НАШ ВПЛИВ
«United Way of the Piedmont» об’єднує місцеві некомерційні організації, підприємства та членів громади для вирішення найбільших проблем, що стоять перед нашим регіоном. Ми виходимо за рамки тимчасових рішень, щоб створити довгострокові зміни в округах Черокі, Спартанбург та Юніон у Південній Кароліні.
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ОСТАННІ НОВИНИ
In early November, I had the incredible opportunity to join 2,200 delegates representing 190 countries at the One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany. The annual One Young World Summit brings together young leaders from every country and sector, working to accelerate social impact. Over four transformative days, we participated in speeches, panels, networking sessions, mentorships, and workshops designed to equip us with tools and connections to drive meaningful change. I attended the Summit as part of a 20-delegate United Way cohort led by United Way Worldwide President & CEO Angela F. Williams. While we learned from speakers and peers across the globe, we also connected deeply with each other as young local United Way leaders, strengthening our network and shared mission. A Vision of Hope and Innovation The Summit filled me with hope for the social impact sector and our world. Being surrounded by passionate young leaders and experienced changemakers—all focused on making our communities stronger for everyone—was truly inspiring. We heard from community and global experts on challenges and solutions spanning education, climate, technology, and more. I was struck by the innovative approaches to tackling complex issues around the world and by how deeply intertwined our experiences are, regardless of where we come from. Whether a global CEO or young entrepreneur, everyone who attended shared a common desire: to enact positive change and work toward lasting stability and peace throughout the world. As Angela Williams powerfully stated in her keynote address, "Peace begins and is carried through in human hearts–in the choices that each of us make–when we connect with each other." Carrying the Experience Forward The One Young World Summit has shaped me into a more understanding, connected person and professional. I am deeply grateful to have been part of this experience and will carry the lessons I learned forward into the work I do every day for our community. As I wrap up my time as a Summit Delegate, I am proud to join 18,000+ other leaders as a One Young World Ambassador in our continued efforts to build a better future for our world. Abby Good is United Way of the Piedmont's Director of Communications.
This fall, our community showed what it really means to show up for one another. With the recent disruption in SNAP benefits, more families than ever have been turning to local food pantries for help. It’s been a stressful time for many of our neighbors, and together, United Way of the Piedmont and our partners stepped in to make sure no one feels alone. Our Fall Food Drive is always a big effort, but this year it took on new meaning. People and companies from across our region came together: donating online, packing boxes in person, and rallying coworkers and friends. Through the Roonga virtual donation platform and in-person collections, donors gave over $56,000 in food, which funded over 1,200 complete food boxes to our neighbors in Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties. All donations went straight to our community partners like The Bridge at Green Street, TOTAL Ministries, and Iron City Ministries to provide immediate support. When families are trying to stretch every dollar, a full box of food can make a huge difference. And this year, those 1,200+ boxes will help carry families through the months ahead. That’s the power of coming together. When asked why this project is so special, Libby Jensen, our Corporate Partnerships Manager, said: “Our community always shows up in a big way. Thanks to the generosity of our partners and neighbors, many local families have a little more comfort and a lot less stress this holiday season. This kind of care makes a real difference, not just for today, but for the months ahead.” Our 2025 Fall Food Drive reminded us of something important: when our community comes together, we really can make sure more families have what they need—not just to get by, but to move forward with hope.
The 2025–2026 Youth Philanthropy Board (YPB), a partnership between United Way of the Piedmont and Spartanburg Academic Movement, is made up of an inspiring group of 30 juniors and seniors from seven Spartanburg County high schools. This year’s Board Members are using their voices, insights, and strengths to make a lasting difference for youth across the community. Already, this group of YPB members have participated in a series of learning experiences such as Board Basics, Advocacy 101, Data Walk, and a Spartanburg Joint Funders Panel. Each of these experiences are designed to deepen their understanding of how philanthropy, collaboration, and data-driven decisions fuel positive community impact. Spartanburg’s Joint Funders include the Chapman Cultural Center, Mary Black Foundation, Spartanburg Academic Movement, Spartanburg County Foundation, Spartanburg Regional Foundation, and United Way of the Piedmont. The panel discussion gave students firsthand insight into how Spartanburg’s funders intentionally collaborate to strengthen shared outcomes and how each organization serves as both a grantmaker and a community leader. Also this fall, the Board has put their strengths into action by participating in United Way’s Fall Food Drive. Together, they rallied their schools and youth groups to fill over 40 boxes of food for families in need, demonstrating the power of youth collaboration and compassion in action. In addition to community service, students are learning about their personal strengths–whether in academic planning, leadership roles, community service, or team collaboration–to lead with purpose. Now, Board Members are putting their learning into practice by investing in local organizations. The Board is currently accepting grant applications ($500–$1,000) to support programs that improve outcomes for youth. Priority will be given to programs that focus on: Mental & Physical Health Academic Advising Career Readiness Financial Literacy & Security Improving Relationships Substance Use Prevention Texting While Driving Special consideration will also be given to programs that include meaningful youth involvement in design or implementation. Learn more and apply for a grant → Through this work, Spartanburg’s Youth Philanthropy Board continues to model what it means to lead with empathy, collaborate for impact, and use their strengths to build a stronger community.