Empowering Young Leaders to Shape Community Change: Spartanburg’s Youth Philanthropy Board
November 18, 2025
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.
For many of us, there's a breakfast spot we remember from our childhood: a favorite diner, a familiar chain, or even a fast-food stop. Mine is Sugar & Spice in Spartanburg, but my family had a few places on our list of regulars. For us, eating out was a way to save time and stay connected amidst busy work schedules. We weren’t going for fancy meals–just affordable, comforting staples we could count on. So when I saw the news in recent months about some restaurants charging extra per egg due to the national egg shortage, it brought back those childhood memories. And I thought about how something as small as an egg could quickly become trouble for families with little financial cushion. It turns out, the bird flu has devastated the poultry industry, with over 145 million chickens culled since 2022 to stop its spread. The result? Egg prices have soared, hitting $4.94 per dozen this past spring with continued predictions of higher prices. For many, that’s just another inconvenience. But for the 42 % of households in South Carolina that can’t make ends meet , it’s yet another hit to a fragile budget. The rising price of everyday food items is just another hurdle for ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families with income above the Federal Poverty Level but less than the cost of essentials. ALICE works hard, often at more than one job, and still falls short. In fact, in South Carolina, a family of four with two adults working as a full-time personal care aide and stock worker/order filler, which are two common jobs, earns about $12,144 less than what’s needed just to cover basics like groceries. And it’s not just certain jobs. Across our state, more than one third of workers in the 20 most common jobs–cashiers, cooks, personal care aides, stock workers–live in households that can’t afford the basics and are forced to make sacrifices just to get breakfast and other meals on the table. That’s why we do what we do at United Way of the Piedmont. Our mission helps ALICE families gain financial security and keep them from slipping into poverty over something as simple as a rising grocery bill. Because for too many families, it’s not just an extra few cents per egg. It’s another crack in the fragile foundation they’re trying to stand on. When I think back to those Sugar & Spice outings with my family, I remember more than the food. I remember the warmth of the restaurant, the kindness of the wait staff who always seemed to know our orders, and the sense of normalcy it gave us in often uncertain times. That’s what stability feels like. That’s what we’re fighting for. Together, we can make it happen. Start by exploring the data at UnitedForALICE.org/SouthCarolina to learn more about ALICE families in our community. Then, join our efforts at United Way to help build a brighter, more stable future for ALICE and all families. Nicole Collins is a former AmeriCorps VISTA Member and serves on United Way of the Piedmont's Brand Experience Committee.
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 →
We’re excited to share United Way of the Piedmont’s 2024–2025 Impact Update: a powerful look at how neighbors in Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union Counties are driving change together. This Impact Update is far more than numbers on a page. It’s living proof of neighbors helping neighbors, our region rising stronger, and a shared belief that United is the Way to lasting change. Over the past year, we launched a bold new brand identity with fresh visuals and a messaging framework that reflect our renewed commitment to building a community where everyone can thrive. In this Impact Update, we lean into that new identity, and you’ll see how local support is fueling meaningful breakthroughs across our four impact areas: Healthy Community : Enhancing health and well-being for all Youth Opportunity : Supporting young people to reach their potential Community Resilienc y : Tackling immediate needs and crises Financial Security : Building a stronger financial future You’ll also find new data about Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed (ALICE) households and see how our Community Investment Process funds critical programs throughout our community. We invite you to dive into the full update, celebrate what you’ve made possible, and join us as we shape the future of our community together. Explore the impact:
Big things are happening in Union County, and they’re being led by the people who live here. Union Uplifted is a bold, community-driven initiative working to ensure every child in Union County has the chance to thrive, from early childhood through to a strong career. Launched in 2024, it’s built on one simple belief: when you listen deeply, work together, and center the voices of the community, transformational change becomes possible. A Plan Built by the Community Union Uplifted is not a top-down program. It’s a collaborative effort grounded in the experiences and insights of Union County residents. Over the past year, local leaders have facilitated 30 community conversations, engaging over 700 people from students to seniors, church members to school staff, small business owners to public officials. These conversations are shaping a comprehensive “cradle-to-career” roadmap that reflects Union’s needs and aspirations. Why Now? When new employers like MycoWorks moved to Union, it became clear that economic growth would require more than just jobs. Workforce development is deeply connected to education, childcare, transportation, and other social supports. And Union didn’t have a strong infrastructure in place to make these connections. That’s where this work began. Thanks to a major investment from the BlackRock Foundation and leadership from organizations like Union County Schools, United Way of the Piedmont, Spartanburg Academic Movement, and Partners for Rural Impact, Union Uplifted is building the infrastructure that supports real opportunity for kids, families, and the community as a whole. Listening First, Acting Next The first phase of Union Uplifted was all about listening. Those conversations revealed: Barriers to basic resources like housing, mental health support, and safe places for kids A lack of access to enrichment programs and career prepartion for youth Community-wide calls for dignity, trust, and respect in service delivery The ongoing impact of historical inequities A deep sense of pride, resilience, and readiness for change The next phase is already underway. Local partners are working with community members to turn those insights into specific goals and actions, from kindergarten readiness to career pathways. A new steering committee will guide this process, and local champions are stepping up to lead. What Comes Next Over the next year, Union Uplifted will develop a full community plan with clear strategies, shared results, and a long-term structure to carry the work forward. This isn’t just about a one-time project, it’s about building a system that lasts. That means new partnerships and more opportunities. Above all, it means a commitment to making Union County a place where every child and family can succeed. This is just the beginning. Union Uplifted is a story still being written, by the people of Union, for the future of Union. Learn more here →
The Youth Philanthropy Board, made up of 11th and 12th grade Spartanburg County high school students, demonstrates the power of youth voice in service. The Board makes decisions and provides funding to youth programs in Spartanburg while gaining invaluable experience as they work in partnership to lead and support change. This program ignites a future where youth are not just participants, but true change-makers. This past year, the Board reviewed 9 different programs and awarded a total of $5,000 in grants to six programs focused on youth mental health, education, and environmental sustainability. Board Members also participated in the planning, along with the data collection and analysis, of the 2025 Spring Breakout initiative, which brings Spring Break activities to local middle and high schoolers. These young people showed how their insights can shape meaningful change in their schools, communities, and futures. From expressing a desire to learn more about history, life lessons, and financial literacy, to highlighting the importance of safe spaces where music and creativity bring comfort, youth shared a vision rooted in both hope and honesty. Their reflections highlighted the importance of prioritizing mental health, physical activity, and opportunities for developing real-world skills. When youth were invited to lead Spring Breakout through feedback, activities, and even shaping program design, the result was overwhelming engagement, joy, and the creation of spaces where they felt seen and heard. These accomplishments remind us that when philanthropy elevates youth voice, it does more than support programs—it ignites the next generation of leaders, proving that hope lives strongest in their ideas and actions. “The pleasure of serving on the Youth Philanthropy Board (YPB) has gifted me a part of my purpose,” shared Shelby Clayton, class of 2026 at Boiling Springs High School and University of South Carolina Upstate Scholars Academy. “Being part of the 2025 YPB, I have learned what it means to show up for what you stand for. With the help of YPB, I have achieved my mission to be a part of a group bigger than myself. Now, I hope to build my own initiative to uplift the youth in our community.” Youth Philanthropy Board is an initiative of United Way of the Piedmont and Spartanburg Academic Movement. We're currently accepting applications from rising high school juniors and seniors in Spartanburg County for the 2025-2026 school year. The application deadline is August 29, 2025 . Learn more and apply here →
Spartanburg, S.C. (August 15, 2025) – As a new school year begins, it's a time of fresh starts and new possibilities for students across our region. Yet, many families face challenges in ensuring their children have the tools they need to thrive in the classroom. The 2025 State of ALICE Report shows that 44% of families in Spartanburg County—and even more in Cherokee and Union counties—struggle to afford basic living expenses. But there is hope. United Way is committed to helping families overcome these barriers, so no parent has to choose between essential needs and school supplies. United Way of the Piedmont rallied the community through its annual United for Students School Supply Drive, ensuring that students across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union Counties started the school year with the tools they need to succeed. Thanks to the generosity of our corporate partners and community members, over 2,800 students received essential school supplies this year. Each county increased its impact from last year, helping us equip even more students and classrooms: Cherokee County: In partnership with the Sheriff’s Office, over $12,574 in supplies were collected to support 320 students. Spartanburg County: Donations totaled over $71,000 in supplies, supporting over 2,300 students and their classrooms. Union County: The community came together to collect $9,439 in supplies, benefitting 240 students and their classrooms. United Way’s United for Students drive mobilizes local businesses, organizations, and individuals to collect and donate supplies like notebooks, pens, pencils, and backpacks. Our goal is simple: to relieve the financial burden on families and help every child thrive academically. "For students in Union County Schools, the United for Students School Supply Drive is a powerful reminder that they are seen, supported, and valued," said Stacy Farr, Director of Elementary Education at Union County Schools. "This support helps students stay engaged, builds their confidence, and helps create a more equitable learning environment. The impact of this drive goes far beyond school supplies—it uplifts our schools, encourages our educators, and brings our entire community together." United Way is deeply grateful to the many local companies, volunteers, and community members who stepped up to make this year’s drive a success.
"You do not need a title to be an advocate."
Sometimes, all it takes is one helping hand to change a life. That was certainly true for one remarkable student who recently found herself facing more than her fair share of challenges.
Where Health Starts When we think about health, most of us picture a doctor’s office. Maybe a hospital. Maybe even a medication or a diagnosis. But here’s the truth: health starts long before someone walks through a clinic door. It starts in our neighborhoods, our paychecks, our transportation systems, and our daily decisions about whether we can afford groceries this week. It starts with whether we feel safe at home, supported at work, and seen when we ask for help. These factors are the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). They’re not new. But they’re finally getting the attention they deserve. The World Health Organization defines SDOH as “the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work, and age.” In other words, it’s the full life around you that shapes your well-being physically, mentally, and emotionally. Research shows that up to 80 percent of a person’s health outcomes are determined by these social and environmental factors , not just access to clinical care. What does that look like here in our community? At United Way of the Piedmont, we see how addressing SDOH support our neighbors and their health every day: A student like Sam, struggling with trauma and grief, finally gets connected to a therapist and a dentist after years without care. A family in Union County gets help with rental assistance, avoiding eviction during a tough month. A senior in Cherokee County receives weekly wellness checks and grocery delivery from a local partner agency. A single mom in Spartanburg learns how to file her taxes through our VITA free tax preparation program and then uses her refund to catch up on bills and secure reliable transportation. These moments may seem small, but they change everything. Because when people have access to housing, food, mental health support, transportation, and income stability, they don’t just survive. They begin to thrive. Our community deserves that chance. Over the past three years, United Way of the Piedmont donors have helped fund 75 local programs focused on these critical needs, an investment of nearly $4.5 million in the building blocks of health. And this spring, 138 programs have applied for funding. They’re ready to do more. But what gets funded depends on what we raise right now. Let’s be clear: this isn’t charity. This is strategy. We fund the future by investing in what actually creates health, not just treating its absence. And we do it together. Because United is the Way we make systems stronger. United is the Way we connect neighbors to care. United is the Way we build healthier communities. Fund our community's future You can help fund what matters most. Your gift doesn’t just support one agency or one program. It fuels a coordinated, community-wide investment strategy to remove barriers, expand access, and support long-term health. Donate now → Help shape what gets funded through 2028—and what happens next for the people who call this place home.
