Events Archives - Page 18 of 20 - United Way of Greater Greensboro

Procter & Gamble engages over 700 employees in service to the community

Posted on October 5, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

As part of an annual all staff retreat, on September 21, P&G employees volunteered for 2 hours, making 7,500 trail mix snack packs, over 7,000 toiletry kits, countless encouraging cards and notes, 250 pencil bundles, and almost 100 no-sew blankets.

The products produced were donated to over 20 nonprofit organizations, including: Salvation Army Center of Hope, YWCA Family Shelter, Women’s Resource Center, Senior Resources of Guilford, Hospice and Palliative Care of Greensboro, Guilford Child Development, Family Services of the Piedmont, and Greensboro Urban Ministry.

The Volunteer Center of Greensboro and United Way of Greater Greensboro co-facilitated the project. P&G used the event to promote their annual United Way of Greater Greensboro fundraising campaign with their employees.

Erin Kennedy, Director of Programs with The Volunteer Center said, “We were thrilled to work with P&G to engage their employees in service- they were so eager to give back, and wanted to do as much as possible, benefitting as many organizations as possible. They really take their corporate responsibility seriously, and the nonprofit community really appreciates that. We couldn’t do what we do without companies like P&G!”

“In two hours, P&G employees impacted thousands of children, families and adults. This event is a true example of the power of partnerships, volunteering and LIVING UNITED,” says Carl Jones, Campaign Manager, United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Terri Rouleau, Site Human Resources Leader with P&G said, “This collaboration between P&G, United Way of Greater Greensboro and The Volunteer Center was a true privilege to be a part of. Our team at P&G could not have been more energized and we are truly grateful for the opportunity to GIVE BACK !!”

CEO Breakfast hosted by Honda Aircraft Company: August 26, 2016

Posted on August 30, 2016August 30, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

A very special thanks to Honda Aircraft Company for hosting United Way of Greater Greensboro’s annual CEO breakfast.

Like Honda’s corporate philosophy of “going to the spot” to identify and solve business and community needs, United Way goes to spots in our community that need the most help so we can make a long-term impact.United Way is creating partnerships to reduce poverty in greater Greensboro.

We are also thankful those who attended and showed their individual and corporate support! Click here to see pictures!

Community Celebration and NEW United Way Announcement

Posted on August 23, 2016August 30, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

The community is invited to join United Way of Greater Greensboro on August 31, 5 to 7 p.m., at Belk, Friendly Center in Greensboro, for a celebration like they have never seen before.

The celebration, which kicks off United Way’s 2016 campaign, will include free food, drinks, giveaways, a DJ and more and will feature a special announcement outlining the “NEW” United Way at 6 p.m. Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food, gently used handbags or school supplies.

Gregg Strader, Executive Vice President, Chief Banking Officer at American National Bank & Trust and United Way Board member is chairing the 2016 campaign.

Strader says, “I am honored and thrilled to serve as this year’s campaign chair. Our focus on reducing poverty is brave and bold and we are achieving positive results. We are grateful to all of our supporters including volunteers, community partners, corporations, foundations and citizens who want to make a difference in our community.”

Additionally during the celebration, results from this year’s Pacesetter Campaign that began in July will be announced. The Pacesetter Campaign is made of 17 companies that decided to conduct their United Way campaigns early to pave the way for a successful community-wide campaign.

2016 Pacesetter Campaigns:

Allen Tate Realtors
American National Bank & Trust
Carruthers & Roth
City of Greensboro
Duke Energy
First Citizens Bank & Trust
Guilford County
Milan Pharmaceuticals
Norfolk Southern Corporation
Piedmont Natural Gas
Procter & Gamble Manufacturing
Senn Dunn Insurance
Sharrard, McGee & Co.
Target Corporation
United Way of Greater Greensboro – just recognition, no award
UPS
VF Corporation
Volunteer Center of Greensboro

The NEW United Way is creating partnerships to reduce poverty in greater Greensboro. We bring together dynamic and caring professionals and volunteers who teach, coach and inspire the 57,000 people in our community, struggling to obtain basic needs. The federal government defines poverty as family of four earning $24,300 per year. With so many of our neighbors struggling to meet basic needs, United Way believes poverty must be addressed so that our community can thrive.

Day of Action Offers Volunteer Opportunities and Kicks Off MeaningFULL Meals Summer Food Program

Posted on June 15, 2016July 12, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

United Way, The Volunteer Center and BackPack Beginnings Partnering to Feed Children

United Way of Greater Greensboro is mobilizing the community on June 21, for Day of Action and continuing the volunteer buzz throughout July with its annual MeaningFULL meals program in partnership with The Volunteer Center of Greensboro and BackPack Beginnings.

“June 21 is United Way National Day of Action. Join us to share prosperity with neighbors who need a helping hand. MeaningFULL Meals brings food to children and adults who are hungry. Your kindness can bring nutrition into corners of our community that do not have grocery stores. Please give the gift of nutritious food,” says Michelle Gethers-Clark, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro.

Day of Action June 21

On June 21, people across the world will volunteer in their communities to celebrate United Way’s 2016 Day of Action. Day of Action is a worldwide event that promotes volunteerism. Locally, we have partnered with The Volunteer Center to offer the community multiple opportunities that support education, income, health and basic needs.

This year, the community can:

Host a food drive
Host a book drive
Build hygiene kits
Submit budget-friendly recipes.

More about these volunteer opportunities can be found on United Way’s website at: www.unitedwaygso.org. In addition, people can count down the days to Day of Action by reading United Way’s A Healthy Us blog at: www.ahealthyus.wordpress.com. People are encouraged to share their experiences and photos on social media using #DayofAction.

MeaningFULL Meals June 21 – July 25

There are over 72,000 students grades K-12 who attend Guilford County Schools. More than 67% of these students qualify for free or reduced lunch. In the summer months, many of these children do not have the same access to a nutritious meal and go hungry.

Three years ago, United Way and The Volunteer Center started MeaningFULL Meals, a summer nutrition project that seeks food donations to help feed school children in need. People are encouraged to host food drives June 21 – July 25 that will benefit food pantries at Wiley Elementary, Jackson Middle and Smith High Schools.

“Hunger remains a significant issue for many in Guilford County,” says Carley Swaim, executive director of The Volunteer Center of Greensboro. “Giving of your time and resources to help children and families have access to nutritious meals this summer is your chance to make a difference and invest in our future.”

This year, BackPack Beginnings has joined the partnership and is kicking off the MeaningFULL Meals project by making the program’s first donation of over 3,400 pounds of food. This initial food donation will be used to help stock a food pantry at Wiley Elementary School, ensuring there will be food available for students to take home when the MeaningFULL Meals begins on June 21.

“BackPack Beginnings fed 105 students at Wiley Elementary this past school year, so we are thrilled to continue to feed many of these students over the summer as well. As we know too well, hunger does not end during summer break. We are honored to partner with the United Way and Volunteer Center to serve in this MeaningFULL way,” says Parker White, Founder/Volunteer Executive Director BackPack Beginnings.

Food drive donations supporting all three pantries can be dropped off at Wiley Elementary, 600 West Terrell Street, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

3rd Annual Family Economic Success Day Offering Free Tax Prep

Posted on February 29, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

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 third annual Family Economic Success Day, Friday, March 11, 2016.

Family Economic Success Day will offer free income tax preparation and filing by IRS-certified volunteer income tax preparers, as well as information and education on financial topics. BB&T will provide free credit reports to those who qualify for tax prep, and Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater Greensboro will give free individual review sessions to discuss those credit reports.

Free tax preparation is available to those whose households earned $54,000 or less in 2015. 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. Appointments preferred: call SeniorLine at 336-333-6981.

“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.”

“BB&T is committed to making a difference in the communities we serve. Between the months of January and April, we utilize our Bank Bus as a mobile VITA site to offer free tax preparation and financial education. BB&T is pleased to partner with the United Way to provide this service to the community,” John Stokes, VP/Community Development Specialist NC/SC.

BB&T is one of the largest financial services holding companies in the U.S. with approximately $209.9 billion in assets and market capitalization of approximately $29.5 billion as of Dec. 31, 2015. Based in Winston-Salem, N.C., the company operates 2,139 financial centers in 15 states and Washington, D.C., and offers a full range of consumer and commercial banking, securities brokerage, asset management, mortgage and insurance products and services. A Fortune 500 company, BB&T is consistently recognized for outstanding client satisfaction by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Greenwich Associates and others. BB&T has also been named one of the World’s Strongest Banks by Bloomberg Markets Magazine, one of the top three in the U.S. and in the top 15 globally. More information about BB&T and its full line of products and services is available at BBT.com.

WHAT: Family Economic Success Day hosted by United Way of Greater Greensboro and sponsored by BB&T

WHEN: Friday, March 11, 9:00am-6:00pm – last appointments available at 5:00pm.

WHERE: United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro, NC 27405

Workshops during the day include:

9:00 – 11:00 am: “Ready to Be Your Own Boss? How-To Advice from Local Business Owners” – panel led by Greensboro-based entrepreneur, Joe Fowler

12:15pm: “Money and Me: Habits and Attitudes,” by Housing Consultants Group

2:00pm: “Financial Solutions,” from BB&T Bank

Workshops are open to the public, at any income level, not only people getting their taxes done. For questions about workshops, or to reserve your seat, contact Sarah Glover at sarah.glover@unitedwaygso.org or 336-378-5036.

WHO QUALIFIES for FREE TAX PREPARATION: Households earning $54,000 or less in 2015 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 $62,000.

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

PAPER DONATIONS NEEDED: United Way is asking for donations of 8-1/2”x11” white printer 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.

Last-Minute Help to Enroll in Affordable Care Act Coverage

Posted on January 25, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

In an effort to give uninsured people living in the Greensboro area a last-minute opportunity to enroll in health coverage through the Affordable Care Act’s Health Insurance Marketplace before the final enrollment deadline on Sunday, January 31, local organizations have planned a series of enrollment events during the last week of January.

Get Covered America, Cone Health Foundation, United Way of Greater Greensboro, Legal Aid of NC and Guilford County Health & Human Services will host events to educate people about the Health Insurance Marketplace.

A 3-day kickoff event will take place Tuesday, January 26 to Thursday, January 28, at the Greensboro Coliseum. To provide support during the final weekend, there will be four additional events in Greensboro on Saturday, January 30 and Sunday, January 31 at United Way of Greater Greensboro and Legal Aid of North Carolina.

Walk-in appointments are available at all the sites and will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. People can also schedule appointments in advance by calling 1-855-733-3711 or visiting www.getcoveredamerica.org/connector

In-person assisters are asking consumers to bring the following to the enrollment events:

Social Security Numbers or document numbers for immigrants;
Employer name and phone number, and income information for every member of your household who is working or has income and needs coverage;
Policy numbers for current health insurance plans covering members of your household.

The open enrollment period is an opportunity to not only gain access to quality affordable health care, but also a chance for people to avoid paying a fine when they file their taxes. Those who do not enroll in a plan by the deadline of January 31, 2016, could face a fine of $695 or 2.5% of yearly income, whichever is greater.

AT-A-GLANCE

What: Greensboro Affordable Care Act Deadline Enrollment Events
Who: Get Covered America, Cone Health Foundation, United Way of Greater Greensboro, Legal Aid of NC and Guilford County Health & Human Services

When: Tuesday, January 26, to Thursday, January 28, 10a.m. – 5 p.m.
Where: Greensboro Coliseum, 1921 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27403

When: Saturday, January 30 and Sunday, January 31, 10a.m. – 3p.m.
Where: United Way of Greater Greensboro, 1500 Yanceyville St., Greensboro, NC 27405
Where: Legal Aid of North Carolina, 122 N. Elm St, 7th Floor, (in the Self Help building), Greensboro, NC

Make It A Day On, Not A Day Off

Posted on January 4, 2016 by Shelby Newsome

Every January, thousands of Americans come together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through service.

How You Can Serve
On Monday, January 18th, The Volunteer Center of Greensboro will be hosting several service projects at Four Seasons Town Centre, benefiting local nonprofits. There will also be a Nonprofit Fair to learn how to get involved in your community, a kid’s area, community art projects and performances from Guilford County School students, a scavenger hunt and raffle.

Did You Know?
In 1994, Congress designated Martin Luther King, Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service, appointing the Corporation of National and Community Service (CNCS) to lead the effort. MLK Day of Service is every third Monday in January.

Dr. King had a vision of creating a “Beloved Community” — a community of people with different backgrounds, recognizing that we are all connected and that our own well-being is linked to the well-being of others.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service is an opportunity for individuals to strengthen their community and break barriers, moving us closer to a “Beloved Community.”

How will you make it “a day on, not a day off?”

6th Annual Handbags for Hope Raises Nearly $50,000

Posted on November 23, 2015November 23, 2015 by Shelby Newsome

Greensboro, NC (November 20, 2015) – Final totals are in and United Way of Greater Greensboro’s (UWGG) 6^th Annual Handbags for Hope, hosted by Women’s Leadership Council, raised $48,967. Proceeds benefit UWGG’s goal to break the cycle of poverty for individuals and families in the greater Greensboro community.

Around 275 people attended the event held at the Greensboro Country Club. Handbags for Hope features a silent auction and a live auction where models walk a runway displaying the handbags during the bidding process. Attendees place bids on new and vintage women’s handbags, which are donated by sponsors, local organizations and individuals.

For the fourth year in a row, Global Brands Group was a presenting sponsor and this year donated over 300 items. Other top sponsors included VF Corporation and Tanger Outlets.

8th Annual Leadership Breakfast Will Identify Local Solutions to Break Cycle of Poverty

Posted on November 20, 2015 by Shelby Newsome

Greensboro, NC (November 20, 2015) – On December 1, 7:15 – 9:30 a.m. at Bennett College’s Global Learning Center, approximately 150 – 200 people are expected to attend United Way of Greater Greensboro’s (UWGG) 8^th annual African American Leadership (AAL) Breakfast featuring a panel discussion focused on finding ways to break the cycle of poverty.

Hugh Holston, AAL Chair, will moderate the panel and panelists will:

Share personal stories and life experiences (or those of others) which led to poverty
Highlight local resources which can be relied upon to help people break out of poverty
Provide insight on their agency’s impacts and accomplishments in helping break the cycle of poverty.

Panelists will include:

James Speight, Executive Director Malachi House
Michelle Kennedy, Executive Director Interactive Resource Center
Darryl Kosciak, Executive Director Partners Ending Homelessness
Steven Still, Director of Maintenance & Facilities, Salvation Army/Co-Founder and Team Lead NightWatch.

Admission is free, however an RSVP is required by November 23. People may RSVP by visiting www.unitedwaygso.org and clicking on the AAL Breakfast scrolling banner.

Attendees are encouraged to bring and donate new youth-sized winter coats and socks. Coat sizes can range from youth medium to adult XL. Donations will be given to AAL’s African American Male Initiative (AAMI). AAMI is a mentoring program that empowers students as they progress through Wiley Elementary, Jackson Middle and Smith High Schools.

Young Leaders 2015 Trunk-or-Treat

Posted on November 2, 2015November 5, 2015 by Shelby Newsome

For the past five years, United Way of Greater Greensboro Young Leaders have hosted Trunk-or-Treat for children and their families in the Greensboro community. Young Leaders and community volunteers creatively decorate their vehicle trunks and fill them with candy and other treats for children and their families to enjoy. Each year, Trunk-or-Treat is a fun, safe and festive event open to anyone who wants to attend. Historically, parents who bring their children say they prefer Trunk-or-Treat to traditional trick-or-treating because it is during the day making it safer for their children.

This year’s event featured 29 trunks, games, face painting and a free book station that allowed children an opportunity to pick out a book to take home. The event continues to grow with over 550 children participating this year compared to 360 children in attendance in 2014.

Sharita Crossen, member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and co-chair of Delta GEMS, a program for young ladies, aged 14-18, interested in developing leadership skills and reaching their full potential, said “I volunteered to work with youth and to give Delta GEMS a chance to become involved and volunteer in their community.”

The mission of Young Leaders is to make a positive and lasting impact throughout our community by mobilizing passionate young professionals who are actively seeking ways to give, advocate, and volunteer in an effort to further United Way of Greater Greensboro’s work to break the cycle of poverty. Anyone can have a role in breaking the cycle of poverty and Trunk-or-Treat is just one of the ways to do so.

This year, we had a visit from Paw Patrol, Mario and Luigi, a triceratops, and even Michael Jackson.