United Way History - A Timeline
United Way of Greater Greensboro began in response to the money-raising techniques established during World War I.
1922
First called the Greensboro Community Chest, its initial campaign in 1922 under the leadership of H. Smith Richardson raised approximately $68,000.
1940
In 1940 the first campaign goal was achieved. By this time the number of member agencies had risen to fourteen.
1954
In 1954, (and again in 1963, 1967 and 1976) successful capital funds campaigns for participating agencies were conducted, resulting in new construction projects totaling more than four million dollars.
1957
The Chest became the United Fund. The administrative headquarters of the organization was located in the Ceaser Cone memorial building. This structure, which was located at 1301 N. Elm Street, was built from funds left to the community through bequests of the Cone family.
1969
In 1969, upon recommendation by a committee of community leaders, the United Fund and Community Council were merged into a single organization, the United Community Services.
1974
In May 1974, to conform to the national trend, the name United Way of Greater Greensboro was adopted.
1992
In 1992, United Way of Greater Greensboro moved into a new facility at 1500 Yanceyville Street. The building was paid for through a donation from Sidney Stern, Jr. and the proceeds from the sale of the 1301 N. Elm Street facility.
1994
United Way assumed the referral service responsibility for all of Guilford County in 1994, creating a Community Services Division with the establishment of the United Way In Touch Referral Service, now known as 2-1-1.
2004
United Way of Greater Greensboro conducted a community-wide needs assessment to determine pressing community needs to be addressed by United Way and a host of other nonprofits and foundations. Out of the needs assessment came United Way's areas of focus: Growing Successful Kids, Helping People Help Themselves, and Caring for Everyone's Health. These priorities exist today and closely align with United Way of America's national priorities that support the building blocks for a good life: Education, Income & Health.
2009
The second comprehensive health and human services assessment for Greater Greensboro, Voices. Choices., was conducted. Four issues came to the forefront and were recommended by the Voices. Choices. Steering Committee:
- Improving the Financial Stability of Individuals and Families
- Access to Comprehensive Health Care Services
- Successful School Experiences for Every Child
- Nurturing Children and Youth for Positive Development
2012
With the input of many stakeholders, United Way of Greater Greensboro Board of Directors approves new funding objectives to be implemented in the 2013-2014 allocation cycle.
