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United Way of Greater Greensboro Raises $11.1 Million for Community Impact

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(Greensboro, NC – April 14, 2015) – “Greensboro citizens have made their voices heard through their generosity and compassion for this community,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “We hear you loud and clear: We are kicking poverty out.”

 
United Way of Greater Greensboro is on a long-term journey to create positive community impact by breaking the cycle of poverty in Greensboro. It closed its 2014-15 campaign on March 31, 2015 and is proud to announce its campaign total of $11,100,000 million, marking the second year in a row of an increasing campaign for the organization. United Way campaign funds are invested locally in Greater Greensboro to support high-quality human service programs and initiatives targeted towards children, adults, and families.
“Increasing rates of poverty, financial instability in our families, barriers to success for our young people—these are real challenges we face,” says Gethers-Clark. “When we combine our resources, time and talent, we have the power to direct the future of Greensboro.    More than $11 million is proof that Greensboro believes in a bright future.”
 
With the combined power of caring citizens, thoughtful community partnerships, and corporate support, United Way of Greater Greensboro has served the community for 93 years with the goal of improving the quality of life.
 “When we began this campaign, we set out with the intent to engage new corporate leaders and donors in the critical work of United Way,” says Jason Bohrer, 2014-15 United Way of Greater Greensboro campaign chairperson and president and partner at management consulting firm Newbold Advisors.  “We are thankful to all those who answered our call, who opened their door to us to hear the new story of United Way, and who made a commitment to invest in this great community.”
United Way brings a high level of due diligence, responsibility and community voice to its work. When United Way invests in vital human services throughout Greater Greensboro, it is working to advance partnering programs and initiatives toward success. When it leverages the power of community volunteers and advocates, it is fostering strong community leaders.
2014-15 UNITED WAY CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS
 
More than 500 organizations participated in and more than 15,000 individuals donated to this year’s United Way campaign. More than 1,400 donors gave at a leadership level of $1,000 or more to support United Way’s work in Greater Greensboro.
2014 Spirit of North Carolina Awards
The Spirit of North Carolina Awards for Campaign Excellence, sponsored by the United Way of North Carolina, recognizes outstanding commitment and support to North Carolina communities through local United Way involvement. Organizations and companies were judged on criteria including leadership giving, volunteerism, employee participation and giving levels, year-round education, corporate support, incentive programs, and campaign rallies just to name a few. In Greensboro, we are honored to celebrate several Spirit of North Carolina award recipients who go above and beyond to support their community.
–       City of Greensboro and Guilford County
–       E.P. Pearce Elementary School
–       Guilford County Human Resources Department
–       Guilford County Schools
–       VF Corporation
United Way Launched its First Family Success Center United Way of Greater Greensboro, with its lead partner Guilford Child Development, is driving the effort to implement Greensboro’s first Family Success Center to provide solutions that reduce poverty in Greensboro neighborhoods. The Family Success Center will begin as an 18-month pilot in zip code 27406 that will offer integrated, place-based services to help meet the needs of the entire family with the goal that each family enters the path toward self-sufficiency.  The new system views the family as a unit and plans to serve every member of the household. The primary features of the system include family engagement, client input, testing and learning, and increasing flexible access to services. The ultimate goals are to increase per capita income for low-income neighborhoods, improve community health, and enhance school readiness (which will help ensure children graduate from high school). During the next 36 months, United Way will launch additional Family Success Centers in at least three other zip codes in Greensboro.Visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org for all upcoming events, news, and opportunities to give, advocate and volunteer.# # #

LIVE UNITED

United Way of Greater Greensboro makes investments in our community to serve those in need so that all individuals and families can succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.

Volunteer During United Way Week of Caring

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Week of Caring April 13-18, 2015

Greensboro, North Carolina

Spring into action with United Way by supporting the community you live and work in through volunteerism. National Volunteer Week starts April 13 and United Way of Greater Greensboro is hosting a Week of Caring to join the fun! Together, we will make a lasting and positive difference in the lives of others in our community.

Check out the volunteer projects below and register to volunteer during United Way’s Week of Caring.

 

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April 1-15  Book Drive

Did you know that children from low-income households can lose two or more months of reading achievement over the summer months? This is due in part to not having books at home to read. You can help us fight summer learning loss this summer by getting more books in the hands of children who need them. Donate new and gently used books for Pre-K through 12th grade students; donations will be received April 1-15 at United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville St., Greensboro, from 9:00am-5:00pm daily. Book donations will be distributed to children and families during Guilford County Schools’ Family Fun Day hosted by Guilford Parent Academy. We also need help cleaning, sorting and labeling the books on Friday, April 17.

 

April 13-17 Storytime Packs

Create and build fun reading activities for parents and children to engage and learn together. Storytime Packs include a book and related activity. As parents read the book with their children, they can learn and comprehend more with the hands on activity. This volunteer project is perfect for small to large groups in workplaces, places of worship, schools and more and can be completed on your own time at your own location! See the Storytime Pack brochure to learn more about this unique project!

 

April 14 – Club Connect Reading Oasis 

(A volunteer project for Women’s Leadership Council Step-Up members)

Help give children at Wiley Elementary a love of reading through a new Club Connect Reading Oasis filled with hundreds of NEW books for the school. This project includes assembling shelving units, sorting and stamping books, moving furniture and more.

 

April 15 – YMCA Camp Weaver Beautification Projects 

Don’t mind getting your hands dirty? Lend a helping hand to prep and prepare the grounds for another fun and enriching summer session at YMCA’s Camp Weaver. This is a great way to help give children in our community a meaningful summer camp experience, and a beautiful setting to enjoy it in. Great for small or large groups. Up to 60 volunteers needed.

 

April 18 – Human Race 

Get ready for a little bit of fitness and a whole lot of fun with United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Human Race team. Each year, The Volunteer Center of Greensboro hosts The Human Race to raise funds for nonprofits throughout our community. Join our team and give back with each step! Learn more and sign-up here.

 

Not able to join us during Week of Caring? Have no fear–volunteering happens all year! Check out this great opportunity coming up at the end of April.

April 24 – Thriving at 3 Raising A Reader Celebration

Volunteer during the annual celebration Thriving at 3 Celebration at Greensboro’s Central Library. This annual event gathers children and their families to celebrate the gains in children’s early literacy skills and connect families to library resources to encourage fun and learning. SIGN UP HERE >>

United Way of Greater Greensboro, Guilford Child Development Partner To Break Cycle of Poverty

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NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

CONTACT
Dana Carter
United Way of Greater Greensboro
(p) 336-378-6617
(e) dana.carter@unitedwaygso.org

Pilot Family Success Center For Neighborhoods in 27406 

(Greensboro, NC – March 9, 2015) — United Way of Greater Greensboro, with its lead partner Guilford Child Development, is driving the effort to implement Greensboro’s first Family Success Center to provide solutions that reduce poverty in Greensboro neighborhoods.

“Job placement and achieving family financial stability for low income families, the major objectives of the Family Success Center, may represent the two most difficult challenges in the field of health and human services,” says Robin Britt, Executive Director of Guilford Child Development. “Our goal is to achieve ‘systems change’ by collaborating with a broad array of agencies to align services, by removing barriers, and by empowering families to make progress toward self sufficiency.”

The Family Success Center pilot follows United Way of Greater Greensboro’s announcement that it will focus its work on breaking the cycle of poverty for the next decade and more. Guilford Child Development was chosen as the lead partner for Family Success Center for its expertise in helping children and families reach their full potential. Guilford Child Development operates Head Start programs that serve children ages zero to five and enhance early child development while assisting families create the strong educational foundation necessary to be successful in school and in life. By federal definition Head Start participants fall at or under 100% of the family federal poverty line ($24,250 for a family of four). Greensboro currently struggles with a 20% poverty rate, a number that has seen steady increase since 2008.

“Greensboro has great human service organizations currently addressing issues related to poverty,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “Our intention is to create a new system of collaboration between nonprofit, government and businesses that works together to provide solutions for all members of a family. The system will deliver wrap around services that embrace new ideas for/from clients and implement known human service techniques that work. Members of the neighborhood pilot will be accountable for their success that leads to financial independence. When people feel successful, the community is successful.”

The Family Success Center will begin as an 18-month pilot in zip code 27406 that will offer integrated, place-based services to help meet the needs of the entire family with the goal that each family enters the path toward self-sufficiency. The new system views the family as a unit and plans to serve every member of the household. The primary features of the system include family engagement, client input, testing and learning, and increasing flexible access to services. The ultimate goals are to increase per capita income for low-income neighborhoods, improve community health, and enhance school readiness (which will help ensure children graduate from high school). During the next 36 months, United Way of Greater Greensboro will lead the development of Family Success Centers in at least three other zip codes in Greensboro.

Families currently enrolled in Guilford Child Development programs in zip code 27406 are being given the opportunity to opt-in to the pilot. Up to 100 families will work through the 18-month pilot to develop their own self-sufficiency plan which will be supported through workshops, trainings, and individual coaching sessions.

“Integrated servicing is not a new concept, but it’s new to Greensboro in this form,” says Frank McCain, vice president of community investment and impact at United Way of Greater Greensboro. “After benchmarking similar programs from San Francisco to Chicago and even neighboring Winston-Salem, we know this type of deep collaboration is a monumental change to how we have previously addressed poverty in Greensboro; a change in the right direction.”

The Family Success Center will officially kick-off on Thursday, March 26 where more than a dozen additional community partners will be announced.

# # #

United Way of Greater Greensboro makes investments in our community to serve those in need so that all individuals and families can succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.

Spirit of North Carolina Award Recipients Announced by United Way of North Carolina, Greensboro Celebrates Five Honorees

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(Greensboro, NC – February 19, 2015) – On an annual basis, United Way of North Carolina recognizes and awards extraordinary companies and organizations that have demonstrated commitment and support to their community through partnerships and engagement with local United Ways. This year, United Way of Greater Greensboro is thrilled to recognize five recipients of this prestigious award in our area.

VF Corporation
Outstanding Business Campaign 1001-1500 Employees
Guilford County Human Resources Department
Outstanding City/County Municipality up to 50 Employees
City of Greensboro and Guilford County Employee Campaign
Outstanding City/County Municipality 5001+ Employees
E.P. Pearce Elementary School
Outstanding School Campaign 51-100 Employees
Guilford County Schools
Outstanding School Campaigns 5001+ Employees

“It is through the generosity and compassion expressed by our donors and volunteers that we are able to impact lives,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, president and CEO at United Way of Greater Greensboro. “The organizations we honor with Spirit of North Carolina awards have made a stand as philanthropic leaders in Greensboro and are shining examples of the power of love for mankind.”

It’s more than just about the dollars raised to support initiatives and programs that affect community change, it’s working together to tackle the hard issues communities face and build long-term solutions.

Businesses, professional and non-profit organizations, governmental entities, healthcare and educational institutions – large and small – are nominated to receive this award because they are champions of change, raise their voice to find the good in the community, volunteer their time and expertise, and invest resources. Hats off to all nominees and winners.

A team of 20 United Way leaders from across the state judged 75 outstanding applications with 42 selected as winners. Seven Standards of Excellence are the criteria on which applications are judged, some of which include volunteer culture, partnership with community to raise awareness of needs and foster a spirit of giving, leadership involvement, and campaign coordination. Awards were presented to the winning companies during the United Way of North Carolina’s Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon on Friday, February 13, 2015 in Pinehurst, North Carolina.

# # #
United Way of Greater Greensboro makes investments in our community to serve those in need so that all individuals and families can succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.

United Way of Greater Greensboro, Community Partners Offer Free Tax Preparation in Greater Greensboro

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(Greensboro, NC – February 10, 2015) – It’s tax season and there is a lot to know. United Way of Greater Greensboro is helping individuals and families access free tax preparation services available in our community to keep and grow their money.
“Our community’s free tax preparation services will help many families get Earned Income Tax Credit and the maximum refund they’re due,” says Frank McCain, vice president of community investment and impact at United Way of Greater Greensboro. “This is money they can save or use to pay off bills, help buy that car to get to work or contribute to a down payment on a home.”
FREE TAX ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE IN GREENSBORO

If your household earned $60,000 or less in 2014, you qualify for free tax preparation. United Way has partnered with many local organizations to provide free tax preparation services for low- to moderate-income households in the Greater Greensboro area.
There are TWO KINDS of free tax assistance.
1. In-person Tax Preparation and Filing: Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) offers IRS-trained volunteers to prepare taxes for people with a household income of $53,000 or less in 2014.
See the list of VITA locations and times in Greater Greensboro.
Taxpayers should bring to their appointment:
a. Any tax documents such as forms W-2, 1099, or 1098.
b. Social Security cards or ITIN letters for ALL persons on your tax return. If you don’t have the original Social Security card available, a photocopy of the card is acceptable, or an official government letter with proof of the Social Security number for the individual. The volunteer must see the document. You cannot just tell them the number from memory–no exceptions.
c. Picture ID (such as valid driver’s license) for you and, if you are filing jointly with your spouse, a photo ID for your spouse as well.
d. For direct deposit of your refund, you must have proof of financial institution information (like a blank check).
e. Not required but a good idea is to have a copy of your previous year tax return.
2. Online Tax Preparation: Individuals in households earning up to $60,000 can file their returns for themselves online at www.MyFreeTaxes.com, provided by H&R Block in cooperation with the Walmart Foundation, Goodwill Industries International, National Disability Institute, and United Way Worldwide. Taxpayers filing online have access to tax law experts through online chat or a toll-free phone number. This is a good option for people who have relatively simple returns, confidence in using the Internet, and a desire to be able to file their own taxes independently.
UNITED WAY’S FAMILY ECONOMIC SUCCESS DAY – Friday, February 27
​
United Way and BB&T have teamed up to offer free in-person tax preparation services, financial management workshops, and free credit reports. Learn more at www.unitedwaygso.org

EITC COULD MEAN MORE MONEY IN THE BANK.
The IRS estimates that one in five eligible workers do not get the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) they have earned. United Way wants everyone who is eligible for the credit to receive it. If you earned less than $52,427 from wages or running a business or farm, see if you qualify for EITC.

EITC is designed to “make work pay,” by supplementing eligible workers’ earnings with additional income. The amount of the credit varies depending on filing status, the number of qualifying children, if any, and the amount of earnings. This money not only helps workers and their families, but the communities in which they live. On average, EITC adds $2,400 to working families’ refunds. Receive general guidance about EITC by calling MyFreeTaxes at 1-855-MY-TX-HELP (1-855-698-9435).
The 2015 Greater Greensboro Free Tax Prep Coalition includes: BB&T Bank, City of Greensboro, Greensboro Housing Authority, Guilford Child Development, Housing Consultants Group, Internal Revenue Service – Stakeholder Partnerships, Education and Communication (SPEC), Jamestown Public Library, Mt. Zion Baptist Church, North Carolina A&T State University, Piedmont Health Services and Sickle Cell Agency, Senior Resources of Guilford, Shepherd’s Center, The Arc of Greensboro, The Volunteer Center of Greensboro, True Salvation Outreach Ministry, United Way of Greater Greensboro, and YWCA of Greensboro.
# # #
United Way of Greater Greensboro makes investments in our community to serve those in need so that all individuals and families can succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.

City of Greensboro accepts White House challenge, partners with United Way of Greater Greensboro to improve outcomes for young people

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(Greensboro, NC – January 28, 2015) — The City of Greensboro has proudly accepted the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) Community Challenge launched by President Obama in 2014. The MBK initiative aims to improve life outcomes for all young people, including boys and young men of color, and to ensure that all youth can achieve their full potential, regardless of the circumstances into which they are born.

“This program provides a foundation to use to make a positive difference in the lives of young people in our community,” says Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan. “We need to ensure that young people in Greensboro are cared for, loved, and encouraged so that they can grow up to live successful lives and continue to make our city special, diverse, and vibrant.”

The initiative aims to bring together government, law enforcement, business, non-profit, philanthropic, faith, and community leaders around shared goals for young people in this country. Mayors, Tribal leaders, town and county executives are encouraged to build and execute comprehensive strategies that ensure:

All children enter school cognitively, physically, socially, and emotionally prepared;
All children read at grade level by third grade;
All young people graduate from high school;
All young people complete post-secondary education or training;
All youth out of school are employed; and
All young people are safe from violent crime.

The City of Greensboro will partner with United Way of Greater Greensboro to build and execute a plan to implement coherent cradle-to-college-and-career strategies aimed at improving life outcomes for all young people, consistent with the goals and recommendations of the White House’s MBK Task Force’s May, 2014 report.

“Too many young people right here in Greensboro lack sufficient support to succeed in school and in life,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “As a result, we see increased high school drop-out rates and increased rates of poverty in these young people. Each of us has the power to truly impact the future for these kids by simply being a caring adult in their life.”

Individuals interested in getting involved with My Brother’s Keeper are encouraged to sign up as mentors in their communities. Individuals can find mentoring opportunities through United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Mentoring Matters Initiative at www.UnitedWayGSO.org/mentor. Mentoring opportunities throughout the country can be found at WH.gov/mybrotherskeeper.

United Way of Greater Greensboro currently supports and operates programs and initiatives that work to improve educational success outcomes for children and families in our community including Thriving at 3 and Mentoring Matters.

Greensboro joins nearly 140 other MBK communities and tribal nations across the country including Durham, N.C.

# # #

About the City of Greensboro

The City works with the community to improve the quality of life for residents through inclusion, diversity, and trust. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a professional staff of 3,000 employees who maintain the values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City is governed by a council-manager form of government with a mayor and eight council members. For more information on the City, visit www.greensboro-nc.gov or call 336-373-CITY (2489).

Family Economic Success Day Feb 27. Offers Free Tax Preparation, Credit Reports

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NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Dana Z. Carter
United Way of Greater Greensboro
Phone: 336-378-6617
dana.carter@unitedwaygso.org

Sponsored by BB&T Bank and hosted by United Way of Greater Greensboro
(Greensboro, NC – January 27, 2015) – For those living paycheck to paycheck, on low to moderate income, earning, keeping, and growing one’s income is critical to financial success. United Way of Greater Greensboro knows the importance of a family’s financial health and has teamed up with BB&T Bank to host its second annual Family Economic Success Day, Friday, February 27, 2015.
Family Economic Success Day will offer free income tax preparation and filing services by IRS-certified volunteer income tax preparers, as well as information and instruction on financial topics. Free tax preparation is available to those whose households earned $53,000 or less in 2014. The BB&T Bus will be parked at United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville, and will serve as a VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) site for the day. Plus, BB&T will be offering free credit reports to those who qualify. Appointments preferred.
“A family’s financial stability could depend on the difference of keeping $200 or more in the bank instead of paying to have your taxes prepared and filed,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, CEO and president of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “United Way offers free tax preparation services because we support the financial health of families. For those straddling the poverty line, this service is invaluable.”
WHAT: Family Economic Success Day
hosted by United Way of Greater Greensboro and sponsored by BB&T
WHEN: Friday, February 27, 2015, 9:00am-6:00pm – last appointments available at 5:00pm.
WHERE: United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro, NC 27405
To make an appointment for free tax preparation at Family Economic Success Day on February 27, please call Senior Resources of Guilford’s SeniorLine at 336-333-6981, United Way’s contracted VITA coordinator managing scheduling. To find out about other days and locations for free tax appointments, call 211.
Workshops during the day include:
10:00am: “Ducks in a Row: Planning for the Future as We Age”, The Elderlaw Firm
12:15pm: “Money and Me: Habits and Attitudes,” Housing Consultants Group
2:00pm: “Financial Solutions,” BB&T Bank
3:30pm: “Scoring with Money: Achieving Goals on a Shoestring Budget,” HandUp Homeownership Initiative
Workshops are open to the public, at any income level, not only people getting their taxes done. For questions about workshops, contact Sarah Glover at sarah.glover@unitedwaygso.org or 336-378-5036.
WHO QUALIFIES for FREE TAX PREPARATION: Households earning $53,000 or less in 2014 qualify for free tax preparation and credit reports on this day. There will also be a computer kiosk available for taxpayers who want to prepare their own taxes online through MyFreeTaxes.com, and the income threshold for that is $60,000.
IMPORTANT! WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING: To receive free tax preparation services, you must bring with you a photo ID for all adults in the household, all W2s and tax documents, and actual social security cards or proof of ITIN numbers for every person in the household.
SPONSORED BY: United Way of Greater Greensboro, BB&T Bank, the IRS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) program, and Senior Resources of Guilford
VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED: United Way is staffing volunteers to help with the Family Economic Success Day. If you or your community group are interested in serving as volunteers on February 27, please contact Radiah Pinckney at United Way of Greater Greensboro: 336-378-6606 or radiah.pinckney@unitedwaygso.org for more information.
PAPER DONATIONS NEEDED: United Way is asking for donations of 8-1/2”x11” white paper to support the VITA program throughout the tax season. If you would like to donate, please contact Julie Longmire at 336-378-5023 or Julie.longmire@unitedwaygso.org.
United Way of Greater Greensboro is leading Greensboro’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for the second year in row. VITA sites are available throughout the Greater Greensboro area now through April 11 and can be found by visiting NC211.org or dialing 211. Alternative to VITA, those interested in preparing their own taxes for free online and have a household income of $60,000 or less can visit www.myfreetaxes.com.
# # #
LIVE UNITED
United Way of Greater Greensboro makes investments in our community to serve those in need so that all individuals and families can succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.

MyFreeTaxes.com

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You could save $200 or more right now by filing your federal and state income taxes for free. Discover how easy it is to file your taxes:

  • Online at MyFreeTaxes.com, powered by H&R Block. This is a great option if you earn $60,000 or less and can easily use the internet.*NOTE:All MyFreeTaxes.com users can call 1-855-MY-TX-HELP (1-855-698-9435) 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 $53,000 or less. Call 2-1-1 or visit MyFreeTaxes.com and click “File in Person” to find free tax filing in your area.

We’ve teamed up with BB&T for FAMILY ECONOMIC SUCCESS DAY on Friday, February 27 to offer free income tax preparation. LEARN MORE.

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.

Powered by the Walmart Foundation  — in cooperation with Goodwill Industries International, National Disability Institute, and United Way Worldwide — the MyFreeTaxes Partnership’s online and in-person tax preparation and filing services have helped 4.5 million families claim nearly $6 billion in tax credits and refunds since 2009. Tax filing software is provided by H&R Block.

Meet the New Young Leaders Cabinet!

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With the relaunch and focus to elevate United Way Young Leaders even more, a new Cabinet has been assembled to lead the group. These exceptional young professionals come from diverse backgrounds and bring tremendous passion, energy and commitment to serving others. Please join us in welcoming this new leadership!

daniel

Daniel Englebretson, Chair

Daniel Englebretson is the Digital Marketing Manager for Gilbarco Veeder-Root, an operating company of Danaher Corporation.  As the digital marketing leader at Gilbarco Veeder-Root, Daniel is responsible for the development and execution of all digital marketing strategies for Gilbarco North America and Gasboy North America.  Daniel received his B.S. in Marketing and Economics in 2009, and is planning to complete an MBA in Analytics in

2015. In his free time, Daniel volunteers with the United Way of Greater Greensboro as serves as Chair for the Young Leaders affinity group, and he engages in a variety of consulting, public speaking, and volunteer opportunities.  On the weekends you are most likely to find Daniel preparing his car for the next race event.

 

 

Colleen-Murray-headshot-237x300Colleen Murray, Vice Chair

Hello United Way! My name is Colleen Murray, and I am privileged to be serving as the Young Leader’s cabinet vice chair for 2014-2015. At VF Jeanswear, I’m the Instore Marketing Coordinator for Mass accounts, as well as an ambassador for the United Way Annual Giving Campaign.  I am also currently perusing a Masters of Business Administration at the UNCG Bryan School of Business evening program. My involvement with United Way in 2013 with the Women’s Leadership Handbags for Hope event and staff really inspired me to give more in any way possible. Giving to United Way, I believe, is the best possible way to directly impact the greater Greensboro community, and support all the local organizations that are aligned with the United Way’s mission of ending the cycle of poverty. And being a part of the Young Leader’s team, I am able to go beyond the monetary involvement, but also give of my time to the commitment of the organization. I look forward to all the tremendous work that Young Leaders has in store for the upcoming year, and continuing to spreading the United Way mission to the community.

 Tana Barnes

Tana-Barnes-headshot-259x300
My name is Tana Barnes and I am currently a student at UNCG in the post-baccalaureate certificate program for Nonprofit Management in the Public Affairs department. My passion is philanthropy and I am looking forward to building a career in the nonprofit sector. I joined Young Leaders to continue my philanthropic journey in life. I believe through the connections made, professional tools received and the opportunities to help those in need in our Greensboro community will provide me with the foundation to impact our community in a positive way! I believe every person should have the opportunity to give in some type of capacity, and I believe Young Leaders provides that avenue through volunteering, advocating and giving.

 

 

Christopher Bass

ChrisBass-Headshot-269x300Christopher Bass is the Global Marketing Director of International Textile Group (ITG). His key role and responsibility include developing ITG’s marketing strategy in North America, Asia, & Europe. During Christopher’s early years he was blessed by mentors and programs to help with his advancement. He is passionate about community development, and inspired by today’s youth. He joined Young Leaders to become a voice for his community in one of the largest outreach organizations in the nation.

 

 

 

 

 

Haithcock2-300x208Keyshia Haithcock

I am Keyshia T. Haithcock, proud alum of Bennett College where I studied Piano Performance, Visual Art, and Sociology.  Currently, I am the Program Services Coordinator and Development Director at Black Child Development Institute of Greensboro by day, and am a MPA student at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro by night!  And with the time left, I sing and play piano for Cathedral of His Glory, a community-based church.  Working for a local nonprofit organization, which is also a United Way agency, I have seen the impact United Way makes on the community and am honored to be a part of that change, both as a donor and as a professional! I joined United Way Young Leaders for networking opportunities with other young professionals who also have a heart for service, and a passion for improving the quality of life in this community. Also, I have a love of dogs.

 

Megan-Millard-headshot-178x300Megan Millard

Hi! My name is Megan Millard and I moved to the Greensboro area about a year ago for work at Procter & Gamble’s manufacturing site. I am excited to join the United Way Young Leaders as Membership Co-Chair to engage Greensboro’s next generation of leaders in making our community a better place for all! I am incredibly grateful for the blessings in my life and I recognize the many people who have influenced my life for the better, and I love to give back in any way possible so that I can hopefully influence someone else’s life in a similar way.

 

 

 

 

Steve-cropped-300x233Steven Overcash

I am a Credit Analyst in the Business Banking Group for Wells Fargo Bank in Greensboro, NC. I am also in my 2nd year of the UNC-Greensboro Bryan School MBA program. My wife Meredith and I have an 8-month old daughter named Charlotte. I have decided to give more of my time back to the community by volunteering with the United Way. I give my time to help strengthen our community, to help make a difference, and to help keep improving myself as a person. I chose Young Leader’s of United Way for the great opportunities that it provides. Not only does it provide a platform to help get involved in multiple facets but also provides a great networking opportunity to meet other Young Leader’s in the Greater Greensboro area and beyond.

 

Jenna Willingham

Jenna-Willingham-headshot-210x300My name is Jenna Willingham. I began my career 2 ½ years ago here in Greensboro in healthcare leadership and have since completed a two-year administrative fellowship with Cone Health.  I am a Project Manager with Triad HealthCare Network managing a portfolio of care transformation projects that the ACO undertakes. I give to United Way because I believe that there is strength in numbers when it comes to tackling big challenges head-on. I know this first hand after serving as a UWGG Loaned Executive last year that this team joins my investment with others, making each gift more impactful than before. For givers, advocates, and volunteers, United Way Young Leaders is that platform that unites me with like-minded peers who desire to ‘be the change.’ We want to equip rising leaders with perspective, development, and a heart of servitude. I’m proud to be a part of this movement!

United Way of Greater Greensboro Awards $275,000 in Grants to Address Community Needs

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NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT
Dana Carter
United Way of Greater Greensboro
Dana.carter@unitedwaygso.org
Phone: 336-378-6617

Greensboro, NC – November 21, 2014 – United Way of Greater Greensboro is focused on supporting solutions that improve the quality of life for all in Greater Greensboro. It does this, in part, by investing in new, innovative community programs. Investments for up to three years are available to support programs that have proven successful and have created positive change in the community.

United Way of Greater Greensboro is proud to continue its mission with a recent investment of $275,000 into the community through two grants, managed by United Way of Greater Greensboro. The Kathleen & Joseph Bryan Community Enrichment and Venture Grant (CEVG) invests in new and innovative programs; whereas, the Joseph M. Bryan Human Services Grant provides stabilization and expansion grants for programs already demonstrating success. Applicants that met the respective grant eligibility requirements participated in an open RFP process in April 2014.

“Our community is overflowing with talent to make positive change in the lives of those in need,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. “These grants highlight great, new partnerships that deepen United Way’s work in meaningful ways.”

Grantees are working to ensure every child enters school healthy, safe and ready to succeed in school and in life. They are supporting families through opportunities to increase income, build savings, and access resources to prevent and minimize crisis. Grantees are also helping residents live healthy lives by providing information and resources, removing barriers to healthcare and connecting them to local available resources.

Community volunteers evaluate and review applications to make investment recommendation for approval by the United Way of Greater Greensboro Board of Directors.

For information about our annual grants and future RFPs, visit www.unitedwaygso.org/nonprofits/.
Grantees supporting children and youth through education include:

Black Child Development: Freedom School – $10,000
Reading Connections: Family Literacy Academy – $30,000
YWCA of Greensboro: C.R.E.W. – $15,000

Grantees supporting individuals and families to become financially stable and independent include:

Children’s Home Society: Kinship Navigator Assistance Program – $10,600
Community Housing Solutions: Aging in Place – $30,000
Greensboro Housing Coalition: Housing Hotline – $10,000
Greensboro Urban Ministry: Beyond GUM Project – $15,000
People & Paws 4 Hope: Second Chance – $30,000
Reading Connections: Detention Center Literacy – $15,000
Women’s Resource Center: Women’s Financial Fitness Project – $25,000

Grantees supporting all individuals to lead a healthy life include:

Adult Center for Enrichment: Res Fit Club – $12,254
Family Service of the Piedmont: Electronic Health Records Implementation – $15,000
Guilford Adult Health: Feed the 485 – $9,746
Mary’s House: Integrated Health Care for Homeless Children – $11,000
Mental Health Association of Greensboro: Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training – $15,000
North Carolina A&T State University: Aggie Outreach Teen Pregnancy Prevention – $6,400
Women’s Resource Center: Change Maker Recharge – $15,000

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LIVE UNITED
United Way of Greater Greensboro pools resources, time and talent to support programs, initiatives, and partner agencies meeting the critical needs of our community and help every individual and family succeed. United Way is a worldwide network in 41 countries and territories, including more than 1,200 local organizations in the U.S. United Way recruits people and organizations who bring the passion, expertise and resources needed to get things done. To give, advocate and volunteer, visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org.