OUR MISSION & goals
Our mission is to connect, engage and inspire people to transform our community.
Community transformation doesn't happen alone. Through our Community Impact Agenda and collective impact work, we connect people and resources to build a community where more families can be financially self-sufficient and thrive.
By 2030, we have a Bold Goal to decrease the number of individuals in our community living below self-sufficiency by 11,000.
EQUITY FOR ALL
At United Way of Piedmont, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and that means everyone. As part of our work in education, economic mobility, and health, we are committed to ensuring that the programs we invest in and the outcomes they generate are equitable. Our donors, clients, and community deserve nothing less.
Join our impact
Everyone has a part in community change! Learn more about all the ways you can get involved to make an impact with us.
recent news
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 .
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable tax credit designed to help low- to moderate-income working families, and it’s a powerful tool in the fight against poverty. The credit reduces the tax burden for eligible families and often results in a refund, which can help struggling families make ends meet, afford necessities, and even build savings. Many are still unaware of the benefits of the EITC, but it can make a big difference for millions of people every year, including those right here in the Upstate. That’s why we’re asking you to join us on Awareness Day on Friday, January 26, 2024. To qualify for EITC, a taxpayer must work and have earned income below a certain threshold, based on their filing status and the number of qualifying children they have. The amount of the credit decreases as income rises. The EITC is known for its anti-poverty effects. It can help working families with expenses such as housing, childcare, transportation, and medical bills. In addition, the refund received through the EITC can be used to create a savings cushion to help them deal with unexpected expenses or emergencies. Additionally, the EITC has been shown to improve the total well-being of eligible families. The credit has been linked to overall better health, especially among mothers and children. Having more money from the credit can mean access to better food, housing, and healthcare, which can lead to better health outcomes. The EITC isn’t just about helping families—it also helps the local economy. The EITC generates economic activity and supports jobs. When working families receive the credit, they often spend it immediately, creating demand for goods and services that support local businesses and create jobs. This awareness campaign is essential to ensure that those who qualify receive the credit. There are a variety of local organizations that offer free tax preparation services to low and moderate-income taxpayers, like our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program at United Way of the Piedmont. Learn how you may qualify to file for free and get help with your taxes at: www.uwpiedmont.org/freetaxpreparation . The EITC is a valuable tool for combating poverty, improving health outcomes, and strengthening the local economy. By understanding EITC guidelines and eligibility, we can better support working families and help them access valuable tax credits. Let’s work together to increase EITC awareness and support the hardworking taxpayers in our community.
