Each year, United Way of the Piedmont presents the Morgan Award to a donor who exemplifies the spirit of its inscription: “One Who Cares.” This year, United Way is proud to honor Board Member Reed Brown whose quiet strength and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on our local community. Reed is not one to seek the spotlight, but his actions speak louder than words. Whether through his professional work or personal generosity, Reed consistently demonstrates what it means to lead with heart. His dedication to Cherokee County is evident in many ways, from helping establish the Benjamin E. Mays Family Resource Center to opening the doors of Brown Packing for supply drives and encouraging his employees to engage with United Way. Together with his wife Suzanne, Reed leads by example as a United Way of the Piedmont Tocqueville Society donor. When Hurricane Helene struck, Reed was among the first to respond, ensuring immediate needs were met. His service extends across many organizations, including KNOW(2)’s Education Taskforce, Girl Scouts,, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Gaffney Rotary Club. Reed embodies the spirit of community stewardship. He believes in the power of his workplace to make a difference and continually finds meaningful ways to give back. Leaders like Reed ensure more families have the resources they need to thrive and help our community grow stronger every day. United Way presented Reed with the award at their annual Leadership Reception on October 2. After receiving the award, Reed shared, “As I look around at all of you...who care so much about what is good and honorable and just and right, me being described one who cares among this group is an honor beyond measure. All of you make it easy to care, because I want to be like you.” United Way extends its congratulations to Reed Brown. His leadership reminds our community of the profound impact one person can have when they truly care.

When Hurricane Helene struck our region on September 27, 2024, the devastation was swift and widespread. But so was the response. United Way of the Piedmont, in partnership with local organizations, sprang into action to meet urgent needs. We launched the United for All Disaster Relief Fund, organized a community-wide supply drive, and mobilized volunteers to assist with cleanup and rebuilding efforts. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters and the tireless work of our team, we provided direct support to 690 local households, totaling more than $421,000 to help families find housing and regain stability. Long-Term Recovery: Rebuilding Stronger Disaster recovery doesn’t end when the skies clear. It’s a long journey, and United Way is committed to walking it alongside our community. That’s why we’re a core partner in the Spartanburg Long-Term Recovery Group, a coalition focused on sustained recovery and future resilience. United Way will support the group’s new Mitigation & Recovery Specialist, who will lead coordination efforts to rebuild homes and strengthen our community’s preparedness for future disasters. So far, 159 home repair applications have been approved, and we’re working diligently to move these projects forward. A Neighbor’s Story of Hope We have neighbors who are still on the path to rebuilding after the storm. One powerful example is an 82-year-old widow who was forced to evacuate her flooded home. For months, she lived in uncertainty, displaced and unsure of what the future held. Through the support of the Long-Term Recovery Group and United Way, she is now on track to have her home repaired and her life restored. Her story is just one of many that reflect the heart of this partnership: helping our neighbors recover, rebuild, and thrive. Together, we’re ensuring that no one is left behind. Support ongoing disaster recovery efforts in our community → Impacted by Hurricane Helene and need resources? Learn more →