Spartanburg, S.C. (October 3, 2024) – With severe impact from Hurricane Helene in Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties, United Way of the Piedmont launched the United for All Fund earlier this week to respond. This fund provides immediate relief to families most affected by the hurricane, leveraging individual and foundation gifts to rapidly meet needs. Thanks in part to three significant gifts from the BlackRock Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation, and the Mary Black Foundation, the United for All Fund is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of local families. These foundation gifts ensure that we can offer essential services such as shelter, food, and financial assistance during this urgent time. The BlackRock Foundation, Duke Energy Foundation, and Mary Black Foundation have each contributed $25,000, creating a $75,000 matching gift for the United for All Fund. This means every dollar donated will be doubled to help families affected by Hurricane Helene. Claire Chamberlain, President of the BlackRock Foundation, said, “Our hearts go out to all who have been impacted by the devastation of Hurricane Helene. The BlackRock Foundation is committed to joining efforts with the United Way of Piedmont and the United for All fund to support residents of Spartanburg and surrounding communities in this time of immense need.” United for All support is making these efforts possible: Safe Places: Helping families, like a local couple whose home was damaged, secure temporary housing through Airbnb. Access to Resources: Responding to requests for assistance Clearing Debris: Coordinating chainsaw crews to clear private properties, making them safe for families to begin repairs. Providing Essentials: Launching drives to get food, water, and other essential supplies into the hands of those who need them. For information on how to donate to or find hurricane relief resources, visit www.uwpiedmont.org/unitedforall .

Spartanburg, S.C. (September 5, 2024) – On Friday, August 9, UWP celebrated the graduation of 13 AmeriCorps Volunteers in Service to America (VISTA) members. The 2023-2024 VISTA cohort had an economic impact of $2,070,622.81 and served a total of 34,156 individuals. AmeriCorps VISTA is a national service program dedicated to fighting poverty in local communities and organizations. VISTA members commit to a year of service with local non-profits, collaborating closely with these agencies to mobilize resources, enhance their capabilities, and promote long-term sustainability. United Way is honored to sponsor and support two AmeriCorps programs in our community: AmeriCorps direct service and AmeriCorps VISTA. During the August 9th program, graduating VISTAs shared about their impact, and program leadership awarded VISTA Supervisor of the Year to Jerry Rice at Benjamin E. Mays Family Resource Center. This year’s VISTA of the Year Sam Reinhardt was recognized at United Way’s Annual Awards Luncheon in June. Becca Waldorf, a former VISTA and the new AmeriCorps Program Coordinator for United Way of the Piedmont, shared, “This cohort made a tremendous impact in our service footprint with many of them moving on to pursue further educational opportunities or permanent employment. They have all shown a huge level of commitment to service and to their own personal and professional growth.” United Way is also excited to announce the following VISTAs for the 2024-2025 cohort and their respective service sites: Chelsea Cash, Corporate Volunteerism VISTA, United Way of the Piedmont Dora Rice**, Community Impact VISTA, United Way of the Piedmont Jaylin Madison, Marketing & Events VISTA, United Way of the Piedmont Sarah Blakely, Resource Development VISTA, United Way of the Piedmont Demecia Martin**, Community Development Associate VISTA, Benjamin E. Mays Family Resource Center Desirae Chitishvili, Community Engagement VISTA, PAL Horace McCollin, Community Engagement VISTA, University of South Carolina Upstate Jordan Fortune, Internal Strategy & Program Developer VISTA, The Bethlehem Center Julia Anhalt, Marketing Coordinator VISTA, ReGenesis Health Care Marlen Ramirez-Alvarado, Development Associate VISTA, St. Luke’s Free Medical Clinic Matt Hagen, Community Impact Data Coordinator VISTA, University of South Carolina Upstate Nicole Collins, Community Development Associate VISTA, The Bridge At Green Street Rachel Davidson, Community Engagement & Volunteer Coordinator VISTA, The BridgeWay Village Rebecca Nelson, Resource Development & Engagement VISTA, Greer Relief Sam Prescott**, Community Engagement VISTA, Converse College Samm White, Community Engagement VISTA, Converse University Tenille Black, Community Impact Coordinator VISTA, Strategic Spartanburg Tiraney Powe, Community Engagement VISTA, Spartanburg Academic Movement Tra Mills, Mission Advancement VISTA, KNOW(2) **Returning VISTA Check out more information about both United Way’s AmeriCorps programs at www.uwpiedmont.org/yearofservice .

School is back in session, and over 2,000 students across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties were able to get the supplies they need to succeed this year thanks to company and community donations to our Stuff the Bus school supply drive. Each county stepped up to increase their impact from last year’s school supply drive, helping us equip an even bigger number of local students and schools. Thank you to the many local companies and community members for rallying together to collect supplies, donate, and volunteer! In Cherokee County, we partnered with the Sheriff’s Office and received over $9,000 in supply donations to support 240 students. In Spartanburg, donations totaled over $59,000 worth of supplies, which served over 1,690 students and their classrooms. Union County collected $6,133 in supplies to serve 160 students and their classrooms. This year's drive was made possible by our generous sponsors at Owens Corning and Duke Energy .

Despite billions in economic investment over the last decade, Spartanburg ranks in the bottom 10% of counties nationwide for economic mobility. Movement 2030 is an unprecedented community-led initiative in Spartanburg to address this challenge. Designed by over 30 diverse partners, Movement 2030 is an evidence-based plan that seeks to substantially increase the number of Spartanburg County residents with college degrees and help close the academic achievement gap faced by students from low-income families. As one of the Movement 2030 implementation partners, United Way of the Piedmont is focused on supporting post-secondary strategy to ensure students are on their way to economic mobility and ready for careers through the Higher Education Community Resource Coordinator (CRC) cohort. The Higher Education CRCs help students meet critical needs, overcome barriers to financial self-sufficiency, and create pathways to stability. CRCs conduct intensive case management with students, including determining their strengths and needs, providing services, making referrals, assisting in developing self-motivated goals, and regularly following up to make sure students achieve their goals and persist through graduation. “Having a Higher Education Community Resource Coordinator on campus allows us to offer more in-depth services to students most in need of them. We are also able to multiply our resources to students by more efficiently tapping into other community resources to provide greater support for students facing other issues like homelessness, transportation issues, or mental health challenges,” said Courtney Shelton, Vice President for Student & Professional Development at Spartanburg Methodist College. United Way is proud to announce that Erika Pearson transitioned from a United Way Workplace CRC role to the Higher Education role in 2023. Erika now works with Spartanburg Methodist College and USC Upstate and has already made a significant impact on the students she serves. “Our Higher Education Community Resource Coordinator, Erika, helped our students navigate some truly challenging situations this year and put them on a path for success during difficult life events. We’re grateful for our partnership with United Way of the Piedmont and Erika’s commitment to our students and their well-being,” shared Allen Lollis, Dean of Students at Spartanburg Methodist College. Joining Pearson as the second Higher Education CRC is Sommer Means. Sommer works with Spartanburg Community College and Converse University students. “Knowledge is power, and as a Higher Education CRC, I'm happy to be a resource to those seeking knowledge so they can use that as a power tool to navigate their future,” shared Sommer. To learn more about UWP’s work in education, visit www.uwpiedmont.org/education .

On June 11, 2024, United Way of the Piedmont (UWP) held its Annual Awards Luncheon, a reimagined event that replaced our previous Annual Celebration. This luncheon celebrated individuals and organizations that supported UWP’s work over the past year and make a significant impact in our community every day. These award recipients are our supporters who transform lives and inspire change through their dedication. Award Winners We extend our heartfelt gratitude to these remarkable winners, who have gone above and beyond to support and uplift our community. Their contributions of time, energy, and passion are invaluable in helping us reach people in our community who most need help. Advocate of the Year: Scott Neely Presenter: Shauntè Evans Scott Neely has been a vocal advocate for community issues and UWP’s initiatives, carrying the banner of United Way with pride and dedication. AmeriCorps VISTA of the Year: Samantha Reinhardt Presenter: Dr. Bennie Harris Samantha Reinhardt exemplifies the spirit of the AmeriCorps VISTA program, embodying the values of volunteerism and service to America. Community Partner Award: One Spartanburg, Inc. Presenter: Mitch Kennedy One Spartanburg, Inc. has demonstrated exceptional commitment in partnering with United Way, helping to educate others about critical community issues and needs. Tom Barnet Award for Volunteer Service: Al Gauthier Presenter: Sarah Keim Al Gauthier’s dedication to our mission and his extraordinary investment of time have made a significant impact on our volunteer efforts. Tomeka Pierce African American Leadership Award: Marchele Garrett Presenter: Joey Fowler Marchele Garrett has greatly contributed to the success of our African American Leadership Society (AALS) and the mission of United Way of the Piedmont. Women United Award: Carla Benton Presenter: Sky Foster Carla Benton’s efforts have been contributed greatly to the goals of Women United and supporting our mission. Young Leader Award: Mary Kathryn Ward Presenter: Michael Langley Mary Kathryn Ward has been instrumental in the success of Young Leaders, helping to further our mission through her leadership and commitment. Congratulations to these winners! Learn more at www.uwpiedmont.org/annualawards2024 .

Spartanburg, S.C. (May 15, 2024) – On the morning of May 9, over 100 local leaders from Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties convened to celebrate at United Way of the Piedmont (UWP)’s Corporate & Community Leaders Breakfast. This annual gathering serves as a platform to honor partner companies and organizations whose steadfast support catalyzes transformative change within the community through United Way initiatives. Speakers from both local community and partner organizations included: Chris Santoro, Chair Elect of UWP’s Board of Directors and Vice President of Investments at MTM Management; Jaxon Lang, President & CEO of AFL; Reverend Dr. Sheila Elliott Hodge of Silver Hill Memorial United Methodist Church in Spartanburg; and Parkes Coggins, Vice President Heart/Vascular and Oncology Services at Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System and UWP’s Resource Development Chair. Paige Stephenson, UWP’s President & CEO, commenced the awards ceremony with heartfelt appreciation for each United Way partner. “By supporting United Way,” Stephenson shared, “you have the power to change lives, break cycles, and uplift our whole community. Today, we celebrate those who have shown exceptional commitment to this cause.” The 2024 Corporate & Community Leaders award winners were then announced: Large Business Partner of the Year : Contec Small Business Partner of the Year : Morrisette Packaging Public Service Partner of the Year : Wofford College New Business Partner of the Year : Toray Composite Materials America, Inc. Employee Campaign Coordinator of the Year : Jaculyn Ogle, Timken - Tyger River Chairman’s Award : Jeffery Sather, Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation UWP also recognized partners with exemplary campaigns for achieving Circle of Excellence status: Lockhart Power Johnson Development Associates McMillan Pazdan Smith Architecture Cate & Brough, P.A. Brown Packing Co., Inc. Spartanburg Housing William Barnet & Son United Community Bank  The collective impact of gifts and support from United Way corporate and community partners ensures more local families have the opportunity to thrive. UWP additionally wants to recognize the following companies as our Top 5 employee giving campaigns for the 2023-2024 fiscal year: 1. AFL: $626,607 Includes $465,062 in employee giving and an additional $161,545 in corporate giving 2. Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System: $319,036 3. Milliken & Company: $280,545 Includes $130,545 in employee giving and an additional $150,000 in corporate giving 4. BMW: $241,885 Includes $161,527 in employee giving and an additional $80,358 in corporate giving 5 . Denny's and Keke's Breakfast Cafe: $229,031 Includes $225,031 in employee giving and an additional $4,000 in corporate giving Amanda Richardson, UWP Vice President of Brand Experience & Resource Development closed the event by stating, “United Way is here with you. We are here to connect employers to their employees and to the community, to connect people who want to make a difference to the needs of our community, and to connect people who need help to the resources they need.” For more information about partnering with UWP, email giving@uwpiedmont.org .

United Way of The Piedmont is proud to announce it has received a generous grant from the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation. This contribution will benefit United Way’s Community Impact Fund, which focuses on the key areas of education, economic mobility, and health to support families in Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties. "We consider ourselves 'gap fillers' in the community," said Hannah Jarrett, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way of the Piedmont. "This contribution from the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation is the most powerful support we could receive, allowing us to be responsive to community needs while investing in programs that address the most critical issues." United Way of the Piedmont’s Bold Goal is to reduce the number of individuals living below self-sufficiency by 11,000 by the year 2030. The organization employs a Results-Based Accountability model to measure the success of their impact and programs, taking targeted action on complex social issues through a data-driven approach. “We are immensely grateful for the support of the Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation,” said Paige Stephenson, “This grant will enable us to expand our impact and strengthen our role in fostering positive change within our community. Together, we will work toward building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.” The Milliken & Company Charitable Foundation is dedicated to positively impacting communities where Milliken associates live and work through strategic financial gifts that align with the company's purpose, values, and vision. By providing grants to various community initiatives, the foundation upholds Milliken's values of integrity, excellence, innovation, sustainability, and people. For more information, contact millikengives@milliken.com .

Spartanburg, S.C. (April 1, 2024) – United Way of the Piedmont is pleased to announce the appointment of eight new board members who bring a breadth of experience and insight to the organization. United Way welcomes this new group to service, thanks continuing board members, and honor those who are departing after years of outstanding service. Welcome to the new members to the Board of Directors: Tony Acevedo, Smith Drug Company Brian Earnest, Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Julie Fowler, Spartanburg School District 3 Greyson Furnas, Colliers Kate Konopasek, Toray Michael Langley, Cannon Roofing Josh Thompson, Boulier Thompson & Barnes, LLC Nicole Caldwell, Nestlé Thank you to all the departing members: Rob Barrett, JM Smith Corporation : Governance Chair, 2018-2024 Jay Beeson, Mark III Properties : 2021-2024 Dawn Bingham, USC Columbia School of Medicine : Advocacy Chair, 2018-2024 Kathleen Brady, Community Research Group : Immediate Past Chair, 2018-2024 Todd Horne, Clayton Construction Company : Brand Experience Chair, 2018-2024 Lance Radford, Spartanburg School District 2: 2021-2024 Chris Santoro with MTM Investment Management will serve as the Board’s Chair Elect. United Way of the Piedmont thanks all departing board members for their commitment and contributions during their tenure. Their leadership and dedication have been instrumental in United Way’s mission to connect, engage, and inspire people to transform the community. "We extend our warmest welcome to our new board members and heartfelt appreciation to everyone continuing or leaving board service. This new group’s collective expertise and commitment will undoubtedly guide United Way of the Piedmont toward continued positive impact on Spartanburg, Cherokee, and Union Counties," said Paige Stephenson, United Way of the Piedmont President & CEO. View the full list of board members at www.uwpiedmont.org/boardofdirectors .

We are thrilled to announce our new Donor Network Advisory Board members for the 2024-2025 term. These individuals' diverse backgrounds, expertise, and passion for making a difference will help propel United Way of the Piedmont to new heights of success and impact. African American Leadership Society (AALS) is a donor group for those who give $500 or more annually and wish to connect with their peers and engage more deeply in the work of United Way. The AALS Advisory Board are leaders who want to elevate and empower the Black community. AALS New Advisory Board Members: Kensley Aiken – City of Spartanburg Wendy Bennett – American Credit Acceptance Natalie Hurd – Milliken & Company Kevin Rountree – BMW Selena Smith – United Way of the Piedmont & Live Healthy Spartanburg Vanessa Thompson - S partanburg Regional Healthcare System (Retired) Women United is a United Way donor group for donors who give $1,000 or more annually and wish to connect with their peers and engage more deeply in the work of United Way. Members have access to exclusive networking events, volunteer experiences, and educational opportunities. Women United New Advisory Board Members: Janet Cann - Spartanburg Water (Retired) Chandis Digby - Milliken & Company Sara Herring - Milliken & Company Ginger Shuler - Second Presbyterian Church in Spartanburg Hope Talley - Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Lucy Woodhouse - Wofford College Y oung Leaders is a United Way donor group for donors under the age of 40 or younger who give $100 or more annually. Young Leaders learn about community issues, participate in unique volunteer experiences, and join exciting networking events with fellow young philanthropists. Young Leaders New Advisory Board Members Heath Flood - Loop Recruiting Kara Mason - Johnson Development Associates Bryan Stallard - OTO Development Congratulations to our new advisory board members! Together, we'll continue to connect, engage, and inspire people to transform our community for the next generation of leaders. Learn more about all our donor networks at www.uwpiedmont.org/donornetworks .