May 2026 newsletter
Strong communities do not happen overnight. They are built over time through shared commitment, investment, and trust.
That approach continues today. As community needs evolve, we are focused on investing in solutions that drive stability for families, especially in housing and mental health, while also strengthening the network of partners working alongside us.
Because of United Way of Greater Charlotte, there is a foundation. Because of that foundation, there is stability. Because of that stability, there is opportunity.
And because of that opportunity, our community is stronger. Be part of what comes next. Help continue building a stronger foundation for our community.
Kathryn Firmin-Sellers
President and Chief Executive Officer
People are also reading…
Celebrating leadership and service
We’re proud to share that Lula Jackson, one of our board members and director of Anson County Department of Social Services, was recently named Director of the Year by the North Carolina Association of County Directors of Social Services.
With 35 years of service to Anson County, Lula has made a lasting impact on families and the community. We’re grateful for her leadership and proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition. Inspired by leaders like Lula? Get involved and help shape the future of our community!
The need is real. So is the impact.
Right now in Greater Charlotte, too many families are one unexpected expense away from losing their home. Too many parents are choosing between rent and mental health care. Too many children are growing up without the stability they need to succeed.
Because of United Way of Greater Charlotte, that story is changing.
- 3,400 individuals and families received support on their journey from homelessness to stable housing.
- 621 households avoided eviction or housing loss.
- 223 households received critical repairs to improve safety and quality.
These are not just numbers. They represent real families who now have a place to sleep, a chance to heal, and a path forward. Behind every number is a family moving toward stability, and you can help make that possible. Donate today to support housing stability.
Listening to neighborhood voices
United Way of Greater Charlotte recently joined residents and neighborhood leaders in Renaissance West Community Initiative, Lakeview Neighborhood Alliance, and CrossRoads Corporation for Community Visioning and Listening Sessions focused on the future of their neighborhoods.
These conversations created space for residents to share their experiences, identify community priorities, and help shape solutions rooted in the voices of the people who call these neighborhoods home.
We want to hear from you
As United Way of Greater Charlotte celebrates 95 years of impact, we’re taking time to listen to the community we serve. We invite you to share your honest feedback about our work, community needs, and the future you want to see across our region. Your voice matters and your input will help guide our next steps. Click here to share your voice.
Breaking the silence around mental health
For one local business owner in Cabarrus County, supporting mental wellness is deeply personal. Motivated by personal tragedy and experiencing the impact of a mental health crisis within his own family, the owner of Minuteman Press on McGill chose to channel grief into action by supporting efforts that connect individuals and families with help before they reach a crisis point.
Through his support of United Way of Greater Charlotte and the Cabarrus County Mental Health Collaborative, he is helping strengthen community-wide efforts focused on reducing stigma, increasing access to mental health resources and equipping community members to recognize and respond to mental health challenges.
Because of partnerships like this, conversations around mental wellness are happening earlier, more families are finding support, and communities across Cabarrus County are working together to build a healthier future.
No family should face these challenges alone. Join us in supporting mental wellness efforts across Cabarrus County.
Partnering for housing stability
Through a fundraiser connected to the Truist Championship, Truist Financial Corporation made a $10,000 investment in United Way of Greater Charlotte. This support helps expand housing stability and access to critical resources for families across our region.
We are grateful for partners like Truist who are committed to strengthening our community and driving lasting impact. Helping the right families starts with understanding where the need is greatest.
Women United: A powerful network for change
Join a powerful network of women committed to creating lasting impact for families across our region. Women United brings together purpose, leadership, and philanthropy to support housing stability, economic mobility, and access to critical resources for those who need it most. Through volunteering, advocacy, networking, and collective giving, members of Women United are helping strengthen communities and open doors to opportunity for families across Greater Charlotte.
When women come together, communities grow stronger.

