I remain in awe that my child and family have the opportunity to be a part of such a phenomenal program.” Says parent, Shantra Gray, “The success of Jackson throughout his life will be contributed to the early intervention he is receiving through the Greensboro Cerebral palsy Association. We will be forever grateful.”

Click here to see more ways that United Way of Greater Greensboro is caring for everyone’s health.

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Financial stability and self sufficiency of individuals and families are the foundation for a good quality of life.  United Way of Greater Greensboro and its partners are leading the way to help people help themselves.

Family Service of the Piedmont’s Consumer Credit Counseling (CCCS) is one of 26 United Way supported programs and initiatives that address the issue of self sufficiency.

CCCS provides free counseling services to clients who are in danger of losing their homes, are facing bankruptcy, and need assistance with managing finances. This past year 2,014 default housing clients found help with a 99.6% success rate in preventing foreclosure.

“Consumer Credit Counseling Service is a vital part of this community in helping assist those with financial burdens,” Says Pete Cross, Family Service of the Piedmont Board Chair. “It offers the tools to create financial stability for the future. This program truly is making a difference.”

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Over 90 Young Leaders volunteered to make the 2nd Annual Trunk or Treat at United Way a big success!

The average 20 something may dread waking up on a Sunday morning, decorating their car, and passing out candy to excited trick or treaters, but not the Young Leaders. United Way’s 2011 Trunk or Treat was an amazing event created by young people for even younger people.  Approximately four hundred children and their families enjoyed games, face-painting, and trick or treating in a safe environment.  Trunk or Treat exemplified United Way’s Young Leaders and volunteers dedication to public service.  Based on the variation of creative trunks and fun activities at the event, it’s evident that United Way’s Young Leaders are dedicated to public service.

Dorian Wanzer (aka Princess Tiana) poses at her tricked out trunk

Lucky for me, my Princess Tiana costume was a pretty big hit—so I was able to greet children and their parents, and observe a wide array of costumes. I even met a little tiny frog…well, the cutest baby dressed as a frog who was the perfect accessory to my costume.  The excited expression on each child’s face as they walked up and said “trick or treat!” was so rewarding.  After I ran out of candy, I circled the parking lot to see the other trunks. No wonder kids love this event, the trunks were equally as entertaining as the face painting and contests. I honestly can say Trunk or Treat has been my favorite United Way event to date.

Trunk or Treat is an example of how the United Way encourages Greensboro to Live United. Trunk or Treat didn’t just bring people together; it supported interaction of diverse families, which is the key to fostering community relationships and inclusion. When community members can see that there are all types of people who benefit from United Way services and events, then they are more likely to advocate and volunteer too.

Trunk or Treat hosted over 700 people on October 30th in the United Way of Greater Greensboro parking lot

For more pictures from this event, visit the Young Leaders’ Facebook page by clicking here. For more information about how you can join Young Leaders click here.

This post was written by Dorian Wanzer, Campaign Associate at United Way of Greater Greensboro. Dorian is a native of Greensboro, NC.  She received a BA  from Elon University and MPA from Rutgers University, in New Jersey. Dorian has had a number of educational and professional experiences working in the nonprofit sector.  As someone who is passionate about volunteerism and community engagement, Dorian is very pleased to be working at the United Way and encouraging others to Live United.

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Hear an Overview of the North Carolina State Budget, Economic Forecast, and Issues Affecting Your Community & Add Your Voice to the Discussion

This year United Way, the NC Budget & Tax Center and the NC Justice Center are teaming up to share the story of the economy and the state budget. But, throughout this interactive session, your community will have the opportunity to respond and help write the next chapter in the story. During Building a Stronger North Carolina, be prepared to answer a few questions and to learn a few facts that you can put into action. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• How have the state budget and the economy impacted your community?
• What budget trends are developing, and how long will it take for NC to recover from the Great Recession?
• Is NC falling behind in areas like Education, Health and Public Safety?
• How can you impact the issues you care most about? Join with others to focus your local advocacy for the greatest outcome.

Tentative Agenda

9:00 to 9:05 Welcome and Overview of the Morning
9:05 to 10:05 Debunking the Myths of the 2011 Legislative Session
10:05 to 10:30 Identifying Key Policy and Advocacy Issues for 2012
10:30 to 10:40 Break
10:40 to 11:30 Presentations and Q&A with Area Legislators

Hosted in the Triad by the United Ways of Forsyth County, Greater Greensboro, and High Point

Date & Time: Wednesday, November 16th from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Place: Girl Scouts’ Carolinas Peaks2Piedmont Triad Service Center (8818 West Market Street, Colfax, NC 27235)

RSVP: online at United Way of NC, or call United Way of Forsyth County at 336-721-9336

FEATURED SPEAKERS:

Jill Cox– Government Relations and Communications Director, UNITED WAY OF NORTH CAROLINA

Alexandra Sirota–Director, NC BUDGET & TAX CENTER

Louisa Warren–Senior Policy Advocate, NC JUSTICE CENTER

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Penn Gruhen, a recent Lunch-N-Learn attendee, said “We’re all working for the same purpose: children. We want Greensboro to have the healthiest children.”

Thriving at 3 is United Way of Greater Greensboro’s early childhood development and school readiness initiative. Thriving at 3’s Lunch-N-Learns are popular professional development and networking events among service providers who work with young children. Each quarter, Thriving at 3 hosts a different presenter on a different topic relating to the development of young children, their families, and our community.

Kelly L. Close, RDH, MHA, Preschool Oral Health Coordinator of North Carolina’s Department of Public Health, discussed the importance of early childhood oral health.

On Wednesday, Thriving at 3 hosted Kelly L. Close, RDH, MHA, Preschool Oral Health Coordinator of North Carolina’s Department of Public Health, to discuss the importance of caring for young children’s teeth and gums. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) tooth decay affects children in the US more than any other chronic infectious disease. Untreated tooth decay causes pain and infections that may lead to other problems with eating, speaking, playing, and learning.

Those who attended this Lunch-N-Learn learned about the oral health status of kids in our state and prevention methods of early childhood tooth decay. They also shared tips and tools for how to implement this information into the work with the families they serve.

“Because we are more informed, we know more of the resources that are out here,”  said Regina Dowd of Greensboro’s Children’s Developmental Services Agency, another attendee at the most recent event. “The more we attend, the more we can share the information with our families.”

For more information about United Way’s Thriving at 3 initiative click here, or contact Traci McLemore, Thriving at 3 Community Investment Specialist.

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Let us know on Facebook if you are coming!!

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UNCG vs. NC A&T Men’s Basketball

Monday, November 28

7:00 PM Tip-Off

$5 of every ticket purchased benefits United Way!

Purchase your $10 tickets before the game one of the following ways:

• Call the UNCG Ticket Office at 336-334-3250
• Download this ticket form and E-Mail to Mike at MAEHMKE@UNCG.EDU
• Download this ticket form and Mail to GREENSBORO COLISEUM BOX OFFICE, 1921 West Lee Street · Greensboro, NC 27403

Pre-Game ticket orders must be received by Friday, November 25th, in order to receive the $10 price. Tickets will be left at Will Call for day of game pick up under your name.  Will Call opens at 6:00pm on November 28^th and an ID is required for ticket pick up.

On Game Day, purchase your $15 tickets by visiting the Coliseum Box Office.

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Mike Mahoney, Young Leader, poses with his spooky friends at Trunk-or-Treat 2010

Cindy Edwards, Young Leader, displays her decorated trunk at Trunk-or-Treat 2010

Looking for something fun to do for Halloween? Join Young Leaders for Trunk or Treat on Sunday, Oct. 30th from 2-4pm in our parking lot! Get ready to put on your best costume, decorate your car, and join our Young Leaders as they throw a party in our parking lot! Kids (of all ages) are welcome to trick-or-treat from trunk to trunk and celebrate the great things going on at United Way. Click here to sign up, donate to this

event, or let us know you’re coming!

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Lou Nunn

Lou Nunn began her career in the banking industry 34 years ago as a part time teller with First Citizen’s Bank.  But she’s not sure if she gave to United Way of Greater Greensboro that year because she started in September and the annual campaign had already started.  But every year since then, Lou has been a donor.  Even at a young age with a “meager” income, Lou knew that there were a lot of people in our community who didn’t have as much and that even a little bit would help.

Fast-forward to the mid-1990’s and Lou served as a Loaned Executive (LE) with United Way.  She and another LE became very competitive with each other but Lou prevailed and won the prize for the most new businesses brought into the annual campaign.   During her time as an LE and since then, Lou had the opportunity to visit many of the United Way partner agencies.  She says, “Once you see what they are doing, it really makes an impression.”

Lou understands that her dollar goes further when invested with United Way.   She is impressed with how United Way keeps overhead costs low.  When solicited by other charities over the phone, she typically turns them down, letting them know that she gives to United Way.

Lou is now Vice President and Director of Banking Services for Premier Commercial Bank.  She is proud that her husband has been a United Way donor about as long as she has.  And now a second generation of Nunns has joined the United Way family.  Their daughter Sarah is in her first job out of college and is a donor as well.

Are you a Pearl Donor like Lou?

Have you been contributing to United Way for 25 or more years? We want to know who you are! Sign up here so we can recognize you and provide you with updates on how your contributions are creating opportunities for a better tomorrow. Thank you for being our most loyal of contributors!

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The auditorium was filled with employees sitting in front of an empty stage waiting for the event to begin.  All of a sudden a large screen projector descended and two “awards show” correspondents appeared on screen. Dressed in classic formal attire, the correspondents introduced the 2011 award show honoring the Syngenta campaign and its participants. The award show had an array of “famous” guests including: Slash, The Real Housewives of LA (Lower Archdale), and Ozzie Osbourne.  There were performances by Customer Center Manager-Lana Hedgecock, Lady Gaga, and the Black Eyed Peas.  The Syngenta Awards was definitely one of the highlights in entertainment this year.

Okay, so maybe the “celebrities” were Syngenta employees.  However, the event was filled with shining stars; employees that took the time out their schedule to dress up and entertain their colleagues, solely because they care about giving to the United Way.  Witnessing such camaraderie and excitement in a professional organization was really a great experience.  The Syngenta wrap-up proved that giving back is important, but the enthusiasm behind it is what keeps the light shining.

This post was written by Dorian Wanzer, Campaign Associate at United Way of Greater Greensboro. Dorian is a native of Greensboro, NC.  She received a BA  from Elon University and MPA from Rutgers University, in New Jersey. Dorian has had a number of educational and professional experiences working in the nonprofit sector.  As someone who is passionate about volunteerism and community engagement, Dorian is very pleased to be working at the United Way and encouraging others to Live United.

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As a former counselor at Camp Joy, a camp for people in our community with mental and physical disabilities, I came into contact with many people. However, there were a few that stand out in my  head as inspirations and examples of perseverance. One of these people was a young teenage boy named Anthony who is obsessed with basketball and more specifically Michael Jordan.

Anthony is the type of person that although plagued with health problems never let them get him down. Every day when the camp vans pulled up I would see Anthony with a basketball in hand and a smile on his face. Although I was never Anthony’s counselor I was always drawn to him and had many conversations with him.

It was not until I was a United Way Campaign Associate that I realized just how amazing Anthony really is. On an agency visit to Kids Path we met a woman named Jane Gibson who told us the story of a young man and his love of basketball and how much he touched the lives of others through his story. I immediately thought of Anthony from Camp Joy and to my surprise these young men were one and the same.

After our visit I was forwarded the article, and I was pleased to know that one of United Way’s agencies was able to touch the life of someone who I cared so much about. Seeing all that Kids Path is doing in our community made me proud and further showed me how through agencies like kids path, Greensboro is able to “Live United”.

This entry written by United Way Campaign Associate, Lindsay Smith, a recent graduate of University of North Carolina.

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All are welcome!

If you want to donate a designer handbag for the auction, please come to our “Drive Thru and Drop Off”

on October 5th, between 4-7pm to drop off your handbag @ The United Way Parking Lot (1500 Yanceyville Street)

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Even amid an uncertain economy, United Way of Greater Greensboro has approved what it’s calling an “ambitious and bold” financial goal. For its 2011-2012 campaign, board leaders have announced they’re looking to collect more than $11 million in donations this year, which is a five percent increase.

“It’s a bold goal, but we believe it’s a necessary goal in terms of meeting the needs of those in the community who have been dramatically affected by the economic downturn,” said Linda Brady, the Campaign Chair.

The organization said the effort is working to, at a minimum, maintain the support it provides to community programs that have suffered following this year’s cut in state funding.

“We want to be able to allocate the same level of funding to those agencies and programs who are achieving their goals,” said Brady.

One of the programs United Way supports is the Children’s Home Society of North Carolina. The group recently expanded its community services.

“We have parent education programs and then we have youth programs where we work with teen boys,” said Rebecca Starnes, Vice President of Family Education for Children’s Home Society of North Carolina.

In order to receive funding support from United Way, the programs must prove that their services are effective and making an impact.

“At United Way, we’re focused not simply on raising money but on changing lives,” said Brady.

“Every organization in this community could really benefit from having more financial support because the need is there, and we’d hate to turn anyone away,” said Starnes.

United Way of Greater Greensboro accepts donations year-round. It will make its allocation decisions in May and funding will be distributed beginning in July.

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On Friday, September 9th, the focus is Corporate Engagement and we are inviting the Greensboro corporate community to select a window of time when they can engage in acts of service of their choosing.

A list of agencies that have submitted request is available below. Please click on agency to see a description of the project and sign up. A confirmation email will be sent to you with all of the contact, location and project information.

If you are a nonprofit agency and have a volunteer opportunity to offer on Friday, September 9th, contact Marie Boulware at 336-378-5033.

For more information about Greensboro’s 9.11 Day of Service and Rememberance click here. Thank you for volunteering!

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(click the picture below to watch)

Thank you to David, Lynn and Pete from The Design Group!

Download the files here: e-spot

(right click on the file, and do “Save as”)

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Becoming a Caring Club® member is simple; donate $120 (that’s only $10 per month) to United Way of Greater Greensboro’s campaign in un-designated funds or funds designated to a United Way of Greater Greensboro member agency to receive a Caring Club® card. Show the card to any of the local retailers and receive discounts on products and services for the 2012 calendar year.

As a card member you will have the opportunity to save hundreds of dollars in valuable services, food and entertainment. The card pays for itself over time and it is a statement that you are helping meet the community’s critical needs and engaging in local business.

Stay tuned.  We will be releasing the 2012 merchants this month!

Click Here to Purchase your Card today!

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At the Guilford County Commission on Aging, we were urged to call our Congresspeople to ask them to re-authorize the Older Americans Act, which provides discretionary funding that is at risk of being cut in the federal budget – someone heard up to 40%.  The Act provides federal funds that constitute more than 40% of the state’s “Home and Community Care Block Grant” of almost $60 million.  The block grant is a crucial source of funding for Mobile Meals, Senior Line (I&R), respite care, adult day & health care, health promotion/disease management services, housing and home repair – among other things.  I learned what block grant recipient agencies are saying about cuts (Especially see footnote at bottom of p. 2!).

We need to have the Older Americans Act re-authorized, at level funding at least.

Without the home and community care services, more people will either have to go into expensive institutions or be cared for fulltime by family members, who in turn will become more likely to need other health and human services assistance due to lowering their income to care for their loved one!

If I were in government I’d prioritize keeping the caregivers healthy and contributing to the economy by ensuring their elderly spouses and parents can get in-home care.

I found that all the Congressional staffers I spoke to today were interested in what I had to say. Contact your Congresspeople and tell them to re-authorize the Older Americans Act to maximize the health of older adults and create economic security in our community for care-takers.

For more information on the Older American’s Act and how you can show your support, click here.

This was an email that came over from a co-worker- Sarah Glover, Community Investment Specialist – United Way of Greater Greensboro.  Pass it along and/or let us know your thoughts….

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United Way of Greater Greensboro will hold a Summer networking event and school supply drive on Thursday, August 18 from 6-8 pm at 1618 Wine Lounge on Battleground. The event will focus on collecting school supplies and toiletries for the women and children of Clara House; as well as volunteer opportunities through United Way. Please come out and bring the following items:
•    School supplies (paper, pens, erasers, notebooks, pencils, etc.)
•    Backpacks
•    Gift Cards to Clothing stores
•    Books for ages 0-3;
•    Ethnic Hair Care Products
The address is 1724 Battleground Avenue. A $5 donation is requested. For more information please contact us at 378-6600.

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HOW YOU CAN HELP:

The pantry at Gillespie Park school is in desperate need of the following:

• Canned vegetables
• Canned tuna and chicken
• Peanut butter
• Cereal and other breakfast foods
• Canned fruit

Please drop off these or other nonperishable foods to:

1900 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

Greensboro, NC 27406

Thank you to all those who have helped this summer as a volunteer and/or for your donations.

Spread the word! Thank you for making a difference in our community!

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Our tournament has been through so many changes to make it successful and keep it as the premier golf event in the triad. It started out as the Greater Greensboro Open in 1938 and was won by the golfing legend Sam Snead. The name changed in the mid to late 80’s when a major sponsor stepped in and had it renamed the Kmart Greater Greensboro Open. The name changed several more times over the last 20 years as sponsorship changes have been made. In 2007, the event was renamed the Wyndham Championship when Wyndham Hotels & Resorts took over as the main sponsor.
The venue has changed over the years from Sedgefield Country Club and Starmount Country Club in the early days to Forest Oaks Country Club in 1977. Tournament officials decided in 2008 to bring the tournament back to Beautiful Sedgefield Country Club which is in pristine shape and ready for great golf this year.
Through all the change, the one thing that remains constant is the fact that the tournament has always been played in Greensboro, that the tournament is a wonderful triad event and that our citizens will continue to support this fabulous week which hosts the great players on the PGA tour. Another constant is the commitment of the tournament staff to giving back to our community. The Greensboro Jaycees set the standard many years ago for community involvement and the staff at the Wyndham Championship have followed their lead.
This year the Wyndham Championship partnered with Triad United Way chapters to give back through online ticket sales.  For every tournament ticket purchased, the Wyndham Championship will donate 50 percent of the proceeds to the Alamance County, Winston-Salem, High Point and Greensboro United Way chapters. To participate, fans need only visit www.wyndhamchampionship.com, purchase tickets and enter the “United Way” promo code at purchase.  Fifty percent of the proceeds from each purchase will go to the United Way chapter closest to the zip code entered in the online transaction.
United Way is committed to improving the lives and meeting the needs of those in our community. Programs and partnership’s like this are a huge help in meeting these critical needs. President and CEO for United Way of Greensboro Keith Barsuhn summed it up best when he said.   “What is most important to me is that the Wyndham, who prioritizes supporting children and youth, recognizes United Way as playing an important role in the lives of children from cradle to graduation.  Last year, more than 12,000 kids in Guilford County participated in our communities best programs for tutoring, mentoring and after schools activities that were funded by United Way.  Guilford County School graduation rates are at their highest levels.  United Way programs helped support that achievement.  We are very grateful to the Wyndham for this unique partnership”.
Please take a moment and purchase your tournament tickets online and enter “United Way” in the promo code. Enjoy a day of golf, use the tickets as an employee incentive or give them to a child who ordinarily would not be able to attend the tournament. Just remember that every ticket you purchase with our promo code, you have contributed to the life of a family member, friend, child or neighbor who may be in need of assistance.

Blog Post Written by Brad Huffstetler, Donor Relations Manager at United Way of Greater Greensboro.

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Overall, the Allen Tate Company raised $52,737 to benefit local United Way organizations in 15 counties in the Charlotte, Triad, Research Triangle, and Upstate South Carolina regions.

The United Way giving campaign is one of the three giving initiatives Allen Tate Company embraces each year.  The company believes in supporting those organizations that most enhance the quality of life of a community: United Way agencies, arts and cultural programs and public education.  In 2010, Allen Tate contributed more than $126,000 to these initiatives across the Carolinas.

United Way of Greater Greensboro thanks all of our donors, and appreciates the support of all of our partners!

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Ordinary people.  Dozens of countries.  Many of the clips answer the questions of what do you fear most?  What do you love most?  What’s in your pockets?  The movie is being shown today in select locations.  While it doesn’t look like it is coming anywhere near us soon, the premise of the movie makes me think about how these people are so different.

However, the more articles I read about the movie, the more I am seeing a common theme generated by this movie/research: beyond culture and circumstance, we are all the same.  We are all human, and we all share this connection as we all have basic needs.  We are messy, yet so beautiful.  The director of the movie, Kevin Macdonald shared in an interview “The film isn’t ironic because most people’s preoccupations are few and simple – family, children, love, not being alone, not wanting to live through a war, feeling frightened of illness and death.

“That’s it – that’s what life is.”

United Way addresses this notion that we are all connected and share similar needs.  We all want to make the world better.  United Way’s mission states we are improving lives by mobilizing and uniting the caring power of our community.  We all care.

Of course every individual is different.  That’s why we call ourselves “individuals.”  But when we pull ourselves together as a community, underneath it all, we are just the same. And that’s why I speak out.  That’s why I LIVE UNITED. Because it is not enough for me to sit and think about change, it’s time for us to make change happen, because that’s what humans are meant to do.  We aren’t just here to sit around and think about the hurt in the world, we are here to create impact. 

Want to learn more about how you can give your passion, expertise & resources? United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Engagement Groups is a great place to start.  Click here to learn how you can get connected.

 Post Written by Lauren Gordon, United Way of Greater Greensboro- Marketing and Communications.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro funds programs and initiatives addressing the critical needs in our community in the areas of Education, Income/Self-Sufficiency, and Health.   This blog post is from Jacob Rosenberg, student at The Early College at Guilford, Intern at United Way of Greater Greensboro. He reminds us about the importance of expressing our voice and our vote, and current issues surrounding these topics.

Until 1965, our state of North Carolina had poll taxes, which were erected as a barrier for hard working Americans trying to vote. These artificial fraud deterrents stopped millions from voting. We had literacy tests for African Americans masquerading as protection from voter fraud. These laws, under Section 4 of an amendment to the NC Constitution called the Suffrage Amendment, only made the voting system more fraudulent and gave less people suffrage. Men like Henry Frye, who would later become the first African American Chief Justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court, were not allowed to vote because of these prejudicial tests. In an interview I conducted with him about that day in 1956 when his rights were stripped away, he simply said, “I didn’t forget about it.”

We should never forget either.

Today, there are reminders everywhere. Voter ID bills are popping up all over in state legislatures (Texas, North Carolina, Wisconsin, to name a few). These bills require voters to show government issued photo ID, effectively disenfranchising minorities, the poor, and students. Studies by the Brennan Center for Justice have found that only 22% of black men 12-24 have a legitimate driver’s license, and only 3% of Wisconsin students have driver’s licenses with their current address. An estimated 890,000 voting-age Ohioans would be disenfranchised by the state’s proposed photo ID law. Texas will not even allow an expired license to be used to cast a vote.

What is being used to justify these laws? The answer is voter fraud, the same fiction that kept Jim Crow laws in place.

Texas enacted one of the strictest voter ID laws in the country, supposedly in response to voter fraud. However, the number of voter fraud cases in Texas since 2002: one. What Texas does have is a huge turnout problem. With a 32% voter turnout rate, they rank the lowest in the country. This new law would only worsen the problem considering that 15% of the lower income bracket lack photo ID.

Even on the national stage, fraud is a false narrative. Since October of 2002, only 86 out of 196 million votes were declared fraudulent, and voter IDs would not have prevented some of these cases. Despite this, legislation is being pushed by more and more states, with 22 currently considering similar legislation. These laws leave a possible grim future for our rapidly growing youth.

In the next decade, those under 18 will be majority non-white according to Colorlines. Yet many of them will not be able to vote. Many of them will lose voting rights we thought were long ago won.

Former President Bill Clinton has even commented on these efforts to limit same day voter registration, and pass Voter ID laws. “There has never been in my lifetime, since we got rid of the poll tax and all the Jim Crow burdens on voting, the determined effort to limit the franchise that we see today.”

Justice Frye was one of the key North Carolinians to abolishing those Jim Crow laws. When Justice Henry Frye was elected the first African American to the North Carolina state legislature since reconstruction, he immediately took on what really mattered. “I made that decision that once I was elected that my first bill would be a Constitutional amendment to abolish the literacy test as a requirement for voting,” Frye said. Frye knew that voting rights were the foundation to all other rights and to our democracy. He kept his eye on the basic math of democracy and safeguarded the rights necessary to influence all other issues. We must do the same for this new generation what Henry Frye did for his. We must protect our right to vote, in essence our right to speak.

Do you believe that Voter ID laws are good for North Carolina?

What are the benefits/problems with Voter ID laws in your opinion?

What can be done to help the education of the new generation in civics, economics, and financial literacy?

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There is currently a NBA Lockout, a NFL Lockout, a shutdown government in Minnesota, and a stalemated debate over the debt ceiling in Washington. Compromise seems to be at an all time low. Some have suggested that perhaps culture is changing because of the hard economic times, and shared sacrifices.  Which is most likely true, but I believe those who have compromised time and time again have been punished in some way.

I have always learned that compromise means no one leaves completely happy. On these large issues many people may be unable to deal with a resolution that is not perfect, leaving them even a little unhappy.

Let’s start with an old example and move forward from there. Late in his Presidency,  George W. Bush passed the Troubled Assets Relief Program. Largely a bi-partisan effort the bill has been hated by many. Protests against the program are even believed to have been a spark for the now famous Tea Party. In the 2010 elections $80 million was spent on TARP attack ads, and Representatives Lisa Murkowski, Mike Castle, and Senator Robert Bennett all lost their Republican primaries because of this downfall. Compromise seems to have left these politicians high and dry despite many saying the program could have been extremely necessary.

Moving more recently, President Obama in December of 2010 cut a compromise on the Bush tax cuts. Originally Obama wanted to extend the Bush tax cuts for those making under $250,000/year and raise taxes to Clinton levels for those making over $250,000/year. Republicans wanted to extend all Bush tax cuts. The compromise extended  all tax cuts, but only for two years. Obama felt this decision was necessary to keep the recovery going and not hurt those already hurting in the middle class. This decision however largely ostracized his base. Again, many people were dissatisfied with the outcome, but something got done.

That brings us to the current issue of the debt ceiling. Our culture again wants the perfect solution. We want the deficit where we can just stop spending so much, stop the waste and all the problems will go away. Unfortunately, we do not have that deficit. We have a deficit where we either we make major cuts/changes to programs like Medicare and Social Security (as discussed in the largely unpopular Ryan plan) or we increase taxes (always somewhat unpopular). Either solution is going to leave many unhappy.

Compromise hurts, and it is always going to, but that is what America was built on. Additionally, non-compromise can hurt. Just ask any bar going Minnesotan, or investor worried about the U.S. defaulting.

To a certain extent compromise is one of those beautiful things we do not see often. I think that we ought to remember its importance and practice compromise daily. Every day strive a little to compromise on things, to take that one extra moment to realize we do not get everything we want. There are faults with TARP, Bush tax cuts, and most likely whatever will come out of debt ceiling talks, but the act of compromising is the good part of these things.

I honestly do not remember a time in my life when someone in Washington was not yelling at another person. But this is the first time in my life when I can imagine losing friends because of my political preference, who I voted for, or how big I think government should be.

Times are hard; we all know that, we all feel that. So let’s not make things worse through stubborn behavior. Together, deals can be reached and we can develop solutions. I know I am not smart enough to understand everything, but I do understand that things can be changed when people give rather than take.

We can all try to give something for the betterment of our society. Whether that is donating to a charity, conceding on one point to get something done, volunteering, or speaking on a cause, something can be done. Give is much more than money; it is a lifestyle where you are willing to sacrifice for others – maybe even compromise.

Cartoon found at: http://img.allvoices.com/thumbs/image/609/609/66160999-compromise.jpg

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What: For every tournament ticket purchased for the 72nd annual Wyndham Championship 50% of the proceeds go to United Way (When you use our Promo Code)

How: To participate, fans need visit the Wyndham website to purchase tickets and type in “United Way” as the promo code at purchase.

When: The tournament is August 15th – 21st, 2011.

Where: @ Sedgefield Country Club.

“The United Ways in the Piedmont Triad are extremely grateful for this opportunity to partner with the Wyndham Championship. Not only will the United Way be able to help more people in need, but in particular, the United Way’s focus on education initiatives that help students from elementary through high school will benefit greatly from this support.”   – Keith Barsuhn, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro

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Have you ever stopped to think about how many people depend on those volunteers?  In Greensboro and all over the country, nonprofit organizations depend on a constant stream of volunteers to fulfill their mission.  Federally funded programs such as Americorps and Teach for America strategically place volunteers in nonprofits nationwide to help support local communities.  But these programs, as dependable and successful as they have been in the past, were among the first programs under scrutiny when budgets got tight.  The National Corporation for Community Service – the umbrella organization that coordinates the Americorps program and others – was cut $72 million dollars from 2010.  The Learn and Serve America program was cut completely, and the Americorps programs received a $23 million dollar cut.  This was all during a time when the organizational requests for volunteers have nearly doubled compared to previous years.

So, why should we care?  We are seeing budget cuts affect our local agencies that are addressing the most pressing issues right here in Greensboro. The volunteers of the past that coordinated community food drives or organized students at events are no longer there.  The infrastructure of many of the organizations within our community are at risk – and we can help.  By volunteering, we can help minimize the impact of these cuts and help local nonprofits fulfill their missions to the community.

My name is Kristin, and I have just recently joined the United Way Young Leaders – a group of amazing young professionals dedicated to philanthropy and service in the Greensboro area.  I’ve only attended a few events so far, but it’s already clear to me that these folks care about our community and its success.  In an environment where we are shrinking back into our core being – either out of necessity, defensiveness, uncertainty, or fear – we must remember to reach out to others.  Together we can Live United.

“The road to success is not crowded. Because while most are looking for ways to take, the truly successful people are finding ways to give. With a giving attitude, every situation is an opportunity for success.” - Unknown

United Way of Greater Greensboro funds programs and initiatives that are meeting the critical needs in our community in the areas of Education, Income Stability and Health. Each program and initiative is evaluated throughout the year to ensure it meets critical need in the community, is making an impact, and aligns with United Way’s objectives. Blog post written by Kristin Buchner, Graduate Assistant for Community Engagement & United Way Volunteer.

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Famous author G.K. Chesterton once said, “There is a great deal of difference between an eager man who wants to read a book and a tired man who wants a book to read.” A study by Purdue assistant professor of development studies, Jennifer Dobbs-Oates, is putting new validity behind this statement.

Her study’s focus was on, “low-income preschoolers ages 3-5,” and asked parents questions about the level of interest their children had in reading. The study found that students who showed an early interest in reading, “[were] more likely to show positive, adaptive behavior [rather] than negative, disruptive kinds of behavior.” However, it is just not reading for the sake of reading that helps. “It’s like a three-legged stool – learning and behavior aren’t enough, you also need to incorporate a child’s interests and motivation,” said Dobbs-Oates.

Think about this in context. Here is Sam, a student in the 2^nd grade class who is reading well above grade level.  Next to him is Rachel, who is struggling to read at a first grade level.  Is Sam smarter than Rachel?  Or, was Rachel deprived of the tools to help her learn at an early age? By giving children books when they are young, we empower them to become better students and better people. Talk to your kids, learn what interests they have and make learning personal. As parents and responsible members of the community, we must show children that learning is something they can grow to love.

Oftentimes we think that to change a child’s behavior it is merely a function of he or she changing.  In reality, the parents and families must collectively adjust their actions and mindset so that children can understand the importance of learning.

This kind of family wide change also addresses the problem of obesity. Dr. Dennis Clements of Duke often tells families, “Obesity is a family event, not an individual event.”  He offers advice for how to make the changes necessary to truly change the way we live. Our problems are not things that can be done away with ease, no matter how fool-proof the product seemed at 2 a.m. on that infomercial.

If we want to give our children the best future possible, it means change by all of us. United Way is committed to making changes for the better. The Thriving at 3 initiative operates under the premise that children who are physically and emotionally healthy by age three are more likely to be successful in school and in life—and a focus on early literacy is a key component.

Change is scary, and it is hard. However, when we realize the impact that we have on someone else’s life, it makes change a lot easier. Any child, including myself, can tell you that a parent’s help learning makes everything easier. From a teacher’s lesson plan to the everyday complications of growing up, communication in some form with a mentor is unimaginably helpful. Someday we can all hope to be lucky enough to help someone as much as our mentors have helped us. Let’s make someday as soon as possible.

_______________________________________________________

What do you think should be done to help early child development?

What do you see as a key to the future of our children’s education?

Comment below and start the discussion…….

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The North Carolina budget begins in just a few days, July 1^st, and not without controversy. Passed in a 31-19 override of Governor Bev Perdue’s veto, the two year spending plan has major cuts, especially to education. In a year where government is taking away services, we must become more involved. Now is the time to give our time, voice, and efforts to the Guilford County education system.

As a current student in the Guilford County Schools and a former member of an advisory council of students for Superintendent Maurice Green, I know firsthand that this next year may be one of the most difficult yet. Our school system will need us. As a student, I need you. Superintendent Green has said that he believes class sizes can stay the same and minimal to no layoffs will occur, but with an added 5 days of school next year there are going to be even more budgetary issues.

During these difficult times it is more important than ever to Live United by giving, advocating, and volunteering.

Money is great, but there is so much more to giving than that. The school system needs books, it needs supplies, and it needs our help. Currently, Guilford County Schools are hosting a One Million Book Drive, a few old dusty books from your attic couldn’t be given away?

Kay Hagan is our Senator and on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee. We could all take a second to write her a letter, send an email, and let her know exactly what we think needs to happen for education on the national level. We all have local representatives whose jobs are to represent us, so make them work. Send them a letter; send them a message that education is important. Advocating can even just be talking to a friend, forwarding an email, posting a status on Facebook, sending out a tweet, writing a blog post. Anything we can do to get the message out to the community.

Starting a book drive, going to your old high schools and helping out, becoming a more involved parent, these are all small volunteer opportunities we utilize to help our schools. Many of you are already doing these things, so convince a friend to come along with you next time. Perhaps put in an extra hour of volunteering this school year, every little bit helps. Just one extra minute can mean everything to a developing young student. Guilford County Schools has even kicked off a new service learning program that focuses on volunteering in the community. What better way to teach students these values than by example?

Now is the time when our students need us most. Those of us lucky enough to have gone to great schools know how important they have been in our lives. Guilford County Schools lost some money; let’s make sure that doesn’t mean a single student loses their chance at an education.

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It’s natural to think about the many people in our nation and world who desperately need a helping hand. We are all aware of the world-wide natural disasters that have recently occurred.  And many of us give most generously to the worthwhile charities trying to help.

But do you ever feel like you want to participate more directly? If you do, you’re part of a growing number of people taking grassroots actions with events to help neighbors in their community.

If you think it won’t make a difference, think again. According to America’s Second Harvest, local food drives provide nearly one third of the two billion pounds of food it distributes annually. During 2010, United Way of Greater Greensboro hosted “community conversations” to identify the issues most important to Greensboro residents. Four issue areas emerged from the community: financial stability, access to health care, successful school experiences, and positive youth development. United Way of Greater Greensboro recognizes basic needs must be met while working toward resolving larger community issues. It’s hard to imagine that 1 out of 4 of our neighbors here in Greensboro are experiencing food hardships.  When individuals, organizations, governments and businesses set aside their special interests and work together, we can make a difference.  Living United means being part of the change.

On Tuesday, June 21^st individuals and families across the country will participate in the fourth annual United Way Day of Action. Here in Greensboro, the event will be the MeaningFULL Meals’ Drive Through and Drop Off. At the central office, United Way of Greater Greensboro is hosting a drop off zone to collect non-perishable food items for the MeaningFULL Meals Nutrition Project. You may drop off your non-perishable items between 6am-10am and again between 4pm-7pm.

After the non-perishable food is dropped off at the central United Way office the food will be taken to Gillespie Park Elementary School, where United Way Volunteers will be packing bags of food that will be distributed to the children of families in the Gillespie Park community.

Although, helping your community can be a onetime gesture, it can be so much more! The United Way of Greater Greensboro is continuing MeaningFULL Meals all summer long! Between June 13th and August 15th, you can donate non-perishable foods to Gillespie Park Elementary School Monday through Thursday from 9am – 1pm. Or, if you are looking to volunteer time helping prepare bags of food for the next day would be extremely helpful! You can volunteer your time on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am to 1pm. To learn more about this project, visit our website at www.unitedwaygso.org. If you are interested in signing up to be part of the MeaningFULL Meals please call us at (336) 378-5033.

Article Written by Volunteer, Amy Riss.

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Highlights of the $19.7 billion budget for North Carolina state government & K-12 SCHOOLS

• require $124.2 million in additional savings as determined by local school districts, spread out from among the 115 districts.
• eliminate funds for Dropout Prevention Grant program, saving $13.3 million.
• reduce funding for new textbooks
• reduces instructional supplies funding allotment to districts by 46 percent
• eliminate mentoring funds for school districts
• eliminate staff development funds for school districts
• reduce by 20 percent, or $16 million, in funding for the More at Four prekindergarten program and transfer the program to the Department of Health and Human Services.

Health and Human Services

• reduce Smart Start funding by 20 percent, or $37.6 million.
• $5 million cut in grants and contracts to nonprofit health and human service providers;

Justice and Public Safety

• eliminate $1.1 million for nonprofit mediation centers.

General Government

• reduce funding for North Carolina Housing Finance Agency thereby reducing the Housing Trust Fund.

We want to hear from you!

So what?    Even though this may be a state-wide budget, their will be cuts in our community and affect the funding that our programs rely on for support from the state level.  What does this mean to you?  What is your role?  We all must learn how this effects you and advocate for the cause (or causes) close to your heart.

Let us know your thoughts on these changes that are happening right here, right now.

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Want to help United Way of Greater Greensboro

Give, Advocate, and Volunteer?

……………….

Here’s how…

Give: Donate Food items at Gillespie Park Elementary School

Advocate: Coordinate a food drive in your neighborhood or business

Volunteer: Tuesday’s and Thursday’s – June 14th to August 18th @ 9:30am-1:30pm

Each time slot will be a group of 3 volunteers… Call us to sign up today at 336.378.5033…

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United Way of Greater Greensboro conducted a health and human services assessment, empowering over 1,700 individuals to voice their opinions. Through this we found that financial stability, health care access, success in school, and nurturing children are all main concerns in our Greensboro Community.

In response to listening to the community, we are making great strides to stay in tune with the community interests and needs… having this information isn’t enough. Your opinions, interests, and needs are always evolving. We need you to stay vocal. Tell us what is important to you so that we are turning outward and acting on the true issues. So here’s your call to action: from today on, we urge you to speak your voice and use our social media outlets to tell us more about the change you want to see in your community. If you feel strongly about an issue and want to post it to our blog (email us your post), facebook, or twitter, we invite it. This is your community, and we want you to have a say in the change you want to see around you and your neighbors.



If you view our Voices. Choices. link, you can learn further about each of these issues.

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Distinguished guest Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole spoke specifically to education and literacy, and what could be done to help. She said, “Education is about living a good life…And when we ask ourselves what is the most critical component of formal education, it’s only one answer, it is learning to read,” Dr. Cole put a simple tagline behind her message, “first children learn to read and then children read to learn.”

The combination of Women’s Leadership and Tocqueville Women’s Leadership proved fantastic. Thank you to all those who came to see Dr. Cole’s powerful message, and to all those who made Women in Philanthropy such a success, without the hard work and commitment of so many great women these things could not have been possible.

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GREENSBORO — Partners Ending Homelessness will host the third annual Home Run for Homelessness on Wednesday at NewBridge Bank Park, where the Greensboro Grasshoppers will play the Lakewood BlueClaws. The group created the event three years ago to celebrate the implementation of Guilford County’s 10 Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. Now it is an opportunity to increase Guilford County citizens’ knowledge about homelessness in the community while enjoying America’s favorite pastime. A portion of the proceeds of every group ticket sold will be donated to Partners Ending Homelessness. The gates will open at 6 p.m. and Thriving at Three Kids Carnival will kick off on Natty’s Hill within the stadium at the same time. Activities include face painting, obstacle courses, moon bounces, races, crafts and more. A choir of homeless people will sing the national anthem.

Here are some pictures from last years carnival –

We hope that you can make it to the stadium this year!

Comment and let us know what you think!

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Children’s Home Society of NC has been awarded a three-year grant of up to $6 million – with a first-year award of $2 million- from Edna McConnell Clark Foundation and the Social Innovation Fund. These investments will be matched by the Duke Endowment and others for a total of up to $12 million in three years. CHS will expand and implement its Family Finding program statewide, connecting more children in foster care with birth-family relatives and other resources. In addition, CHS will expand its evidence-based teen pregnancy-prevention program, Wise Guys, which targets adolescent males.                                           

 -Info from Guilford Record: 4/21/11

What is the Wise Guys Program?

Wise Guys is an award winning adolescent pregnancy and STI prevention program for young men. Curricula and multi-session programs are designed to promote sexual responsibility in young males.

Over 2,300 professionals nationwide have been trained to implement the Wise Guys program in their home communities. This program has been successfully replicated in many diverse communities serving a variety of ethnicities and populations.

Wise Guys Male Responsibility Curriculum © and the Latino version, Jóvenes Sabios, is now used by public, private, non-profit, health, community, school-based and faith-based organizations in over 45 states and the list continues to grow!

Wise Guys is:

* Research Based

* Evaluated Program

* Best Practice Model

* Peer Reviewed

* National Award Winner

* NC State Award Winner

* Community Award Winner

* Curriculum Approved for use by many funding sources

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To Provide Free Laundry Services

WHO:        The service is available to all families or individuals in need of clean clothes.

WHAT:     Beginning Wednesday, April 20^th, the Tide Loads of Hope mobile laundry program will bring its free laundry services to Fayetteville and on Friday, April 22^nd to Bertie County, NC to provide clean clothes to those affected by the recent tornadoes. Working with the American Red Cross, Tide Loads of Hope will deploy its fleet of vans to transport laundry to and from local laundromats to be washed, dried and folded by the Tide Loads of Hope team, free of charge. Laundry will be accepted and returned at the specified laundromats in each area. No bedding, jackets, or other large pieces will be accepted.

Tide Loads of Hope was created in 2005 to provide much needed free laundry services to families affected by Hurricane Katrina. Inspired by the resilience and spirit of the people of New Orleans, Tide was driven to expand the Loads of Hope program and has since helped families affected by disaster in Southern California, Texas, North Dakota, and most recently, Tennessee. Today, the program includes the Tide Loads of Hope truck outfitted with 32 energy-efficient Frigidaire^® Affinity^™ washers and dryers, and a fleet of vans that allow the Tide team to help more families than ever before. Collectively, Tide has washed over 35,000 loads of laundry for more than 27,000 families impacted by disasters since the program launched.  

WHY:        Tide has learned that little things – like clean clothes – can make a big difference to those who have lost the comforts of home. Recent tornadoes have devastated parts of North Carolina and have forced many residents from their homes, leaving them without basic needs and resources. Tide Loads of Hope is prepared to help relief workers and families whose clothing and personal items have been impacted and to help renew a sense of hope to individuals in need. 

 HOW:        People across the country can help support Tide Loads of Hope by purchasing a Tide Loads of Hope vintage tee by visiting www.tideloadsofhope.com. All of the profits from the tees go to help families affected by natural disaster.

 WHERE:   Tide Loads of Hope Drop-Off Sites: 

 Kore-O-Mat

3311 Bragg Boulevard

Fayetteville, NC

(910) 867-4379

The Wash House

126 Granville St.

Windsor, NC 27983

WHEN:     Services available:

Kore-O-Mat, Fayetteville: Wednesday, April 20^th through Saturday, April 23^rd from 8AM – 8PM

The Wash House, Windsor: Friday, April 22^nd through Sunday, April 24^th from 8AM – 8PM

For more information:

Ali LaFleur – DeVries PR, 212-891-0463(o) alafleur@devries-pr.com   

 ** Follow @TideLoadsofHope or become a fan of Tide on Facebook for updates on the program.**

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• A troubled Greensboro family is kept together through home-based counseling because of you.
• A teenage mother in our community is able to succeed in school and deliver and parent a healthy child because of you.
• A neighbor in debt trouble avoids bankruptcy, achieves financial goals, and regains a sense of financial well-being because of you.

 A gift to United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Endowment builds a financial foundation for our community’s needs and solutions of tomorrow.  As issues facing Greensboro change and evolve in the future, a gift to our endowment will ensure that the critical needs are addressed.  And when the unexpected arises, United Way’s Endowment will provide resources to help weather the storm.

Donors who make a current or deferred gift to the endowment are recognized through United Way’s Legacy Society.  Members of the Legacy Society are forward-thinking donors who want to ensure a brighter future for our community.   This is what it means to LIVE UNITED.

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The event was held on Tuesday, April 12th at West Market Street United Methodist Church, Downtown Greensboro.  The proceeds from this event benefit Reading Connections, whose mission is to help adults live more independently by providing free and confidential basic literacy services, to increase community awareness of adult literacy needs, and to serve as a resource for the provision of basic literacy services.

Photography courtesy of Kathryn Quilter Photography.

  
Would you like to be connected with Reading Connections?  Is reading something you enjoy?  Take just a minute and imagine the impact you will make on someone’s life by spending just an hour or two each week working with them. To learn how you can become a volunteer tutor or to learn more about this great service opportunity, please contact Beth Larson at 336.230.2223.

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·  Tornado damage is widespread across Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina and Virginia. And more than 700,000 acres have been scorched by wildfires in Texas prompting evacuations and destroying homes. Oklahoma has been hit doubly hard by both tornadoes and wildfires in just the last week.

·  In North Carolina alone, preliminary disaster assessments show almost 500 homes destroyed and more than 1,000 damaged.

·  More than 500 people sought refuge in Red Cross shelters in four states this weekend. To find an open shelter visit www.redcross.org.

·   Across the south, Red Cross workers are serving meals and providing essential supplies as clean-up efforts begin. More than 25 response vehicles are on the ground in North Carolina and another eight are supporting Alabama. In Mississippi alone, an estimated 4,000 meals and snacks have been served.

·  With government officials reporting more than 40 deaths from this weekend’s severe weather, Red Cross disaster mental health workers are available to help people cope with the aftermath.

·  The Red Cross will be on the ground in all of these affected areas for weeks to help people get back on their feet and make sure disaster caused needs are met.

Photo from website: http://gso.redcross.org/ 

Since the end of March, the Red Cross has helped people affected by 35 large disasters like floods, tornadoes and wildfires in 20 states, making this an extremely busy spring.

·  Prior to this weekend’s severe weather, Red Cross workers have supported residents in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Minnesota, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Wisconsin recover from floods, tornadoes and wildfires.

·  Each year the Red Cross spends an average of about $450 million on providing disaster relief to people in need and maintaining the resources needed to get help to people 24/7.

·  There is no other non-governmental organization that can respond to disasters on the size and scale of the Red Cross – but we rely on donations from the American public to be ready to respond every day across the country.

The Red Cross depends on financial donations to get help to people affected by disasters. Please consider making a donation today; every single donation brings hope to those in need.

·  You can help people affected by disasters like floods, fires, tornadoes and hurricanes, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief.

·  Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.

·  Visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

·  Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

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Omega McKinnon is determined to succeed. And she’s doing it ahead of schedule. At 22, Omega is in her first year of a Master’s in Public Administration program at North Carolina Central University. She is there on a scholarship, after completing her undergraduate studies – also on a scholarship – at North Carolina State University in just three years.

Omega’s life has not been without setbacks or events which could have easily sidetracked her. But with a get-it-done attitude and the support of Communities In Schools, this confident young woman is well on her way to doing something important with her life.

From the time she was young, Omega has lived with her grandmother. Her father had gone to prison, and her mother was addicted to drugs so she could not care for Omega.

Omega was a good student and knew from a young age that she wanted to attend college. She dreamed of becoming a lawyer one day. Omega’s grandmother had limited resources, and while in 9th grade at Dudley High School, Omega was referred to Communities In Schools of Greater Greensboro. She met Angie Carter, the Communities In Schools 21st Century Scholars program director, who introduced Omega to the college and career access program. Carter encouraged Omega to stay in school, participate in job shadowing opportunities and eventually pursue a college degree as a necessary step in achieving her goal of becoming an attorney.

“Communities In Schools and 21st Century Scholars offered wonderful learning experiences,” Omega explained. “They started me off with a mentor who worked with me through the hard times of being young and in high school. I participated in job shadowing and went on college visits. They guided me through the process of filling out applications and obtaining financial aid. If I needed help with anything, I knew I could call Ms. Carter.”

Carter also played a role in helping Omega through the challenge of teen pregnancy. Omega found out she was pregnant at the end of 10th grade and gave birth to her son Aaron in 11th grade. During this time, Carter and Omega’s grandmother forged an alliance that created a strong support system for Omega. Omega’s grandmother agreed to watch the baby, and with Carter’s help, Omega enrolled in a teen parent/life skills class at the local YWCA. The program matched her with a mentor who was a college student, and focused on healthy living and staying in school. Omega also received baby items, books to read to her child and other resources.

By the time Omega was a senior, she was taking classes at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, a dual enrollment program at her high school that allowed Omega to accelerate her studies and take honors and advanced placement classes. She had already been accepted to North Carolina State, and graduated from high school with her first year of college under her belt.

“Omega is such a hard worker,” Carter said. “She is bright, capable and motivated. Sometimes it’s a challenge to keep up with her!”

While in college, Omega began an internship with the Communities In Schools state office in Raleigh. She continues to work there today in her free time and during the summers. She has gained a broad range of experience with Communities In Schools, performing data entry and other office duties, attending conferences and fundraisers, even advocating for Communities In Schools during public speaking engagements with the general assembly and funders. She speaks to groups of students, telling them how important it is for them to stay in school. She even found out about the GlaxoSmithKline Opportunity Scholarship while doing research one day on the job. It was the day applications were due. In typical Omega fashion, she quickly got her materials together and recommendations from the Communities In Schools staff, sent everything off, and was awarded the scholarship that made grad school possible.

Omega has changed her career plans. She now wants to work with teen parents and other young people who are facing obstacles in life. “I see a lot of girls my age with kids. Not many of them continue their education. It is possible to work hard and accomplish your goals – I’m living proof of that.”

Omega’s life is full of possibilities. She has an apartment of her own near campus. She sees her son and grandmother often; Aaron is now five and continues to live with her grandmother while Omega is still in school. She studies, works and plans for the future.

“Omega has the student mom thing down,” said Carter. “I can’t wait to see what she does next.”

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Click to view pictures from the 2011 Distinguished Service Awards Banquet.

The 2011 Distinguished Service Achievement Awards were presented in the following categories:

Education: Margaret Arbuckle

Dr. Arbuckle is recognized as a leader in working with groups and individuals on developing programs and policies to address children’s needs in Guilford County. She currently serves as the Executive Director of the Guilford Education Alliance, a county-wide non-profit organization to promote and support quality education for all of our county’s citizens. Dr. Arbuckle is a founding member of Thriving at 3, a United Way led community effort working to ensure that children are healthy, physically and emotionally by age 3. Margaret also serves on the United Way of Greater Greensboro Initiatives Committee.

Health & Wellness: Veita J. Bland, MD

Dr. Veita Bland is in private practice in Greensboro, NC. She specializes in clinical hypertension, and is a strong voice in enabling the community to treat this silent killer. Dr. Bland is the host of a weekly radio call-in program addressing health issues and writes a weekly health column.

Income/Self-Sufficiency: CC Lamberth

Mr. CC Lamberth is a community leader and successful business owner. The former owner and Executive Vice President of CoMor Corporation, a computer networking and IT firm. His community leadership extends to the Advisory Board for the School of Technology at North Carolina A&T State University and chairman of the member of the Omega Psi Fraternity. Additionally, Cornelious is the President, Charter Member and past Chairman of the Labor and Industry Committee Greensboro Branch of the NAACP.

Additionally, Bank of America was presented with the 2011 Distinguished Service Achievement Award in the Corporate category. This award recognizes an agency or corporation that promotes African American Leadership through its commitment to the community, management and programs that target the needs of the African American Community. In North Carolina associates donated $4,991,901 to local campaigns and volunteered in food banks, taught financial education and helped critical needs service providers in their communities.

2011 Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Ralph K. Shelton, a United Way Cornerstone Donor and avid African American Leadership supporter. In 1984 Mr. Shelton left a secure and enjoyable job in energy with Burlington Industry to start Southeast Fuels, Inc. In 2009, Southeast Fuels celebrated its 25th anniversary as a coal/oil supplier to major accounts. Shelton remains Chairman of the company.

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 Born Reader

   You can buy baby bibs, sippy cups and tiny little T-shirts proudly emblazoned with this slogan. I love the sentiment, but unfortunately it is simply not true. Readers are made, not born. The process of learning to read requires great effort on the part of teachers, librarians and others, but it is ultimately   the parents who are the child’s first and most important reading teacher.

   The formula for “making” a reader is as much art as science, but there are a few things we know for sure: Phonemic awareness (the ability to hear and identify individual sounds within a stream of speech) is a basic building block for reading; so parents who talk frequently to their children, especially during the first eight to 10 months of life, greatly increase the child’s level of phonemic awareness. Print awareness (the recognition that words on a page have meaning) is another essential building block for reading. Parents who read regularly to their infants and expose them to a diverse array of appropriate reading materials are using some of the most effective strategies for making sure that a child becomes a good reader.

   The research is clear also on this point: What happens during the first three years of life determines much about whether a child will become a successful learner.  

   The United Way of Greater Greensboro knows this research well. Through its Thriving at 3 program (thrivingat3.org), United Way has become a champion for programs that provide parents with the resources and information they need to become their child’s first teachers.

   Thriving at 3 is a community collaboration with a simple premise: Children who are healthy, physically and emotionally, by age 3 are more likely to be successful in school and in life.

   Recently, United Way of Greater Greensboro funded an expansion of Family Place, a weekly library program that connects parents of infants and toddlers with child-development experts. The new program takes place every Saturday morning at the McGirt-Horton Branch in northeast Greensboro.

   “We supported the Mc-Girt-Horton library because we believed that having the resources of the library in such close proximity to the families that Thriving at Three serves would be an integral part of the success of the program,” said Susan Wiseman, one of the donors to United Way’s Tocqueville Society. “It is a   beautiful and welcoming place that provides meeting space, books and enrichment programs that are essential to the healthy development of young children.”

   Family Place builds on the knowledge that parental involvement and supportive communities play a critical role in young children’s growth and development.

   It connects parents with the resources, programs and services offered at the library and other family   service agencies, and it creates the network families need to nurture their children’s development during the critical first years of life. For many families, a Family Place program is their first visit to a library.

   At a typical Family Place program, children listen to stories; play with blocks, puzzles, arts and crafts; and engage in other age-appropriate activities while their parents are learning about early childhood development issues from a local expert.  

   In recent months, Family Place workshops have included a speech pathologist, a teacher for the visually impaired, a nutritionist and a child-development specialist. These professionals interact with the parents and answer their questions in a relaxed environment.

   “In addition to asking questions that may not have come up in regular visits with a pediatrician, at a Family Place program many of the parents have been quite comfortable asking delicate questions about their child’s development,” said Christine Griffith, one of the librarians who runs the program. “It’s been a real benefit to parents who may not normally   have easy access to these professionals.”

   Brandon Bensley, another children’s librarian involved with the project, points out that “the learning process begins earlier than many parents realize, and Family Place offers   a way for parents to discover some amazing things about the developmental process of their young children.”

   Until the day comes that babies are born reading, the efforts of United Way, the library and other community resources are   essential to helping us become a community of readers.

   See you at the library.

   Steve Sumerford (steve.sumerford@greensboronc.gov) is assistant director of the Greensboro Public Library.

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 All women are welcome. Please contact Jennifer Gipp or Tamera Ziglar if you are interested.

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“One Saturday, my sister and her children visit me from Charlotte.  I meet them at the Depot after their high-speed rail trip, and we walk through the Cultural District toward the Children’s Museum to participate in its latest Edible Schoolyard program.  On the way, I show her Greensboro’s recent condominium/grocery store development being constructed near our new federal courthouse and the latest UNCG expansion.  As we pass the performance center on Church Street, she tells me that a friend from Atlanta is coming to see the upcoming James Taylor concert, stay at our downtown hotel and visit the Civil Rights Museum.  WE then choose the café where we’ll eat after our kids play in Center City Park later that day. I’m happy most of our visits now occur in Greensboro.  This one won’t happen yet, but with vision, leadership and public/private investment in our Cultural District, it could.”

– John M. Cross Jr., an attorney, is United Way board chairman and  former chairman, the Greensboro Children’s Museum

“Leveraging technology, social media and connections around the globe, Millennials will collaborate, design and start innovative businesses.  New technologies make it possible to operate thriving businesses from anywhere – and Greensboro is poised to capitalize on the promise of a growing virtual work force.  Millennials will build a robust virtual and physical community of artists, entrepreneurs and social change agents who are continuously interacting with the world’s best innovators.  They’ll diversify and enrich our community’s culture as they demonstrate their artistic talents, create jobs, run for office and engage in solving community issues.  They will graduate from our local colleges and universities with more degrees in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) fields.  They will give back to this community.  They will help create a climate that compels more of our city’s Millennials to stay in Greensboro, putting their artistic, entrepreneurial and leadership skills to use right here.”

-Mona Gillis Edwards, vice president and chief of staff, Center for Creative Leadership

“I believe the city will have ‘community open heart surgery.’  The external stressful conditions are responsible for this surgery are tough economic conditions, combined with an emotional political environment.  When there’s a healthy community heart, everything flows together as a single unit.  Even though I am not a social cardiologist, I suspect, upon entering our city’s heart, we’d discover some blockages to and from certain critical parts of our community.  The key to successful treatment is the recognition that too many of us struggle to make a living wage= and the willingness to give the working poor a hand up, not a hand out. My vision of Greensboro’s recover reminds me of ‘The Story of Stone Soup.’  As we pull the city’s ‘new heart’ out of its’ velvet bag, there will be enough for all, and everyone will know that our heart is not for sale.”

-The Rev.  Odell Cleveland, co-founder, Welfare Reform Liaison Project

Click to Read the Full Article – The Next Big Thing

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Where: Greensboro Red Cross * 1501 Yanceyville Street * Greensboro, NC

 Join the American Red Cross for the Gabrielle Giffords Honorary Save-a-Life Saturday

Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords

Just over two months ago, the events that in Arizona reminded the nation of the importance of being prepared in the event of an emergency. Many of the bystanders knew CPR and first aid and were able to save the lives of several victims, including Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords, who received help from her intern Daniel Hernandez.

What an important reminder it is for us all know and have first aid skills!  Tomorrow, locally and across the nation, the Red Cross will provide fast and easy classes to teach the basics of hands-only CPR, the treatment of shock and how to treat wounds. The classes will be shortened versions of Red Cross training courses, lasting approximately 45 minutes to one hour and offered multiple times during the day.

Join the effort of the American Red Cross to equip a greater number of citizens with life savings skills

To learn more about Save a life Saturday click here.

For upcoming Red Cross events click here to view their calendar.

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Roughly 15 month ago, 1,700 community “voices” were heard through “Voices Choices,” Greensboro’s human services study.  United Way of Greater Greensboro partnered with Weaver Foundation, the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, Cone Heath Foundation to conduct a survey to identify and prioritize the most urgent human services needs affecting our community today.  Information was gathered through 12 focus groups, four community forums, an e-mail survey, a services-provider forum, and community experts who analyzed existing data.  On behalf of the Voices Choices Steering Committee, we’d like to thank you for lending your voice to this process.

Through community feedback, four issues were identified and groups are convening around the following issues: “Improving the Financial Stability of Individuals and Families,” “Access to Comprehensive Health Care Services,” “Successful School Experiences for Every Child” and “Nurturing Children and Youth for Positive Development.”

For more information on study results and next steps, please visit the Voices Choices Link.

Please help our community by joining the next phase.  Volunteer for an issue area that interests you by contacting Anna.Hoy@unitedwaygso.org.

-Mona Edwards and Roger Beahm, Co-chairs of the Voices. Choices. Steering Committee

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 What: Greensboro Grasshoppers vs. Lakewood BlueClaws 

Where: NewBridge Bank Park, Greensboro 

When: Wednesday, June 1, 2011  

   6:00 PM: Gates Open

   6:00 PM: Kids Carnival on Natty’s Hill

   7:00 PM: Opening Pitch

Reserve your seats by May 27th  

 $2 from each advance ticket order benefits  Partners Ending Homelessness

 Advance tickets = $7 – $9 (minimum order of 10 tickets required)

 For more information, or to place your ticket orders, call Travis Kerstetter at 336.268.2889

 Partners Ending Homelessness is the planning and coordinating agency responsible for securing and administering major funding with continuous oversight for homeless service delivery in Greensboro, High Point and Guilford County.  The Partnership is responsible for actively implementing, evaluating and updating Guilford County’s Ten Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness and serves as the lead agency for Guilford County’s federally designated Continuum of Care. 

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Sanders Cockman (middle) Darby Henley of Merrill Lynch (right), both members of the United Way of Greater Greensboro board of directors, visited the UWGG office today to present a $75,000 corporate check to UWGG on behalf of Bank of America/Merrill Lynch. Also pictured, Keith Barsuhn, President and CEO of UWGG.

Today we updated our goal progress, too! We thank everyone who has helped us move toward 100% of our 2010 goal.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Leadership (AAL) engagement group presents its third annual Breakfast with Community Leaders on Tuesday, December 7, 2010. Michelle-Gethers Clark, Unite Way of Greater Greensboro Board Member and AAL Advisory Committee Member, will facilitate a panel discussion on the crisis of the African-American male in our community.

AAL is developing an African-American Male Initiative based on the survey results and community feedback issues around impacting the African American community.  The event, hosted by Novartis Animal Health, is by invitation only. For more information call Jenny Stokes at (336) 378-5040.

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Part of the Syngenta campaign that has raised $397,000 this year for United Way of Greater Greensboro, Pay It Forward randomly matched 30 employee teams with one of the 30 United Way member agencies, instructing them to go plant life in the community. Teams received $200 to fund a project of their own design that would make a difference to their individual programs funded by United Way. Teams then shared their project on storyboards, where employees voted for their favorite in the categories of Spirit, Creativity and Impact. Boy Scouts of America won the Spirit Award, Guilford Child Health the Impact Award and Communities in Schools the Creativity Award.

“This has been a tough economic year, so we knew we had to do something different,” said Carla Blaine, Syngenta campaign co-chair. This year’s campaign, “Plant Life. Live United.”, increased employee participation by 5 percent increase over 2009 and contributed about 3,000 community hours.

“The way Syngenta stepped out on a limb to do something unique is a best practice for other companies,” said Keith Barsuhn, president and CEO, United Way of Greater Greensboro. “It’s a good example of getting together and doing what’s right for the community.” He said Syngenta ranks in the Top 5 of corporate contributors.

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It’s United Way Night!

UNCG Men’s Basketball vs. NC A&T Men’s Basketball

Monday, November 29, 2010 at the Greensboro Coliseum

5:00PM to 6:30PM Indoor tailgate/7:00PM Tip-off

Order your tickets!
Via phone
Call the UNCG ticket office at (336) 334-3250 and request OPTION BLUE or OPTION GOLD tickets
to support United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Via mail
Mail order form to:
UNCG Athletics
ATTN: Shona Lauritano
337 HHP Building, PO Box 26168
Greensboro, NC 27402

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50%
As of Wednesday, United Way of Greater Greensboro announced that it has raised $5,617,035 so far. This amount is 50% of our $11.2 million dollar goal.

“Our United Way member agencies and partners continue to see the negative “ripple effects” of the economy as they are called upon to serve more people with decreasing resources. We want the community to be aware that both United Way Campaigns need help if we are to succeed. We need as many people as possible to step forward and give to United Way so we can build on what is working in our community, and meet the needs of our neighbors.” Dr. Linda Brady, Vice Chair of United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Campaign Cabinet

63%
United Way of Greater High Point’s 2010 fund-raising goal is $4,250,000. As of November 17, UWGHP has raised $2,675,795, which is 63% of its goal.

“While we are encouraged by this positive news, we must also emphasize that the health and human service needs in our communities throughout Guilford County have only increased. We are counting on the residents of these communities to join us in doing everything we can to insure that our United Way partner agencies are able to continue providing critical services. We must achieve our 2010 goals, and we will need everyone’s help to do it.” Randy Brodd, 2010 Campaign Chair for the United Way of Greater High Point

Students from Haynes-Inman wore LIVE UNITED t-shirts to announce each United Way’s mid-campaign totals. Ten top-performing companies — five from each United Way — were recognized with trophies made by Haynes-Inman students. Guilford County Schools, which runs a joint campaign, was also recognized for its support of both United Ways.

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The parking lot at United Way of Greensboro was filled with more than just cars this Halloween. Ghosts, dinosaurs and princesses of all ages were invited to join in a variety of spooky activities, including trick or treating from over 20 cars with trunks piled high with candy. The event was hosted by the United Way of Greater Greensboro Young Leaders, a group of active young professionals dedicated to community enrichment. In addition to the trick or treating, the Young Leaders organized a cupcake walk, a special sticker tattoo station and everybody’s favorite, bobbing for donuts!

The event, which was held Sunday from 2-5pm, was organized by dozens of volunteers and donations from local businesses like Alert Construction Remodeling & Repair & Maxie B’s. Over 300 people turned up to fill their bags with candy and take part in the festivities. One local mom commented “I’m so glad we stopped by, the kids had so much fun with this and the trunks look so cute!”

Each trunk was decorated based on a different theme, ranging from Disney princess to a haunted pirate ship. As they trick or treated, the kids were allowed to vote for their favorite trunk. This year’s winner was volunteer Melanie Crenshaw with her “Squishy, Slimy Halloween Special”, a concoction of different dishes that visitors were invited to dip their hands into.

The event was a big hit among both volunteers and families. Julia Cox, United Way Director of the Young Leaders, explains, “We really wanted to provide a safe and fun way for kids in Greensboro to celebrate Halloween this year. We really have to thank our volunteers from across the community and our member agencies. I think that the event did a lot to bring the community together. We are already planning to make next year’s “Trunk or Treat” even bigger!”

For questions about this event or about United Way of Greater Greensboro Young Leaders, please contact Julia Cox at julia.cox@unitedwaygso.com.

More Trunk or Treat photos on the Young Leaders Facebook page

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Activities included:
Spin it to Win it
Donate, spin and win!

Can it to Win it
Goal: Donate 1,000 cans to Veterans of Guilford County, Groceries on Wheels and/or Kidz.

Cook it to Win it
Crazy Chef Taste-Off 2010! The gentlemen of Deluxe provide samples of their favorite dish and dress as their favorite chef! A raffle also held.

Sell it to Win it
Participants donated gently used items or rented a selling table! Bake sale also held

We love to see photos and get news on campaign fun during your United Way of Greater Greensboro campaign!

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Cast your vote for Camp Weaver every day through November 29th!

The Y of Greensboro’s Camp Weaver has been voted in the top 5 finalists by Bimbo Bakeries USA (Arnold Breads)  for a $15,000 grant to build an organic garden. The 5 finalists are posted online at www.getingrained.com. Voting started on October 25th and you can vote through November 29th. Help Camp Weaver secure this grant so that they can support their healthy living initiative and give the kids a great new camp activity. Limit one(1) vote per person per email address per day.
Cast your vote for Camp Weaver every day through November 29th!

Camp Weaver is a program funded by United Way of Greater Greensboro and meets the objectives of Growing Successful Kids, our focus area on Education.

Learn more about our focus areas.

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Public is invited to attend presentation by NC Budget & Tax Center and NC Justice Center
on State Budget, Economic Forecast, and Issues Affecting Our Community on November 17

On November 17, the United Ways of Greater Greensboro, Greater High Point, and Forsyth County are partnering to bring a Legislative Briefing to the Triad. The program will focus on the impact of the economy on the non-profit sector and on working families, with a strong emphasis on health and human service and education programs. The North Carolina Budget & Tax Center will provide an update on the state budget.

Legislators from across the Triad have been invited to participate and several have already accepted the invitation. The recent election is expected to produce interesting and thought-provoking discussions and questions at this event.

The event will be held on Wednesday, November 17 from 10 am until noon at Cross Company, 4400 Piedmont Parkway, in Greensboro. The public is also invited to attend.

For more information please contact Barbara Frye at 899-0873 or barbara.frye@unitedwayhp.org.

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Check us out at the event, too!

Check out Tavis Smiley online.

Still haven’t registered? Register here!

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Young Leaders will host a special Halloween event for children in the greater Greensboro area. Starting at 2pm on Sunday, October 31^st, young leaders from the community will fill the United Way parking lot with cars that have trunks festively decorated and filled with candy. Kids will be invited to tour the lot and “trick or treat” at each of the cars.

Other activities present at the Trunk or Treat event include: face painting, carnival games, a “best decorated trunk” contest and an opportunity to learn more about child development-focused agencies within Greensboro that are supported by United Way. Costumes and decorations will be child friendly within a festive atmosphere.

Mary Margaret Hart, Co-Chair of Young Leader Volunteer events explains, “There is so much excitement out there in the community around this event.  I think it is going to be a huge hit with parents who are looking for a safe trick or treating option. Kids are going to love it because we’ve got everything you need for Halloween – costumes and lots of candy. So bring all of your little ghosts and goblins on the 31^st!”

If you are interested in volunteering your trunk or attending this event, please contact Julia Cox, United Way Leadership Giving Manager, at 336-378-5055 or email her at julia.cox@unitedwaygso.org.

For additional information on the United Way of Greater Greensboro Young Leaders and how you can get involved in this grassroots volunteer group, please visit: www.unitedwaygso.org/YL.

United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Young Leaders on Facebook

United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Young Leaders on Twitter

United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Young Leaders website

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United Ways in the Piedmont raised $37,505 during the second annual “LIVE UNITED. GIVE UNITED.” Telethon on October 13, 2010. WFMY News 2, WGHP FOX 8, and WXII 12 provided simultaneous programming that focused on meeting critical community needs through support for local United Way organizations from throughout the viewing areas. The telethon occurred from 5am – 9am on October 13 and viewers were urged by all three stations to call 2-1-1, United Way’s information and referral line, to submit pledges.

The total amount raised includes $15,000 from BB&T and United Guaranty, who each gave $7,500 in a dollar-for-dollar match to incent giving.

The event was intended to help give potential donors who may not be part of United Way’s more traditional workplace campaigns a chance to help their community, organizers said. They also emphasized that here is still much work to be before year-end to help local United ways throughout the Piedmont achieve individual fundraising goals.

“We are incredibly grateful for the partnership of all 3 of the Triad’s largest television stations,” said Bobby Smith, President of the United Way of Greater High Point. “Each of them demonstrates their commitment to our communities every day, but on October 13 they came together to help the region’s United Ways reach more people. That means we can help more people. The positive impact of the exposure they give us during the LIVE UNITED. GIVE UNITED. event is incalculable, and we are so appreciative.”

Additionally, the LIVE UNITED. GIVE UNITED. event served as an opportunity to familiarize the Piedmont community with 2-1-1, a United Way information and referral line that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. Free of charge, callers to 2-1-1 are provided referrals to needs that range from food, clothing, and shelter, to basic child care services and programs for senior citizens.

United Ways are asking community members to continue to make donations to close campaign gaps. Closing the fundraising gaps translates to helping more individuals who need assistance in the Piedmont Triad. For more information, you may contact your local United Way or visit www.unitedwaync.org and search on “find a United Way in your area” for a listing of all United Way organizations in North Carolina.

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Learn more about Thriving at 3, a United Way of Greater Greensboro initiative.

Check out photos of the first tricycle we gave away to one of our Thriving at 3 families, thanks to Novartis. It was much appreciated!

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Have a photo of yourself in your LIVE UNITED t-shirt? Show us that you just don’t wear the shirt, you live it. Post your photos to your Facebook profile and tag our page*, tweet your image to @unitedwaygso, or send it to aden.hailemariam@unitedwaygso.org and let us know where you were volunteering or celebrating if you can!

How do you live united?

By: Aden Hailemariam, Marketing & Communications at United Way of Greater Greensboro

*How to tag pages in Facebook.

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Over the past 28 years, UPS has donated an incredible $1 billion to improve lives and communities in partnership with United Way.  This summer marked that amazing milestone.  In celebration and as a special tribute to United Way and to all the UPS employee supporters, UPS has changed the paint scheme on David Ragan’s car for the race this Saturday.

NASCAR enthusiasts may already know that Ragan’s No. 6 UPS Ford will have the United Way logo prominent on the hood and back trunk of his car at the NASCAR Bank of America 500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway this Saturday, Oct. 16.  Ragan will also wear a special United Way helmet and fire suit that will be auctioned to benefit United Way Oct. 15-25, on eBay along with a fire suit, helmet and glove-set from Jamie McMurray.

Source: Vicki Elmore, United Way of North Carolina

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Should I attempt to get a full night’s sleep, take a nap, or ride it through sunrise?

Hm. I think I’ll at least be missing out on eight hours at this point. But, I’m too excited to sleep!

Tomorrow at 5AM we kickoff our Live United. Give United. telethon. It’ll be somewhat of a family affair.

The telethon will bring together United Ways from across the Piedmont with coverage from WFMY News 2, WGHP Fox 8 and WXII 12.

Learn more about who you can support by calling into the telethon.

This will be the second year that area United Ways have come together to focus on the importance of increasing donations and reaching campaign goals. There shall be hoopla. Be a part of it!

Build on what’s working in your community and help your local United Way reach it’s campaign goal by calling 2-1-1 tomorrow to make your pledge. When you call 2-1-1, you will be redirected to our telethon calling center in Greensboro. Tune into your local station to get insight on the telethon including live shots from the call center on-site at UWGG, updated telethon numbers and stories of people who have been positively affected by the programs that United Ways across the Piedmont help to fund. Plus, you’ll be working towards a pledge match: BB&T and United Guaranty have both generously agreed to match donors dollar for dollar up to $7,500.

Not a morning person…or a super-early morning person? Don’t fret; you can call 2-1-1 through 12 noon to make that pledge!

Ah. To be bright -eyed and bushy-tailed. Here’s to my green tea getting me through the morning.

By: Aden Hailemariam, Marketing & Communications at United Way of Greater Greensboro

There’s 9-1-1 ad there’s 4-1-1. Learn more about 2-1-1 here.

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LIVE UNITED. GIVE UNITED.

Greensboro, NC – On October 13, 2010, United Ways across the Piedmont Triad will partner with WFMY News 2, WGHP Fox 8, and WXII 12 to provide programming that will focus on the importance of increasing donations and reaching campaign goals in order to meet critical community needs. This will be the second year that this partnership has existed. The telethon will occur from 5-9 am and viewers are urged by all three stations to call 2-1-1 to submit pledges. While many companies are currently running workplace campaigns in the Piedmont Triad, LIVE UNITED. GIVE UNITED. seeks to target those who would like to give above and beyond their workplace campaigns or give a first-time gift. BB&T and United Guaranty have both generously agreed to match donors dollar for dollar up to $7,500.

The 11 benefiting United Ways include: United Way of Forsyth County, United Way of Greater High Point, United Way of Greater Greensboro, United Way of Alamance County, Davie County United Way, United Way of Rockingham County, United Way of Wilkes County, Yadkin County United Way, United Way of Henry County/Martinsville, United Way of Randolph County, and United Fund of Surry.

United Ways throughout the region are focusing on “What’s Working” in our community and are asking donors to assist in “Building on What’s Working” through United Way funded programs and initiatives that are achieving results.

Additionally, the event serves as an opportunity to familiarize the Piedmont community with 2-1-1, a 24/7 helpline that is available 365 days a year. Free of charge, callers are provided referrals to needs that range from food, clothing, and shelter to basic child care services. By dialing 2-1-1 on October 13, those who desire to pledge are routed to a call center at United Way of Greater Greensboro. Those who need help can call every day.

The event is a launch pad in moving individual United Way campaigns in the Piedmont closer to their goals, but there is still much work to be done in an effort  achieve individual fundraising goals. United Ways are asking community members to continue to give in order to close campaign gaps. Closing the fundraising gaps translates to helping more individuals who need assistance in the Piedmont Triad.

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The City/ County Employees Campaign kicked off its 2010 campaign season with two major events in September. The Greensboro Kickoff was held today, Wednesday, September 22 from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Governmental Plaza located at 300 West Washington Street in Greensboro, the Field Operations Main Assembly room at 401 Patton Avenue & the Department of Social Services located at 1203 Maple Street, also in Greensboro.  The High Point Kickoff will be held on Friday, September 24 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the Guilford County Courthouse Plaza, located at 501-505 E. Green Dr. in High Point and at the new Department Of Social Services building located at 325 E. Russell Drive, also in High Point.

Nonprofit agency representatives participating in the City/County campaign will be present to share information.  City and County employees will receive free donuts and coffee as they come into work. Donuts have been generously donated by Krispy Kreme Donuts (2401 Battleground Ave.) and Dunkin Donuts coffee will be served.

Despite the challenges, City and County employees face in the workplace, they are still steadfast in their efforts to support our community. Last year the campaign raised nearly $385,000. City and County Managers are committed to supporting programs that are literally “Life-Savers” in our community.

The public is welcome. United Way of Greater Greensboro is the managing organization for the City/County Employees Campaign.

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United Way of Greater Greensboro held their annual Kickoff Celebration today at Clara J. Peck Elementary School.

Campaign Chairman Mike Bumpass, President & CEO of GMA/First Point explained the goal is a 3% increase over last year’s adjusted base, or $264,000 new dollars.  “Here’s what we’re hearing from companies and individual donors: we think we can do what we did last year and are considering an increase above that.  We also have received some increases in corporate giving where there were decreases last year.  This gives us hope, but we still consider this a stretch goal.”

United Way believes this goal is necessary as unemployment rates continue to remain high, so it is important to help people who need immediate support and provide solutions to longer-term community problems as identified in the VOICES.CHOICES. Human Services Study conducted earlier this year.  The four issues of need and concern are: financial stability of individual and families, access to comprehensive healthcare services, successful school experiences for every child and nurturing children and youth for positive development.

“United Way invests in successful programs that help thousands of individuals,”said Otis Wilson, a community volunteer who chairs the fund distribution process for United Way dollars.  “No other organization in Greensboro is better able to recognize and respond to needs, evaluate programs, and make an impact as quickly and efficiently as United Way,” Mr. Wilson said.

To emphasize this point, United Way presented the successful results from 9 of their 66 funded programs.  They included:

• Black Child Development of Greensboro’s Spirit of Excellence

Result: 92% of the students who participated in the Great Leaps curriculum improved their reading by at least one grade level.

• Thriving at 3

Result: Thriving at 3’s direct services provider, the Center for New North Carolinians, reported that 75% of children served through the direct services program of Thriving 3 are developmentally on target.

• Communities In Schools of Greater Greensboro’s Success in Schools

Result: 100% of eligible students in the program received their diploma.

• Salvation Army of Greensboro’s Center of Hope Crisis Assistance

Result: 91% of clients in the long-term housing program found permanent, affordable housing and maintained if for over six months.

• Senior Resources of Guilford’s Community-Based & Volunteer Services

Result: 61% of the seniors in the Community Nutrition program reported that because of their participation in the program, they believed that their health has improved and they feel better.

• Reading Connections’ Adult Basic Literacy

Result: 100% of adult literacy students with a goal of gaining employment got a new job.

• Triad Health Project’s Direct Client Services

Result: 90% of the clients report that Triad Health Project’s Direct Services maximizes their well-being by providing consistent access to medication, education about the medication, and transportation to doctor’s appointments.

• Adult Center for Enrichment’s Adult Day Services

Result: 95% of participants had no increase in emergency care episode, exceeding their 72% target. 100% of participants report that Adult Day Services enriches their lives.

• Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Association’s Infant Toddler Early Intervention

Result: 100% of the 336 infants/children in the Infant Toddler Early Intervention program have increased/strengthened cognitive skills.

The backdrop of Peck Elementary School presents a clear example why United Way support is needed and how it’s making an impact.  The needs are great. 93% of the school children are on free or reduced lunch.  United Way responds to the immediate need by launching a backpack program, organized by United Way’s African American Leadership committee, nearby this summer and invests in the Success at Schools program, which is coming to Peck for the first time.  Jimmi Williams, Executive Director of Communities In Schools of Greater Greensboro comments, “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Peck Elementary to the CIS family of schools and programs. We look forward to great success at Peck with our Success at School after-school enrichment program in partnership with the United Way. And, we look forward to establishing a whole-school presence at Peck including health care services, reading tutorials and other resources as needed by children and families. Under the leadership of the dynamic Ms. Francine Mallory, Peck will become an outstanding CIS school site, and a wonderful example of school-community partnership.”

United Way has reorganized much of its volunteer fundraising structure to take advantage of more opportunities to grow the campaign.  Mike Bumpass has recruited a 28 member campaign cabinet that is target key areas of Greensboro, including the airport area, and new approaches to various groups of professionals. Large companies and major donors remain a critical base of support.  “I am especially proud of the team that has joined me in a commitment to do what is best for the community and do whatever’s possible to reach this goal,” said Mike Bumpass.

Other strategies to increase support include a Caring Card for every donor who gives $120 or more to United Way.  The donor will be entitled to year- long discounts at more than 50 area merchants in Greensboro and High Point.  New donors to the Cornerstone Society with a gift of $1,000 or more, will be eligible for Carolina Panthers Club Level tickets, thanks to a donation by an anonymous donor.

“Perhaps the most important incentive or reason to give is our increased effort to explain exactly where the money goes, one outstanding program at a time, and talk about the lives changed as a result,” said Keith Barsuhn United way President & CEO.  “We are prepared to show you how every dollar matters, and every dollar is critically needed.”

United Way of Greater Greensboro is a leadership organization that is fortunate to operate in a community that has a proven tradition of caring. United Way supports 66 programs and initiatives through 30 member agencies and partners that address critical community needs in the areas of Education, Income/Self-Sufficiency and Health.

Clara J. Peck Elementary School has a wonderfully diverse student population. 66 % of the students are African-America, 16% are Hispanic, 8 % are Caucasian and another 2.5% are Asian. The remaining 8 % is of other racial and ethnic backgrounds. Peck was recognized as being one of the top most improved schools in GCS over the past several years. Also, Peck was designated a Signature School of the Triad in 2002 and 2005.

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Follow Back to Football Friday tweets here with #footballfriday.

What’s an internal campaign? Well, just as companies across greater Greensboro have employee campaigns to raise money for their community through United Way, United Way staff have a campaign!

I’ve been catching in the news the events that local companies have as a part of their United Way employee campaigns. Talk about fun! I remember the first day I started at UWGG was the first day of the internal campaign–it was surreal! It was 9 in the morning and a staff meeting as the internal campaign committee dressed up, had games and skits as they hyped up their colleagues to kick off their own employee campaign.

This year our internal campaign theme is…football! Check out photos below of our break from last Friday’s staff meeting as three staff members competed to make it through an obstacle course and win by correctly answering a question about youth health and wellness. We’ve got a full schedule of events this month to kick off our internal campaign. What events does your employee campaign have on its schedule?

Obstacle course contestants were UWGG staff:

Keith Barsuhn, President and CEO

Jenn Gipp, Director of Tocqueville Societies

Gretchen O’Shay, Vice President of Donor Relations and Leadership Giving

By: Aden Hailemariam, Marketing & Communications at United Way of Greater Greensboro

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Evonik Stockhausen held a cookout fundraiser for their United Way Campaign at its Greensboro site on Wednesday, August 18 where nearly 100 employees, teachers, public officials, and friends attended.

Evonik employees cooked hot dogs and hamburgers for the group that included Greensboro’s Mayor Bill Knight, United Way’s Starlyn Crook, 18 teachers from Calvin Wiley Elementary School including Principal Dr. Shelia Gorham, 65 employees and others.

“The people of Greensboro and I appreciate the generous efforts of companies like Evonik Stockhausen,” said Greensboro Mayor Bill Knight. “Evonik continually gives back to the community through its United Way donations as well as its support of our educational institutions such as Wiley School. We need more giving companies such as Evonik to help residents during these difficult economic times.”

Dieter Bettinger, Greensboro site manager, noted Evonik Stockhausen employees strongly support the efforts of the United Way. Earlier this year, the site raised $1,460 in various events, which will be donated to United Way later this year.

“We are firmly committed to the residents of the Greensboro area and we are proud to support United Way’s exceptional efforts in our community,” Dieter added. “We encourage other businesses to join us and others in supporting the terrific work of the United Way. The United Way is an important safety net in Greensboro.”

The site cookout raised more than $630 during the one-hour event.

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The Greensboro UPS campaign kickoff was Thursday, July 15, 2010 and consisted of three rallies to drum up enthusiasm for the upcoming campaign. The rally was added to regular management meeting times and employees learned more about United Way of Greater Greensboro and the appreciation United Way and the community had for each employee’s gift. Speakers included United Way staff and partner agency representatives. UPS management also summarized UPS’s goals and expectations for the campaign.

Shoutout to Jeff York from Star Crook, Donor Relations Manager at UWGG. Jeff would also like to thank his UPS colleagues, Bill Hoffman, Jonathan Goodmon, Frank Farrar and Kaven Smith, for helping to make the rallies a great time with their coordination.

Representatives from UWGG member agencies as well Starlyn added to the excitement at the rallies. We passed out water, squeeze water bottles, doughnuts, balloons and fliers. Everyone was greeted as they came in to the building and and learned more about the UPS campaign kickoff–one of many in the history of UPS that has garnered commitments from employees to continue to Live United. Check out our Facebook album for some photos from the rallies last month at the Greensboro UPS hub.

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High Point’s UPS employees continue to Live United, as well. Last week the High Point UPS customer service center held a “Book and Bag” fundraiser for United Way.  This 100% profit fundraiser consisted of collecting hard and soft back books that were donated along with purses, duffle bags, clutches, backpacks, garment bags, briefcases, fanny packs, cross bodies, attaché cases and luggage.  The gently used merchandise was either bid upon by prospective customers or priced to move! This three day event generated over $550 for United Way. Center supervisor Nicole L’Argent is proud of all the work that the center employees put into making it a successful event!

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Where are you in North Carolina? Find your local United Way as fast as UPS can get that package to your door.

Learn more about what it means to Live United.

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Judy is currently as a board member and committee chairperson for United Way of Greater Greensboro. Even before embarking on her new responsibilities at Moses Cone Health System, Judy had been investing her time and interest into her community.

We appreciate the local residents who volunteer their time and expertise as they share their enthusiasm, interest and dedication to United Way of Greater Greensboro’s efforts in the Greensboro area.

Interested in volunteering? Check out the links below to learn more on the who, what, when and how on volunteering with us and throughout your community:

Reach out a hand to one and influence the condition of all.
Want to champion a cause or assume leadership on a particular issue?

Source: Moses Cone Hospital Gets New President (8/2/2010)

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2-1-1 is a national issue and this past weekend support for 2-1-1 made it’s way to The Huffington Post.

Read the article here: It’s Time to Pass the Calling for 2-1-1 Act.

United Way of Greater Greensboro shares the regional 2-1-1 service in order to offer fast, reliable and confidential referral to services that you are looking for.

Have a question about services available in your area? Don’t get lost in the numbers! 2-1-1 is easy! Call 2-1-1 any time 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to link to vital services in your area.

Learn more about 2-1-1 in North Carolina.

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Claremont Courts Family Fun Day (June 2010)

Home Run for Homelessness and Thriving at 3 Kids Carnival (May 2010)

Thriving at 3 Warm Winter Celebration (December 2009)

Learn more about Thriving at 3, a United Way of Greater Greensboro initiative.

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2^nd Annual Home for the Summer Food Drive

Collections run from Monday, June 7^th through Friday, June 18^th.

Many families rely on school meals as the nutrition source for their children during school months.  But what about during the summer when children are at home? Help us help children in need of that vital nutrition as we continue to grow successful kids.

Collected food can be dropped off Monday – Friday from 11 am to 5 pm

at the Greensboro Jaycees office, 401 North Greene Street.

All are welcome to participate in this food drive and in the collection sorting party!

Collection Sorting Party, Saturday June 19th
9am – 12 noon
Greensboro Jaycees Office – 401 North Greene Street

Contact:

Samantha Lyons Kittrell, Women’s Leadership Volunteer Opportunities Chair at

(336) 358-8121/slyonskittrell@hotmail.com

or Carley Williams

at (336) 378-5055/carley.williams@unitedwaygso.org with questions.

Click here for a link to the event flyer.

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Learn more about the event, Voices. Choices. results, and community investments for the future in Greensboro.

(5/19/2010) United Way of Greater Greensboro Celebrates Achievements with 300 Supporters

(5/19/2010) United Way of Greater Greensboro Announces Community Results for Voices. Choices. Human Services Study

(5/20/2010) “When the United Way of Greater Greensboro questioned where it should focus its energy and dollars in the coming years, it turned to the city’s residents for the answer.”

Visit our News & Press page for an updated list of press releases and other news!

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Hi, all! We are well into National Volunteer Week and we’d like to share a video with you to celebrate the week!

Watch it here!

Our tagline is Give. Advocate. Volunteer. The tagline is a call to action that many take on in the spirit achieving our vision here at United Way of Greater Greensboro to “LIVE UNITED in a thriving community.”

Each action verb is in itself a call to action. Each seems distinct but they most often connect. When you give, you can give money, time, and your energy and dedication to a cause. Find what fits for you. At this time in your life, it may be one thing or a combination of ways to impact the community.

You’ve volunteered or you’ve started the search to volunteer. During this week and all of the other weeks of the year, your intentions, actions, and dedication are appreciated.

By: Aden Hailemariam, Marketing & Communications at United Way of Greater Greensboro

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United Way of Greater Greensboro’s African American Leadership Presents Distinguished Service Awards

On March 20, 2010, African American Leadership (AAL) of United Way of Greater Greensboro held its second annual Distinguished Service Awards Banquet. Approximately 175 attendees gathered at the NC A&T Alumni-Foundation Events Center to recognize individuals and community organizations that performed outstanding volunteer activities for nonprofit and charitable organizations aimed at improving the general welfare of the African-American community. In keeping with United Way of Greater Greensboro’s priorities, awards were presented in the categories of Education, Health, and Self Sufficiency.

Hank Wall, Executive Director of Brothers Organized to Save Others (BOTSO) received the award in Education. Hank has worked with African American Males in both Greensboro and High Point since 1975, mentoring them to stay in school, instilling discipline and self respect. He has formed strategic partnerships with agencies and organizations such as Communities in Schools, Kiwanis, Junior League, etc.“ In 2009 BOTSO became a part of Win-Win Resolutions, a non-profit organization that teaches youth critical negotiation and conflict resolution skills.”

Karen Dyer, President of the Greensboro chapter of The Links, received the award in Health. The Links has developed the “Go Healthy Challenge Program” which focuses on childhood obesity and nutrition. This program is administered through the Hayes-Taylor YMCA, and targets children ages 8-16 and their parents.

Amos Quick, Executive Director, Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club, received the award in Self-Sufficiency, aligning with the United Way focus on income. Amos has worked tirelessly to ensure that children are given the tools needed to overcome obstacles. His organization currently serves approximately 1400 children annually, providing them not only with a safe place to socialize after school, but also instilling (in them) critical character development, literacy and life skills.

This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Ms. Nettie Coad, community organizer and Executive Director of the Partnership Project. Ms. Coad is a longtime advocate of equitable housing and affordable healthcare for the underserved and underrepresented citizens in the community. Her efforts to revitalize the Southside community led to the naming of the Nettie Coad apartment complex on Martin Luther King Drive.

African American Leadership engages donors in the work of United Way of Greater Greensboro. United Way addresses critical community needs in the areas of Education, Income (Self Sufficiency) and Health by delivering 61 programs through 30 partner agencies. United Way also supports and provides leadership to three strategic initiatives including Thriving at Three, Partners Ending Homelessness and  2-1-1, a 24/7 referral line that operates 365 days a year.

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As part of its #AmericaWants campaign, USA TODAY is offering a full-page full-color ad (valued at $189,000) to the nonprofit that generates the most Tweets between now and Friday, April 16.  If you want to help, Tweet this to all your contacts and urge them to do the same: #AmericaWants United Way to get a full-page ad in USA TODAY. Please note: Use “United Way,” not a local United Way name, otherwise your Tweets won’t add up. For more information, go to the #AmericaWants website.

Source: United Way Worldwide

By: Aden Hailemariam, Marketing & Communications at United Way of Greater Greensboro

UPDATE: Check out more info here on the USA Today site!

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What’s a Blitz?

City of Greensboro info on Blitz events.

City of Greensboro Census Blitz tracts.

City of Greensboro Complete Count Committee Census 2010.

Google search for census blitz greensboro.

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Census Distribution in English & Arabic

4930 Mary St.

Friday, April 9^th

11am-5pm

Host: Islamic Center of the Triad

Farmer’s Market

501 Yanceyville St.

8am-12pm

Host: Bethel AME Church, A&T Case students

Interactive Resources

Community Cookout

3015 E. Bessemer Ave.

11am-2pm

Host: IRC, Genesis Church & Erwin Montessori

Eastside Community Center

Fish Fry/Hot Dog Supper

429 Gillespie St.

10am-3pm

Host: Mary Stamey, Eastside Park Community Center

Community Meet-N-Greet Potluck

1214 Grove St. (the HIVE)

5pm-7pm

Host: Karen M. & Chalene P. (That’s Chalene!)

St. Philip AME Zion Church