Cary, NC -- Today, as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of United Way of North Carolina (UWNC), we honor a remarkable legacy of service, collaboration, and community impact. For three-quarters of a century, UWNC has brought people together around a simple but powerful belief: when we unite our resources, expertise, and compassion, we can create stronger communities and better opportunities for all North Carolinians.
The story of UWNC is one of neighbors helping neighbors. What began as a movement in 1951 to support local charitable organizations through coordinated fundraising and community investment has grown into a statewide network committed to improving lives across every corner of our state. Through economic prosperity and hardship, natural disasters and public health crises, changing demographics and evolving community needs, UWNC has remained steadfast in its mission of mobilizing communities to action so all can thrive.
One of the most significant milestones in our history has been the creation and growth of NC 211, a free, confidential, multilingual resource that connects residents to critical health and human services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Today, NC 211 serves all 100 counties, helping North Carolinians access food assistance, housing resources, healthcare services, utility support, digital literacy resources, caregiving resources, disaster recovery assistance, and much more. The program has become a trusted lifeline for individuals and families seeking help and hope.
UWNC has also played an important role in disaster response and recovery efforts. From hurricanes and floods to the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies, our statewide network has worked alongside local United Ways, government agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers to provide timely information, coordinate resources, and support communities on their path to recovery. NC 211 is recognized as a key member of North Carolina's emergency response system, helping residents find the assistance they need when it matters most.
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Throughout our history, we have also embraced innovation. UWNC has supported initiatives that connect individuals to benefits and services, strengthen digital access, expand caregiving support, and improve coordination between healthcare and human service organizations. Programs and partnerships such as MyFriendBen, Digital Opportunity and Literacy, Scam Prevention, and other collaborative efforts, reflect our commitment to finding new ways to help individuals and families thrive.
Today, UWNC works alongside 47 local United Ways and countless community partners to advance four critical areas of impact: Community Resiliency, Healthy Community, Youth Opportunity, and Financial Security. Together, we are building communities where children can succeed, families can achieve stability, older adults can age with dignity, and every individual has access to the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential.
As we reflect on the past 75 years, we do so with deep gratitude. We are grateful for the generations of volunteers, donors, advocates, board members, community leaders, nonprofit partners, and staff who have dedicated their time, talent, and resources to serving others. Their commitment has shaped the legacy we celebrate today.
Anniversaries are an opportunity to look ahead. The challenges facing North Carolina continue to evolve, and so must our solutions. We remain committed to listening to communities, fostering collaboration, embracing innovation, and ensuring that every North Carolinian has the opportunity to thrive.
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Together, we have accomplished extraordinary things over the last 75 years. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, healthier, and more resilient North Carolina for generations to come.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping us write the next chapter of United Way of North Carolina's story.
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Brittany Pruitt Fletcher
President & CEO of United Way of North Carolina