Author: Lauren Forbis

Public Invited to Attend Virtually End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series Hosted by United Way Women United, March 18

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (March 2, 2021) – The public is invited to attend the latest session of End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series hosted by United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Women United donor affinity group. Hosted on Zoom, the session will take place on March 18, 12- 1 p.m. 

Speakers Dr. Nannette Funderburk and Cheri Timmons will focus on the topic “Coping During COVID-19: Emotional Wellness and Resiliency”. This series is free and open to the public. 

Learn more about the event speakers:

Dr. Nannette Funderburk is the owner of The Social and Emotional Learning Group, PLLC, a counseling private practice in Greensboro, NC. She provides counseling and training to individuals, groups, and organizations. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor. Dr. Funderburk assists individuals with overwhelming life problems, recognizing root emotions related to life issues, employing emotion management skills, responsible decision making skills, and interpersonal relationship skills.

Cheri Timmons is a Health and Wellness Coach at Cheri Timmons Coaching, LLC.  She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, Certified Health Coach, and Yoga Teacher. Her licensing and certifications have allowed her to work in a variety of settings from schools, non-profits, government agencies, health care organizations, hospitals, and private practice. Cheri is passionate about helping women become their fullest expression of themselves – teaching them how to transform limiting beliefs into empowering truths so they can live with more happiness and fulfillment.

End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series is made possible by generous sponsorship from VF Corporation. To register, visit www.unitedwaygso.org/learn.

From Hello to Help, NC 211 is Here – Celebrate 211 Day, Feb. 11, with United Way

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (February 11, 2021) – In a crisis, in a disaster, in a pandemic, NC 211 is here to help North Carolinians get connected to food, housing assistance, healthcare resources, and much more. On February 11th, United Ways and 211 call centers across the country are celebrating 211 Day.

NC 211 is a United-Way-funded information and referral service. Accessible via an easy-to-remember, three-digit number and available 24/7 in over 180 languages, families and individuals can call to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services within their community.

In the last year, many greater Greensboro residents who may have never had to reach out for assistance before found themselves dialing 2-1-1. Jessica (a single mom of two) called 2-1-1 when she tested positive for COVID-19 and was unable to work for at least two weeks. The NC 211 Call Specialist provided a referral to the county COVID helpline and information on two local programs that may be able to help Jessica with her bills.

“Over the past year, it’s become abundantly clear that anyone– at any time– can be faced with the need to seek housing or economic or health-related resources and supports, for example. Thanks to United Way’s 211, help is one phone call away,” says Traci McLemore, Senior Manager of Community Impact and Initiatives at United Way of Greater Greensboro.

On March 18th, when NC 211 was activated by Governor Cooper as part of the State’s emergency response, call volume skyrocketed. In greater Greensboro alone, NC 211 answered over 6,000 calls in 2020. The top requests in our area were for housing, health care, and food. Many callers needed help with more than one category.

“North Carolinians contact 211 for a variety of reasons, from how do I file for unemployment? To where can I find food to put on the table? And how do I pay my rent now that my income is gone?” says Heather Black, NC 211 State Director. “211 truly is for everyone. Whether you’re in a crisis or just need a little more information about state guidelines, we’re here to talk you through your concerns.”

NC 211 remains strong in its goal to provide callers with a personal connection to resources. That means from the first hello, someone calling 2-1-1 is reaching a real person who can talk through their specific situation.

In addition to finding information over the phone, North Carolinians can also search NC 211’s database of resources by visiting nc211.org and entering their need and location. This updated search tool makes it easier for residents to find services quickly if they don’t have time to make a phone call.

You can learn more about NC 211 and the local 211 Day celebration in the month of February on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram at @unitedwaygso or nc211.org.

College Students Invited to Participate in United Way’s Virtual Alternative Spring Break Challenge

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (February 9, 2020) – Spring break looks different for college students this year and so does United Way of Greater Greensboro’s annual Alternative Spring Break program.

Local college students are invited to participate in United Way’s virtual Alternative Spring Break Challenge, happening now through March 2. Students who complete the three challenges will be invited to an exclusive, virtual wrap party on March 4. Two random participants will also be selected to win cool prizes.

“Our pivot to a virtual Alternative Spring Break Challenge allows us to safely continue everything that makes United Way’s Alternative Spring Break so impactful. Students get the opportunity to support United Way’s work to end poverty, volunteer, learn something new about their community, and meet some incredible local leaders,” said Lauren Forbis, Marketing and Communications Manager at United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Unlike in years past, there is no application for students to complete. Any and all local college students are welcome to participate.

The three challenges include:

  1. Students will volunteer by recording themselves reading a Dr. Seuss book. These recordings will be played during a Dr. Seuss Day Celebration for families participating in United Way’s Raising a Reader program.
  2. Students will learn how difficult it is to break the cycle of poverty by completing United Way’s virtual poverty simulator.
  3. Students will inspire others to give back and spread the word about United Way’s work to end poverty by posting on social media.

Interested students can visit unitedwaygso.org/springbreak to learn more and participate. 

Public Invited to Attend United Way’s 11th Annual Handbags to End Poverty Virtual Event

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (January 29, 2021) – The public is invited to attend United Way of Greater Greensboro’s 11th Annual Handbags to End Poverty hosted by Women United on February 3, 2021 from 7 to 8 p.m.  Anyone who purchases a raffle ticket at unitedwaygso.org/handbags will receive free entry to the virtual event.

Attendees will have the opportunity to win one of five impressive raffle packages including festive long weekend getaways, fine jewelry, and a luxurious pampering package.

During the event, attendees can also bid on silent and live auction handbags in a wide variety of styles and prices. In addition to the main event, attendees will be able to attend a pre-show starting at 6:30 p.m. with Valentine’s Day-themed cocktail and appetizer demonstrations thanks to 1618.

“Over the last 11 years, Handbags to End Poverty has become a highly-anticipated event hosted by Women United for the greater Greensboro community.  We look forward to welcoming attendees to a festive and impactful virtual event,” said Julie Longmire, Director of Community Affairs and Engagement at United Way of Greater Greensboro.

All event proceeds will benefit United Way of Greater Greensboro’s efforts to end local poverty.
Event sponsors include:

  • Sharing the Love Sponsor: Tito’s Handmade Vodka
  • Gold Sponsors: Peggy Glaser and Susan Wiseman
  • Silver Sponsors: Cone Health, Cindi Hewitt/Leigh Seager, ITG Brands, Koury Corporation, Lincoln Financial Group, Melanie Neal, Pinnacle Financial Partners,  Restoration MedSpa/Marisa Faircloth, and Zuraw Financial Advisors/Ann Zuraw
  • Bronze Sponsors: Bank of America, Vanessa Carroll, Vicki McCain, Emilie Samet/Leslye Tuck, and Claire Sullivan
  • Supporter Sponsors: Alyce Barrett, Marianne Bennett/Patty McIvor, Paige DuBose, Susie Fenger, Leigh Jones/Leslie Sardzinski, Nadine Malpass, Dr. Mike and Emily Mango, Liz Mills, Lovelle Overbey, SAPHire Solutions/Ivan Godette, Laura Schulman, Joy Shavitz, Kim Smir/Amy Kreimer/Donna Lee, and Jennifer Strasser.

Public Invited to Attend United Way’s Free Virtual “Love GSO” Concert featuring Local Artist SunQueen Kelcey

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (January 27, 2021) – The public is invited to attend a free United Way of Greater Greensboro virtual concert featuring live music by local artist SunQueen Kelcey on Thursday, February 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m. This “Love GSO” themed concert will entertain and inspire attendees to support local efforts to end poverty.

SunQueen Kelcey is known for her genre-bending style that incorporates hip-hop, soul, rock, and contemporary R&B. Specializing in blending her original music with Top Billboard Hit covers, SunQueen Kelcey delivers a universal sound that aims to unite her listeners over a shared experience.

“As a musician, I’m dedicated to writing about life, light, and love but also educating myself on the ways we can eradicate poverty, homelessness, and more. I’m committed to learning and sharing knowledge everyday because sending the right message is so important when you have a platform. I’m excited to use my art to support a cause I deeply care about. United Way’s work to end poverty means a lot to me. I have some special songs in mind that will help us all celebrate love this February,” said Kelcey.

Everyone is invited to virtually attend the concert to learn what’s new with United Way of Greater Greensboro’s efforts to end poverty and enjoy a family-friendly concert.

UWGG is asking 10,000 people to donate $100 this year. During the event, attendees will be invited to text IND100 to 41444 to give and become one of the 10,000 people joining the movement to end local poverty.

Visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org/Concert to register and watch via Zoom. Alternatively, watch the Facebook livestream at www.facebook.com/unitedwaygso.

Mentoring Matters: Cayden & Alana’s Story

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Alana and Cayden are one example of how mentoring truly matters.

The first time Alana asked Cayden to look in the mirror and name three things she liked about herself, she couldn’t name one. Just one year later, she can name more than three. She’s thriving in STEM at Kearns Academy of Computer and Information Science and is more confident than ever. And it’s all thanks to the power of mentorship.

“I don’t know where I’d be without my mentor, Ms. Alana,” said Cayden.

Alana, founder of I Am A Queen, launched the nonprofit at just 23 years old after recognizing the need for a mentor in her own life. The organization is a member of United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Mentoring Matters initiative that works to increase the number of mentors and improve the effectiveness of mentoring programs in the Greater Greensboro area. United Way supports mentoring because young people who have additional positive, caring adults in their lives as mentors are more likely to overcome and avoid poverty.

“When I was abused as a child, I didn’t have an adult to turn to. I knew I needed to create a safe space for young girls in my community to express themselves and grow into their full potential. 12 years later, I Am A Queen is impacting lives like I only imagined it would,” said Alana.

According to Alana and Cayden both, Cayden’s growth in the last year through mentorship and volunteerism has been nothing short of amazing.

“When I first met Cayden, she was extremely shy. She sat in the back of the room. Cayden is so much more confident now. She is an awesome public speaker. She’s giving back to her community,” said Alana. “Cayden has awesome parents who support her so much. Having the extra boost of a mentor helped her to shine.”

The data supports this too. According to MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, having a mentor is linked to improved academic, social, and economic prospects. 

Young adults with mentors are:

  • 55% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school
  • 78% more likely to volunteer regularly
  • And 130% more likely to hold leadership positions.

Cayden thinks everyone should have a mentor. “Some of my friends would benefit from having a mentor—everyone would! You can get off track about what’s important, but your mentor is there to help you be your best self, bring out your strengths, and help you work on your areas of improvement. You need someone in your life that will help push you and my mentor has always done that for me,” said Cayden.

Outside of the classroom, Cayden believes that serving her community is her responsibility. When asked why she volunteers, Cayden said, “It’s a given.” She’s participated in all three of I Am A Queen’s big community service events— Winter Drive for the Homeless, Back to School, and Christmas Adoption—along with other community volunteer opportunities. Looking to 2021, Cayden will even be volunteering to teach a STEM workshop for I Am A Queen participants.

Mentors like Alana help keep students in school, improve self-esteem, and set career goals and take steps to realize them. Yet one in three young people will grow up without this critical asset. Right now, there are children in our community waiting for someone like you to listen, guide and share your life experience with them. Click here to learn more about how to become a mentor.

Public Invited to Attend United Way’s Free Virtual Holiday Concert featuring Jessica Mashburn and Evan Olson

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (December 3, 2020) – United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) is continuing to celebrate its 98th year and invites everyone in the community to join the fun. On December 17, 5:30-6:30 p.m., UWGG is hosting a free virtual concert with live music by local artists Jessica Mashburn and Evan Olson.

“We are so excited to partner our music with United Way’s work to end poverty. It’s our belief that if more people supported their mission, they could lift up our community to a position where those in need could begin to thrive here,” said Mashburn.

Everyone is invited to virtually attend the concert to learn about what’s new with UWGG’s efforts to end poverty and enjoy the family-friendly concert.

UWGG is asking 10,000 people to donate $100 this year. During the event, attendees will be invited to text IND100 to 41444 to give and become one of the 10,000 people joining the movement to end local poverty.

Visit www.UnitedWayGSO.org/Concert to register and watch via Zoom. Alternatively, watch the Facebook livestream at www.facebook.com/unitedwaygso.

United Way of Greater Greensboro Community Impact Manager Justin Williams-Blackwell Named in Inaugural “20 in their 20s” Awards

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (November 19, 2020) – United Way of Greater Greensboro Community Impact Manager for Health and Basic Needs Justin Williams-Blackwell was named in the Triad Business Journal’s inaugural 20 in their 20s awards. 

According to the Triad Business Journal, their newest awards program recognizes the region’s young talent — those that have made significant contributions to their workplaces and communities before they turn 30. 

“I’m humbled to be selected as one of the Triad Business Journal’s 20 in their 20s award winners. Congratulations to all of the talented young professionals recognized. This honor was made possible by the amazing individuals that I’ve worked alongside and served through my work. I’m eternally grateful for them and look forward to continuing to make a difference in my community for many years to come,” said Williams-Blackwell.  

Williams-Blackwell joined United Way of Greater Greensboro in 2018. He is a graduate of Guilford College and the University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG). For nearly nine years, Williams-Blackwell has worked in the Greensboro nonprofit community working to eliminate poverty, ensure adequate housing, decrease health disparities and dismantle systemic racism. He was named a 2017 National Rising Star by the American Society of Public Administration. Williams-Blackwell is an active volunteer in the Greensboro community, serving on the UNCG Masters in Public Affairs Alumni Advisory Council, Piedmont Triad Regional Food Council, United Way Young Leaders Cabinet and more. 

Triad Business Journal will celebrate the honorees in a special print publication out Dec. 6, in addition to online and social media coverage. 

Public Invited to Attend United Way’s 13th Annual Conversations with Community Leaders hosted by African American Leadership, Dec. 8

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (November 13, 2020) – The public is invited to attend United Way of Greater Greensboro’s 13th Annual Conversations with Community Leaders hosted by African American Leadership on December 8, 2020 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Hosted on Zoom, this free event is open to the public and will feature a panel discussion. This year’s event topic is “Working Your Way out of Poverty: Addressing Workforce Development Through Equity and Reentry”. Attendees will be empowered to create collaborative solutions. To RSVP, visit unitedwaygso.org/convo.

Presenters include:

  • Edward Williams, Reentry Director, Guilford County Sheriff’s Department
  • Chris Rivera, Director of Workforce Development, City of Greensboro
  • Love Jones, Director Human Rights, City of Greensboro
  • Lynch Hunt, Owner, AWOL Fitness

Special thanks to event sponsors:

  • American National Bank
  • Cone Health Foundation 
  • Cone Health System
  • Greensboro Housing Authority
  • Lincoln Financial Group

Public Invited to Attend Virtually, End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series Hosted by United Way Young Leaders, Nov. 12

Posted on by Lauren Forbis

Greensboro, NC (November 11, 2020) – The public is invited to attend End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series hosted by United Way of Greater Greensboro Young Leaders. Hosted on Zoom, the session will take place on November 12, 12- 1 p.m. 

Attendees will learn from local leaders about COVID-19’s impact on local education, health and housing issues. This series is free and open to the public. 

Featured speakers include: 

  • Dr. Jamie King, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Professional Development at Guilford County School 
  • Jamilla Pinder, Assistant Director Healthy Communities at Cone Health 
  • Justin Williams-Blackwell, Community Impact Manager for Health and Basic Needs at United Way of Greater Greensboro 

“In the wake of the pandemic, we’re all wondering where we go from here and how we can help. This session of End Poverty: The Lunch and Learn Series provides a great opportunity to learn about how COVID-19 is still impacting our community and what we can all do to make a difference. Our incredible speakers will definitely educate and inspire attendees to take action,” said Lauren Forbis, Marketing and Communications Manager at United Way of Greater Greensboro. 

To register, visit www.unitedwaygso.org/learn.