Written by Anna Grace Kellam, United Way of the Piedmont intern and student at Oakbrook Preparatory School in Spartanburg If you had asked me before I started volunteering what it really meant, I probably would’ve said something simple—helping others or giving back. But through my experiences, especially interning with the United Way of the Piedmont, I’ve come to realize it’s much more personal than that. Volunteerism isn’t just about completing service hours or checking a box. For me, it’s been about finding where I fit in my community and realizing that even small actions can make a real difference. It’s easy to think that one person can’t do much, but volunteering showed me that change actually starts with individuals who are willing to show up. One of the biggest things I’ve taken away is how much you grow through serving others. Yes, you’re helping your community; but, you’re also building confidence, learning how to communicate, and developing leadership skills without even realizing it at first.

On March 26, 78 women from across our region gathered at Dillard's Spartanburg for a night of fashionable fun and lasting change. Women United's Power of the Purse event had it all: elegance, purpose, and many moments of connection. Over $6,000 was raised in a single evening to support local women facing housing insecurity right here in our tri-county footprint. Every purse bid, raffle ticket, and ticket purchased added up to resources, stability, and hope for neighbors who need it most. "Evenings like this remind us why we do this work," said Taylor Miller, United Way of the Piedmont. "When I looked around that space and saw those incredible women raising money, laughing, and giving — all for a neighbor they may never meet — that's the power of this community." Power of the Purse is one night, but the work of Women United goes on. Women United is a strong local community of women who use their strength to lift others up through year-round philanthropy and engagement . In addition to their hard work, this event was a success because of our amazing sponsors, purse donors, and every single woman who bought a ticket, brought a friend, and showed up ready to give. This year’s Power of the Purse was just the beginning, and we’re excited to see what we do together next. Special thanks to our 2026 Power of the Purse sponsors: Prada: Dillard’s Spartanburg Kate Spade: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Coco Chanel: Jeter Hrubula Wealth Strategies