GREENSBORO, NC (July 3, 2024) – United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) convened its annual meeting, welcoming 11 new and returning board members and unveiling strategic investments exceeding $5 million. This funding bolsters investments supporting 52 transformative programs, including nationally recognized Family Success Centers (FSC) and the innovative Guilford Success Network Pilot (GSN).
“United Way of Greater Greensboro is committed to harnessing the power of diverse community leaders on our board to drive meaningful change,” said Frank McCain, president and CEO. “By investing in programs that address critical community issues, we’re not only providing immediate support but also laying foundations for long-term solutions to end poverty in our region.”
Board member elections
The annual meeting saw the election of 11 distinguished board members with new or renewed terms. Among them are:
Dr. Mandy Eaton, Chief Operating Officer, Cone Health
Manuel Dudley, Vice President, Workforce & Continuing Education, GTCC
Anthony Boyd, Business Development Officer, First Bank
Tabitha Allen-Draft, Founder, CODA Connections
Debra Bingham, Assistant Professor, Business Law, Elon University
Wai-Fung Thompson, SVP, People & Culture, ITG Brands
United Way’s commitment and grant application process
United Way of Greater Greensboro remains steadfast in its mission to forge community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Each year, local nonprofits undergo an application and review process for United Way grants. A committee of local volunteers review the applications and select programs that align with the United Way’s mission in one of two poverty-related categories:
Poverty Relieving Grants: Open to programs or collaboratives providing services that help people find and stay on pathways out of poverty through cradle-to-career support, services for basic needs, access to healthcare and financial stability.
Poverty Ending Grants: Open to programs or collaboratives providing services that offer clear pathways for people to leave poverty by increasing and maintaining their annual household income above the federal poverty threshold.
Strategic investments
This year’s strategic investments reflect UWGG’s commitment to addressing community needs through targeted support of nonprofit-led programs. Funded programs are designed to guide individuals towards sustained economic independence. Detailed 2024-2025 investment information, including the new HEARTH Beyond program by Youth Focus, Inc. can be found at www.UnitedWayGSO.org/Investments.
Community-wide impact
UWGG also offers health, financial, social and workforce support to residents through Family Success Centers and the Guilford Success Network, two initiatives that coordinate personalized services and provide coaching in group and individualized formats to eliminate barriers to self-sufficiency.
Other impactful community-wide initiatives led and funded by UWGG include:
Thriving at 3: Focuses on early childhood development through Thriving at 3, ensuring children are prepared for school success and reading proficiency by age 8. This initiative offers parenting and child development education with a strong emphasis on early literacy, supported by partners like UNCG: Center for New North Carolinians and local NC PreK programs.
Mentoring Matters: Fosters supportive relationships between mentors and local youth, including the African American Male Initiative at Wiley Elementary, Jackson Middle and Smith High Schools.
For more information on the United Way of Greater Greensboro’s initiatives and partnerships, visit http://www.UnitedWayGSO.org.
Greensboro, NC (July 1, 2024) – United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) is mobilizing the community throughout July with its annual MeaningFULL Meals program in partnership with BackPack Beginnings (BPB).
Eleven years ago, UWGG started MeaningFULL Meals as nutrition project that seeks food donations to help feed school children in need during summer break – and this year, the need is greater than ever before.
With the increase of food prices during the past year there has been a decline in donations. Local food pantries also report serving more guests due to these rising prices and the cut in SNAP benefits, making this year’s MeaningFULL Meals drive especially needed.
BackPack Beginnings joined the partnership eight years ago and serves as the recipient of all food donations, dispersing them to children and families in the community.
Everyone in the community is invited to participate throughout the month of July until August 9.
Simply host a drive and drop off your donations at United Way of Greater Greensboro by August 9.
Bring your own food donations to The United Way of Greater Greensboro. Drops should be made Monday – Thursday 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Additional drop off dates are Saturday, August 3rd from 10 a.m. – noon or Monday, August 5th from 5 – 6 p.m.
“BackPack Beginnings is thrilled to partner with The United Way of Greater Greensboro again this summer for MeaningFULL meals. Summer is a difficult time for children who rely on school meals for most of their nutritional needs. With food prices up, donations down and SNAP cuts, the need for MeaningFULL meals is more important than ever. We are excited to get this food into the hands of children this summer.” said Parker White, Founder/Executive Director, BPB.
Greensboro, NC (May 17, 2024) – Six local United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) annual campaign partners and one volunteer leader were recently honored with Spirit of North Carolina Awards, which celebrate organizations and individuals for their exemplary partnership demonstrated through fundraising, volunteering, outstanding leadership, and creative team building.
The Spirit of North Carolina Award offers local United Ways an opportunity to nominate organizations and individuals whose annual campaign and leadership exemplify the “spirit” of their community.
Local campaign award winners include Truist Bank, MG Newell Corporation, Lincoln Financial Group, Carter Bank & Trust, Electric Supply & Equipment, Beacon Technologies, and volunteer Jamiah Waterman.
United Way of North Carolina (UWNC) leads the award nomination and judging process and presents the awards annually. In April, UWNC presented a total of 85 Spirit of NC Awards during three regional events representing United Ways across the state.
“The Spirit of North Carolina Award is a statewide honor that recognizes companies and individuals who go above and beyond for their local communities. Through their fun campaign events, employee leadership making their campaigns successful, volunteerism throughout the community, and long-term impact in greater Greensboro, this year’s winners truly embody what it means to LIVE UNITED.” said Julia Thomas, Associate Vice-President, Development, UWGG.
Local Spirit of NC Award categories, winners, and representative quotes can be found below.
Award Category: Investment in Long-Term Sustainable Impact
Truist Bank
A partner in United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Bold Goal to help 3,000 households leave poverty, Truist exemplifies its purpose statement “to inspire and build better lives and communities.” Creating real and sustainable change in communities does not happen overnight. It requires long-term sustainable impact made by community partners invested in improving the lives of all citizens where they do business.
United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Family Success Centers bundle services and remove barriers to success with support such as childcare, transportation assistance and caring Success Coaches to support members along their long-term journey. Truist’s investment in these centers and United Way’s approach to end local poverty demonstrates the company’s intention to show unwavering care that creates more opportunities, lends a helping hand, and encourages people and businesses to thrive.
Truist employees not only show a commitment to making their community better for all through support of the annual United Way campaign but also by partnering with United Way to give back through supply drives and volunteer outings throughout the year. This enthusiasm for helping others alongside United Way is seen across the organization in Greensboro as local leadership champions the cause of helping others to create excitement and engage employees in the region. Truist states that “by doing our part as a corporate citizen to help build a better quality of life for the communities in which we live and work, we hope to inspire others to do the same and create a ripple effect of meaningful change.”
Award Category: Impactful and Engaging Campaign Event or Activity
MG Newell Corporation
For MG Newell’s campaign, they organized a United Way Week, commencing on Monday with a vibrant “Margaritaville” themed kickoff. This event, featuring Margarita mocktails, Hawaiian Leis, and a Taco food truck, not only set the energy for the week but also created a platform for United Way of Greater Greensboro’s CEO Frank McCain to share remarks that offered substance and perspective to the festivities thanks to the gracious invitation from Mr. Gray and Michael Sherril.
Throughout the week, there were daily raffle drawings and creative competitions such as, the best beach outfit competition on Tuesday, the desk decorating competition on Wednesday, a scavenger hunt on Thursday and cornhole on Friday.
The results were exceptional – a company with fewer than 80 employees rallied together to raise a remarkable $30,000. Over a third of their staff pledged support, and the average gift of nearly $700 reflects the genuine generosity and commitment of each individual.
“We are incredibly honored to receive the Spirit of North Carolina Award from United Way. This recognition underscores our deep commitment to giving back to our community and supporting initiatives that create positive change. At M.G. Newell, we believe in the power of collective impact and are proud to partner with United Way to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around us.” – Gray Sherrill, President, M.G. Newell
Lincoln Financial Group
Lincoln Financial Group had a stellar 2023 campaign season as they collaboratively executed multiple events to raise their campaign total. This year, they implemented a golf tournament that took their special events total from $4,397 last year to $39,956 this year! That meant that their total campaign increased from $441,010 to $484,635! That was impressive. Not only did they think outside of the box with the implementation of the golf tournament, but they also held a successful pancake breakfast and food truck festival, along with daily encouragement from top leadership to give. Lincoln Financial was all hands on-deck and their campaign soared. They are the true definition of teamwork, hard work, and dedication to our mission of ending generational poverty. They left no stone unturned. In addition to a successful workplace campaign, Lincoln Financial has employed several of our Family Success members and volunteered with a multitude of our strategic partners. That brings their campaign full circle and is a testament to their overall 2023 campaign success.
“Team Lincoln is incredibly honored to be awarded the Spirit of North Carolina Award! Our strong partnership with the United Way has allowed our employees to make a significant impact for the people in our community though volunteer opportunities and raising funds to help households in our community leave poverty.” – Lincoln Financial Group
Award Category: Building Momentum and Sustainability Through Engaged Leadership or Employees
Carter Bank & Trust
Since doing their first ever campaign in 2021, Carter Bank has grown their fundraising totals by 43% in 2022 and an astonishing 85% this year; achieving an overall growth of 267% over two years.
At the heart of Carter Bank’s success is the impactful leadership of Mr. Bob Callicutt, the bank’s branch manager. Mr. Callicutt engaged management and staff, ensuring that every corner of the bank’s footprint in Guilford County had an opportunity to participate in the campaign.
Carter Bank approached their campaign with creativity and substance, adopting the theme, “No matter how you COIN it, we need your help! …And your coins too!” This theme was featured in a letter sent to each employee, outlining local challenges with statistics, anecdotes, and a clear and compelling description of the objectives and mission of United Way Greater Greensboro.
The tangible results speak for themselves – a 50% increase in the number of donors and a 24% boost in the average gift this year alone. Carter Bank and Trust’s recent campaigns reflect the true spirit of the award. Congratulations to Carter Bank and Trust on this well-deserved recognition and thank you for your outstanding commitment to making a lasting difference in our community.
“Carter Bank is proud to have been recognized with the Spirit of North Carolina Award. Our commitment to making a difference mirrors that of the United Way of Greater Greensboro. Together, we strive to tackle the challenges of life, creating pathways for prosperity that extend beyond the workplace and into our homes. Our partnership with The United Way of Greater Greensboro is a testament to our shared vision of uplifting the community. By focusing our efforts on eradicating poverty, we understand the importance of collaboration. It is a mission that demands the strength of many, and Carter Bank is committed to standing in solidarity with the United Way. Together, we are dedicated to opening doors for more individuals in the Greensboro area, working tirelessly to foster a brighter future for all.” – Carter Bank
Electric Supply & Equipment
Electric Supply and Equipment is the very definition of a small company with a big impact. With an excited and motivated Employee Campaign Manager, Heather Jean, this company consistently grows their campaign year after year. Implementing a highly engaged spirit week filled with a Kick-off Breakfast, Cook-off, Wacky Tacky Day, and so much more, the employees eagerly give because of the overall execution of the campaign. Concurrently, this company actively serves our strategic partners to drive the mission of the United Way home. Employees have participated in tons of service projects to truly understand the usage of their dollars. This adds to the success of their campaign. Electric Supply and Equipment has grown their campaign 2-3% every year since 2019. They are a testament to “living united.”
“ES&E is honored and humbled to receive the Spirit of North Carolina award. We love partnering with the United Way and are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community!” -Electric Supply & Equipment
Award Category: Building a Legacy of Community Engagement Through Volunteerism
Beacon Technologies
Beacon Technologies and its employees are champions of the United Way motto: Give-Advocate-Volunteer as can be seen with an annual commitment to give back, not only through an annual United Way workplace campaign but also through countless service hours to make Greensboro a better community for all. Beacon’s leadership has instilled and values a culture that emphasizes the importance of giving back through service.
As part of the BeaconCares initiative employees are provided service hours that can be used to volunteer at a number of nonprofits throughout the year and participate in supply drives for local agencies. Each quarter, employees are provided with a number of volunteer opportunities that represent a different quarterly theme of service such as “Serving Our Neighbors”, “Advancing Education”, “Helping Furry Friends”, and “Making Spirits Bright.” Each year, Beacon employees have an opportunity to volunteer their time or provide much needed supplies to 12 or more different non-profit partners over the course of a year including Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels, Greensboro Urban Ministry and BackPack Beginnings to name just a few.
Embodying what it means to Live United, the BeaconCares initiative “is the heart within Beacon that beats continuously to help others. We see it as a responsibility. Giving back is a part of our core DNA, whether it’s helping out local families and non-profits, contributing to our clients’ communities, or making a difference in the lives of Rwandan children and families.”
“At Beacon, giving back is one of our core values and we view service within our community as a corporate responsibility. Through our BeaconCares program, the Beacon Team continually donates, volunteers, and offers aid to improve the lives of people in the Piedmont Triad. We are very proud of our 25 year support of the United Way, making a positive impact for our neighbors who need it most.” – Tracy Dirks, CEO, Beacon Technologies
Award Category: United Way Community Ambassador
Jamiah Waterman, Esq.
The United Way Community Ambassador award, recognizes Jamiah Waterman’s outstanding contributions in two pivotal volunteer roles – his role as Board of Directors Chair of Human Resources and as Chair of the City of Greensboro’s United Way workplace campaign.
In addition to performing the traditional responsibilities of this role by setting policies, managing human resources matters, and providing invaluable insights into employee salaries and benefits, Jamiah went above and beyond in his board member duties by brokering meetings between the new United Way CEO and the City of Greensboro’s City Manager, facilitating discussions on the communities shared goal to end local poverty.
In his role as the Chair of the City of Greensboro United Way workplace fundraising campaign, Jamiah’s leadership was nothing short of remarkable. The City of Greensboro and Guilford County have a long history of partnering together to do joint United Way campaigns. However, this tradition has been dormant for more than half a decade. Jamiah was key in inducing excitement into this year’s campaign by reviving this tradition and organizing a successful kickoff event featuring participation from more than 25 City/County departments and United Way strategic partners.
The campaign’s achievements speak volumes – surpassing the 2022 campaign with $116,485 raised, doubling special event fundraising totals, and increasing the average gift size of City of Greensboro employees by an impressive 44%.
Amidst these accomplishments, Jamiah added a unique flavor to the campaign kickoff by bringing a now famed buffalo chicken dip, showing off his ability to infuse joy and camaraderie into community initiatives.
Congratulations, Jamiah Waterman, on being a true Community Ambassador, embodying the spirit of unity, leadership, and philanthropy that defines the essence of the United Way and the Spirit of North Carolina.
“I am deeply honored to receive the United Way Community Ambassador Award. I was born and raised in Greensboro. As a City of Greensboro employee I partner every day with thousands of co-workers who work tirelessly towards a brighter, more equitable future for all. I will continue to donate my time and money to the United Way of Greater Greensboro and enthusiastically encourage others to do so.” – Jamiah Waterman
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END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
Heather Milligan’s journey with United Way began in Concord, New Hampshire, in the early 1990s with what was then Merrimack County United Way. She started volunteering after experiencing deep gratitude for the benefits that United Way helped make possible for her family.
Her son, at age 3, was non-verbal and soon diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, on the Autism Spectrum. He needed extensive services including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy plus a number of special accommodations in the home. Through United Way, Heather was connected with Community Bridges who helped her to secure these services at minimal cost, which Heather says, she was “so grateful for since I barely made a living wage at the time”.
After experiencing the benefits first-hand, she felt compelled to “pay it forward” and volunteer with United Way to give back to others in the community. Over the years, Heather served in many ways including being part of the volunteer committees that review grant applications to recommend funding to the United Way Board of Directors for approval. When she left New Hampshire in 2015, the Merrimack County United Way had joined with other United Ways in New Hampshire to form the Granite United Way where they were making a broader and more effective impact through the power of collaborating to share resources.
In 2015, Heather’s job was relocated to Greensboro, and she immediately contacted United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) to see how she might serve and learn about the non-profits in this community. She began volunteering on one of our Impact Councils, which are groups of community leaders who are issue experts in Education, Financial Stability, Health Care, and Basic Needs. These volunteers review grant requests in a fair and non-biased way to ensure every dollar invested into the community is having the maximum impact—similar to what she had done in New Hampshire.
After a few years, Heather joined UWGG’s Community Investment Council, a committee of the Board of Directors, to provide direction on the strategic investments that our United Way makes. Such investments include Family Success Centers, the design and building of the Guilford Success Network, and Impact Area grants. In 2020, she was asked to join the United Way Board of Directors and in 2022, to lead the Community Investment Council as Chair.
Heather explains, “I give to the United Way because I passionately believe that everyone deserves the services and support they need to thrive and support their families. I volunteer with the United Way because I enjoy the connection to our community. It’s a joy to serve alongside a very dedicated and talented leadership team at the United Way, as well as with the Board and Council members who truly want to see us improve lives in our community—including lifting 3,000 families out of poverty by the year 2030.”
Local leader in Greensboro chosen as one of 12 inaugural participants of United Way Worldwide’s program aimed at building a stronger, more equitable future
United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) is excited to announce that its own Julia Thomas, Associate Vice-President of Development, has been selected to participate in United Way Worldwide’s new Next-Generation Leaders Initiative. The program is a highly interactive, transformative, two-year leadership development experience for early career leaders who are committed to United Way and the future of civil society.
Partnering with Institute for the Future, the Next-Generation Leaders Initiative incorporates custom research and training in strategic foresight, equipping learners to navigate large-scale change, uncover hidden opportunities, and take action for a vibrant future. Focusing on five key developmental areas—network leadership, community leadership, systems leadership, collaboration and communication, and learning and self-leadership—participants will learn vital cross-functional knowledge and develop future-focused skills, culminating in demonstration projects to benefit local communities.
“United Way of Greater Greensboro is proud that Julia Thomas was chosen to be a member of the inaugural cohort of the Next-Generation Leaders Initiative,” said Frank McCain, President and CEO, UWGG. “We are pleased that Julia has been recognized as a high-potential leader who demonstrates a future-focused orientation for themselves and for United Way. Participants of this program, like Julia, committed to the future of United Way and will shape the social sector to carry our mission forward in every community.”
Selection for Next-Generation Leaders Initiative is based on an individual’s performance, potential for leadership, eagerness for self-development, ability to commit to rigorous professional-development experiences, and interest in augmenting their effectiveness in addressing critical community needs. Applications are received from leaders serving in local United Ways around the world, and across all functional departments. Admission to the inaugural cohort was a selective process, with 12 learners chosen. United Way Worldwide aspires to develop 1,000 leaders in the program over five years.
“When we develop United Way leaders early in their career, communities become stronger,” said Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide. “These leaders bring the creativity, passion, and solution-oriented mindset to build a future where every person in every community can thrive. Through United Way Worldwide’s Next-Generation Leaders Initiative we are providing a platform for changemakers to further build their skills, knowledge, and professional network to create positive, equitable, and meaningful change in the world.”
Through this initiative, United Way Worldwide is preparing its leaders to address macro-level trends and issues in their states, nations, and the world at large, in addition to the micro-level needs and goals of their communities. Through its reach and depth, Next-Generation Leaders Initiative will exponentially elevate the power of United Way to serve thousands of communities globally. Funding to support this program has been made possible in part by W.K. Kellogg Foundation and United Way Worldwide.
Cohort 1 of the Next-Generation Leaders Initiative runs from April 2024 through March 2026.
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END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
About United Way
United Way brings people together to build strong communities where everyone thrives. As one of the world’s largest privately funded charities, we serve 95% of U.S. communities and 37 countries and territories, impacting more than 48 million people every year. Through United Way, communities tackle tough challenges and work with private, public, and nonprofit partners to boost education, economic solutions, and health resources. United Way is the mission of choice for 1.5 million volunteers, 6.8 million donors, and 45,000 corporate partners in thousands of communities worldwide in our second century of service. Together, we are building resilient, equitable communities across the globe. Learn more at UnitedWay.org and follow us via @UnitedWay and #LiveUnited.
United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) is excited to invite you to attend Conversations with Community Leaders featuring a panel discussion on Health Disparities and the Impact on Our Community on December 12, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Dana Auditorium, located at Guilford College. Make plans to attend UWGG’s last event of the year – which includes free lunch.
This free event is being hosted by UWGG’s African American Leadership and will feature a panel of community leaders addressing Health Disparities and the Impact on Our Community.
Featured speakers include:
Dr. Olu Jegede, Vice President of the Center for Health Equity, Cone Health
Dr. John Jenkins, Executive Medical Director School Based Healthcare, Cone Health
Deb Harris Richardson, President and CEO, YWCA Greensboro
Hugh Holston, CEO, Greensboro Housing Coalition
Doors open at 10:45 a.m. and the program begins promptly at 11 a.m. A complimentary boxed lunch will be served to guests immediately following the program.
The panel discussion with be led by Niketa Green, United Way Board Member and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Cone Health. AAL Chair, Rashanda Harris, Vice President MoneyGuard Underwriting & New Business at Lincoln Financial Group will serve as emcee.
Special thanks to the event sponsors:
Presenting Sponsor: VF Corporation Signature Sponsors: Guilford College Lincoln Financial Group Gold Sponsor: Cone Health Silver Sponsors: Cone Health Foundation Greensboro Housing Authority Bronze Sponsor: Triad Business Bank
END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
Thousands of Children and Families Are Expected to Attend United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Annual Trunk-or-Treat Hosted by Young Leaders
Greensboro, NC (October 19, 2023) – United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) and Young Leaders (YL) will host its annual Trunk-or-Treat on October 29, 2 – 4 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
Trunk-or-Treat is a safe alternative to traditional door to door trick-or-treating that brings the community together. Local volunteers, families, businesses, and student organizations are invited to decorate trunks in a festive, fall fashion and hand out treats for children in the community.
UWGG’s single focus on ending local poverty makes it’s Trunk-or-Treat event a joyful experience to staff and volunteers as many of the children and families that attend this event may not get the chance to celebrate and enjoy this occasion the way other kids get to.
This year’s event will feature fall and Halloween themed games, the presence of a police car and fire truck, and a station with free books and school supplies.
UWGG is asking organizations, neighborhoods, schools and more to host candy drives as that is its biggest need. If you would like to host a candy drive, contact UWGG’s Holly Beck by phone at 336-378-5022 or email: holly.beck@unitedwaygso.org
YL is an affinity group of United Way of Greater Greensboro, who are emerging community leaders committed to empowering and inspiring young professionals to lead community-wide change that ends poverty. To learn more, visit UnitedWayGSO.org/YL
END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) is delighted to introduce Steve Swetoha, President of the Greensboro Swarm, as its new Campaign Chair of its Board of Directors. The public is invited to meet Swetoha and new President and CEO Frank McCain Jr. at UWGG’s 2023 Campaign Kickoff on September 8 from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at The Terrace at the Greensboro Coliseum Complex.
Swetoha is starting his eighth season as President of the Greensboro Swarm, the NBA G League affiliate of the Charlotte Hornets, where he is responsible for all aspects of the team’s business operations.
An active member of the Triad community, Swetoha sits on several leadership boards, including the YMCA of Greensboro Metropolitan Board, the Member Engagement Advisory Board of the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, the Greensboro Sports Foundation, and the Greensboro Sports Council. He is the past Chair of Junior Achievement of the Triad.
“I’m honored to serve as Campaign Chair for United Way of Greater Greensboro and play a role in advancing the organization’s efforts to address and focus on the challenging task of trying to end local poverty,” said Swetoha. “I am hopeful we can inspire more individuals, businesses and organizations to participate by educating them on how poverty impacts our neighbors and our community.”
Prior to his arrival in Greensboro, Swetoha was the President, General Manager and Chief Revenue Officer of the WNBA’s Tulsa Shock for six years. He oversaw both basketball and business operations, where he was responsible for selling one of the largest jersey patch deals in the WNBA and led the team to its first winning season and playoff appearance in 2015. In addition, Swetoha has previous experience in the NFL, NBA, NHL and ACC in various business operations and sales roles. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree with a concentration in Sport Management from Robert Morris University, where he was elected to the Robert Morris Sport Management Hall of Fame in 2010, and his Master’s degree in Sports Leadership at Duquesne University.
Swetoha is married to Susan Shepherd. They have a daughter, Sophia, and a son, Matthew.
UWGG and Swetoha would like to invite the public to attend UWGG’s 2023 Campaign Kickoff and Breakfast on September 8, 7:30 – 9 a.m. to enjoy a free breakfast, mingle with diverse leaders, and learn how to join or continue supporting UWGG’s efforts to end local poverty.
END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
Frank McCain Jr. Selected by Board of Directors to Lead United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Poverty Efforts
United Way of Greater Greensboro (UWGG) announced today that Frank McCain Jr. has been named President and CEO and will begin leading the organization’s strategy to end local poverty on August 21.
The public is invited to meet McCain during a virtual lunch and learn, September 14, noon to 1 p.m. by registering at www.UnitedWayGSO.org/CEO.
Earlier in his career with United Way, McCain served for more than 10 years as Vice President of Community Investment and Impact. In this role, McCain was responsible for administering UWGG’s community investments on an annual basis to address human service needs facing the Greensboro community. Before starting his non-profit career, McCain held several positions in banking and financial services.
The process of searching for a new President and CEO started in April when UWGG formed a diverse search committee comprised of current and past board members. At the same time, UWGG announced it was working with Developmental Associates of Durham to conduct a national search for this role.
Developmental Associates helped the selection committee review applicants through a robust selection process that included written, phone and in-person interviews, as well as skills demonstration exercises led by Developmental Associates involving an evaluation by a team of trained community-based assessors.
McCain was selected and approved as President and CEO by the UWGG board of directors.
Michele Deuterman, Chair, UWGG Board of Directors, who served on the search committee said, “We are thrilled to have Frank rejoin the United Way team and look forward to the organization’s continued impact in our local community under his leadership.”
“I’m delighted to be chosen as the President and CEO of United Way of Greater Greensboro. United Way is uniquely suited to play a critical role in the advancement of our community. I look forward to continuing our partnerships and strengthening our collaborations with individuals and organizations that share our vision of reducing poverty in Greensboro. Our United Way will continue to use data to inform our decisions and we will look for innovative solutions that will yield our community the best return on the investment of their dollars. Together, we can truly Live United and in the process, build a lasting legacy for those that will come behind us,” said McCain.
McCain earned a Bachelor of Science from North Carolina A&T State University. He also has experience in the financial services industry where he managed assets of high net-worth individuals and corporate clients. His impressive experience also includes board memberships on the Greensboro Police Foundation, North Carolina A&T Aggie Athletic Foundation, Weatherspoon Art Museum, Better Business Bureau Education Foundation, International Civil Rights Center & Museum, YMCA of Greensboro, Reading Connections, Greensboro Chamber of Commerce, Greensboro Center City Corporation, and Greensboro Housing Authority.
Additionally, McCain is an Elder and member of the Presbyterian Church of the Cross, C. W. Lawrence Masonic Lodge, Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.
McCain resides in Greensboro with his wife, Reverend Vicki Hinton McCain. They have two adult children, Taylor, and Mac McCain. Taylor, a 2016 graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is the current COO for a privately owned snack food company in Miami, Florida, and Mac, a 2020 graduate of NC A&T State University, is a professional football player in the NFL.
McCain is the son of Franklin McCain Sr., an American civil rights activist and member of the Greensboro Four. The Greensboro Four are known for staging the lunch counter sit-in at the Woolworth store, now the International Civil Rights Center and Museum.
END LOCAL POVERTY: United Way of Greater Greensboro creates, connects, and leads community partnerships that equip and empower people to leave poverty. Nearly 52,000 children, adults, and families are living in poverty in the greater Greensboro area. Our strategy builds pathways out of poverty by: Helping youth transition from cradle to career, Helping adults land jobs and increase income, Providing access to basic needs and healthcare, and Bundling services that eliminate barriers at our nationally recognized Family Success Centers and innovative Guilford Success Network. With the community’s support, we will achieve our BOLD GOAL: As a community united in equity and lasting solutions, 3,000 households will leave generational poverty by 2030. The federal government defines poverty as a family of four earning $30,000 per year. According to local self-sufficiency standards many four-member households need to earn around $66,000 to meet basic needs without subsidized assistance. www.UnitedWayGSO.org
About Developmental Associates, LLC: Developmental Associates uses diverse teams in partnership with our mission-driven clients to identify and develop leaders nationally. Rather than relying on the traditional interview-driven approach to assess executive candidates, the DA team also designs skill-based exercises tailored to the actual challenges and situations facing the position, such as making presentations, writing plans, coaching staff, and running meetings. DA provides clients with the best information to make their crucial executive decisions by recruiting and training peer assessors on providing objective behavioral feedback and correlating those results with Emotional Intelligence.
I decided to share my story because of the help my mother and my family received from United Way when I was growing up.
If you’ve not viewed my story, please take a few minutes now.
Because of the support we received from United Way and other community resources, I was able to break the cycle of generational poverty. I was able to have a successful career.
I wanted to give back to United Way to help others be able to rewrite their stories- to be able to move from poverty to possibility – like I was.
After hearing my story, many folks have asked, how can I get involved? How can I make a gift? How can I join the movement to end local poverty?
So, thank YOU for your interest in supporting United Way of Greater Greensboro. Your gift will help local children, families and adults get the supports they need to leave poverty behind.
If you prefer to mail a check, please make it payable to United Way of Greater Greensboro and mail it to United Way, 1500 Yanceyville Street, Greensboro, NC 27405
You can also join an affinity or engagement group with an annual gift.
United Way of Greater Greensboro’s Affinity & Engagement Groups:
Young Leaders (YL) Membership is comprised of caring young professionals under 40 who contribute $120 or more annually to United Way of Greater Greensboro. Click here to learn more.
African American Leadership (AAL) AAL is comprised of caring citizens who contribute $500 or more annually to United Way of Greater Greensboro. Click here to learn more.
Women United (WU) WU is comprised of caring citizens who contribute $1,000 or more annually to United Way of Greater Greensboro. Click here to learn more.
To learn more about the affinity groups or volunteer opportunities, please contact Holly Beck at Holly.Beck@UnitedWayGSO.org or by phone at 336-378-5022.
Leadership Circles Membership is comprised of caring citizens who contribute $1,000 or more annually to United Way of Greater Greensboro. Click here to learn more.
Tocqueville Society Members contribute $10,000 or more annually to advance the work of United Way. Click here to learn more.
Thank YOU for your kindness and compassion to help rewrite our neighbors’ stories so they can leave poverty behind! So they can have a brighter future.
