What Volunteerism Means to Me and Why It Matters for Today’s Youth
April 20, 2026
Written by Anna Grace Kellam, United Way of the Piedmont intern and student at Oakbrook Preparatory School in Spartanburg
If you had asked me before I started volunteering what it really meant, I probably would’ve said something simple—helping others or giving back. But through my experiences, especially interning with the United Way of the Piedmont, I’ve come to realize it’s much more personal than that.
Volunteerism isn’t just about completing service hours or checking a box. For me, it’s been about finding where I fit in my community and realizing that even small actions can make a real difference. It’s easy to think that one person can’t do much, but volunteering showed me that change actually starts with individuals who are willing to show up.
One of the biggest things I’ve taken away is how much you grow through serving others. Yes, you’re helping your community; but, you’re also building confidence, learning how to communicate, and developing leadership skills without even realizing it at first.
I’ve seen how stepping into new environments and working with different groups of people pushes you outside of your comfort zone in the best way possible.
I also understand why a lot of teens hesitate to get involved. I felt that too. It can be intimidating to walk into something new, especially if you don’t know anyone. But what I’ve found is that volunteering actually becomes a way to meet people and build meaningful connections. You end up surrounded by others who care about the same things, and that makes the experience even more rewarding.
What really stands out to me is how volunteerism helps you see the world differently. When you’re directly involved in your community, you become more aware of the challenges people face and, more importantly, you start to see how you can be part of the solution. That shift in perspective is powerful, especially for young people who are still figuring out their place in the world.
Through my time with the United Way, I’ve seen how important it is to create opportunities for youth to get involved early. Programs like the Youth Philanthropy Board give students a chance to not only volunteer, but to take on leadership roles, work as a team, and make real decisions that impact their community. Having that kind of hands-on experience makes service feel more meaningful and shows that our voices matter.
I think a lot of teens first hear about volunteering through school requirements or clubs, but it shouldn’t stop there. There are so many ways to get involved-through social media, local organizations, or even just conversations with people in your community. The more we’re exposed to these opportunities, the more likely we are to take that first step.
At the end of the day, volunteerism has become something that’s part of who I am. It’s not just something I do—it’s how I think about giving back, connecting with others, and making an impact. And for today’s youth, that matters more than ever. We have the time, the energy, and the ability to create change. Sometimes, all it takes is getting started.
On March 26, 78 women from across our region gathered at Dillard's Spartanburg for a night of fashionable fun and lasting change. Women United's Power of the Purse event had it all: elegance, purpose, and many moments of connection. Over $6,000 was raised in a single evening to support local women facing housing insecurity right here in our tri-county footprint. Every purse bid, raffle ticket, and ticket purchased added up to resources, stability, and hope for neighbors who need it most. "Evenings like this remind us why we do this work," said Taylor Miller, United Way of the Piedmont. "When I looked around that space and saw those incredible women raising money, laughing, and giving — all for a neighbor they may never meet — that's the power of this community." Power of the Purse is one night, but the work of Women United goes on. Women United is a strong local community of women who use their strength to lift others up through year-round philanthropy and engagement . In addition to their hard work, this event was a success because of our amazing sponsors, purse donors, and every single woman who bought a ticket, brought a friend, and showed up ready to give. This year’s Power of the Purse was just the beginning, and we’re excited to see what we do together next. Special thanks to our 2026 Power of the Purse sponsors: Prada: Dillard’s Spartanburg Kate Spade: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Coco Chanel: Jeter Hrubula Wealth Strategies
The Foundation On November 15, 1936, a group of community members and local agencies gathered in Spartanburg with a shared question: What if we started working together to meet local needs? Out of that gathering, the United Campaign in Spartanburg was born, which was a collective effort to fill gaps in services and raise funds for the good of all.
Tax season can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you or someone you serve needs help filing taxes this year, there are trusted, free resources available for people right here in our community. In-Person Tax Help Through VITA Our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) clinics are open through mid-April and ready to help. Through the IRS-supported VITA program, households earning $67,000 or less per year can receive free, in-person tax preparation assistance from IRS-certified staff and volunteers. This service helps ensure returns are filed accurately and that families receive the credits and refunds they’re eligible for. Appointments are available for eligible individuals and families living in Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties. To schedule an appointment, call 2-1-1 or 1-866-892-9211. Prefer to File From Home? For households earning under $89,000 annually, free online filing is available through MyFreeTaxes.com. This secure, easy-to-use platform allows individuals and families to file both federal and state taxes at no cost from the comfort of home. Last-Minute Tax Clinic: Walk-Ins Welcome Need help close to the deadline? Our team and volunteers will provide a Last-Minute Tax Clinic in April for anyone who needs support before Tax Day. No appointment necessary—just come by during clinic hours for assistance. Find the details below: CC Woodson April 14 from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Walk-ins accepted all day Learn More & Share Accurate tax filing can mean larger refunds, access to valuable tax credits, and greater financial security for local families. Please share this information widely with clients, neighbors, and community members who may benefit. Additional information can be found here →
On January 19, over 400 volunteers across Spartanburg County came together for United Way of the Piedmont’s annual MLK Day of Service, collectively contributing 933 hours of service. Hosting this event for over a decade, United Way of the Piedmont has been able to provide support to over 16 non-profit and community partners. Hands-on projects ranging from trail cleanups to period kit packing provided volunteers with the opportunity to come together and support the organizations strengthening our community. Amanda Richardson, Vice President of Brand Experience at United Way of the Piedmont, volunteered alongside her children to create artwork for women and children preparing to move into Bridgeway Village. Reflecting on the importance of serving on MLK Day, Richardson shared, “Giving back—especially on MLK Day—matters deeply to me. It’s a powerful opportunity to show my children that showing up for our neighbors can take many different forms.” United Way of the Piedmont extends a heartfelt thank you to the incredible volunteers who showed up, served, and made an impact this MLK Day. Your dedication and compassion showed our community that United Is the Way. We can’t wait to come together again for next year’s Day of Service on Monday, January 18, 2027.
United Way of the Piedmont Announces $1.14 Million Annual Investment in Local Programs for 2026–2028
Spartanburg, S.C. (January 13, 2026) –United Way of the Piedmont (UWP) is proud to announce an annual investment of $1,140,000 in 47 nonprofit organizations across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union Counties for the 2026–2028 funding cycle. These investments mark another step forward in advancing UWP’s long-term Community Impact Agenda and commitment to addressing the root causes of local challenges through strategic, results-driven funding. For the upcoming cycle, UWP will make the following annual investments in the region: $111,842 in 16 programs in Cherokee County $922,070 in 37 programs in Spartanburg County $106,088 in 16 programs in Union County This investment follows a highly competitive community review process. 85 agencies submitted 138 Letters of Intent, requesting nearly $4.85 million in annual funding. To guide investment decisions, UWP convened one Community Investment Review Committee, representing the entire tri-county area. This group applied a structured assessment process to evaluate program effectiveness, fiscal soundness, and alignment with UWP’s strategic framework. “Our investment process is an intentional, data-driven effort that takes about a year to complete,” said Sarah Daniel, Senior Director of Partnerships & Investments. “We don’t just fund programs—we invest in impact. Every dollar is directed where it can create the most measurable change for our community.” The review process began in early 2025 with information sessions and letters of intent, followed by full applications, site visits, and extensive Q&A sessions before final funding decisions in December. New funding will begin in January 2026. As outlined in its Community Impact Agenda, UWP focuses on investing deep rather than wide—prioritizing proven programs with clear outcomes over spreading limited resources thinly across numerous initiatives. This approach ensures that each investment drives transformative change for the region’s most pressing needs. UWP upholds a commitment to county-level equity, measurable outcomes, fiscal stewardship, and sustainability. In addition to the core investment cycle, UWP continues to lead and support collaborative initiatives aligned with its impact goals, including: A Place to Call Home (Spartanburg County) Spartanburg Long Term Recovery Group Movement 2030 Union Uplifted Collective Community-Wide Mental & Behavioral Health Plan for Spartanburg County Live Healthy Spartanburg Strategic Spartanburg, Inc. Spartanburg Shared Futures Collaborative United for ALICE Through these strategic investments and partnerships, United Way of the Piedmont continues to strengthen the community and drive sustainable impact across the region. View a full list of 2026-2028 Community Investment funded programs here.
Spartanburg, S.C. (January 1, 2026) –Following a powerful showing of community service last year, United Way of the Piedmont is once again calling on residents across Cherokee, Spartanburg, and Union counties to come together for its annual MLK Day of Service on Monday, January 19, 2026. Part of the nationwide initiative to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. ‘s legacy of giving back, MLK Day of Service has been led locally by United Way of the Piedmont for more than a decade, connecting volunteers with meaningful projects that strengthen nonprofit partners and neighborhoods. “Dr. King believed deeply in collective action and shared responsibility,” said Marissa Human, Director of Events & Projects. “This day is about honoring his legacy by showing up for our neighbors and turning service into impact.” This year’s event will again honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision by showing that United is the Way to make a difference. In 2025, more than 450 volunteers united to serve their community by cleaning trails, building playgrounds, packing period kits, and supporting nonprofits with other hands-on projects. United Way of the Piedmont expects hundreds of volunteers to once again answer the call to serve in 2026. “When our community comes together like this, the impact reaches far beyond a single day,” said Sarah Daniel, Senior Director of Partnerships and Investments. “It strengthens nonprofits, supports families, and reminds us that change happens when we choose to serve—together.” Volunteer registration is now open, and individuals, families, student groups, faith-based organizations, and corporate teams are encouraged to participate. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, visit uwpiedmont.org/mlkday . Our 2026 MLK Day of Service is generously sponsored by AFL.
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.
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.
