Cary, NC -- Earlier this month, over 400 United Way employees came together in North Charleston, SC for our Southeast Regional Conference (SERC). Coming out of the convening, I’m carrying a deep sense of pride and connection. This year’s gathering felt especially meaningful. Not just because of the ideas exchanged, but because of the people who showed up with such heart and purpose.
430 attendees at the Southeast Regional Conference in North Charleston, SC
One of the highlights for me was seeing 44 local United Way leaders from across North Carolina in the room. Their presence spoke volumes about our state’s commitment to collaboration and to strengthening the United Way network across the Southeast. Being together reminded me how powerful it is when we step out of our day‑to‑day work and reconnect with the broader movement we’re part of to help our communities thrive.
I was also honored to participate in a panel alongside David Christie of Prezzee, Sydney Ashworth of GoFundMe.org, and Angela Collins of United Way of the CSRA, on Hurricane Helene relief and long‑term recovery, a topic that continues to shape the lives of so many North Carolinians. The conversation reinforced something I see every day: United Ways are uniquely positioned to respond quickly, stay engaged long after the headlines fade, and coordinate the partnerships that make true recovery possible. Hearing how other states are navigating similar challenges gave me fresh energy and new ideas to bring home.
SERC’s theme, “Charting the Course” felt fitting in United Way’s focus on innovation, community alignment, and the evolving role of United Way in a changing landscape. That theme echoed throughout every session I attended. Whether we were discussing ALICE data, fundraising trends, or community impact strategies, the message was clear: We are building a future that demands both courage and collaboration.
Sally Gordon and David Mercado of United Way of NC speaking in a session about their involvement in United Way's Next-Gen program.
What I appreciated most was the honesty in the room. People shared openly about what’s working, what’s not, and where we need to push ourselves. That kind of transparency is what strengthens our network and helps us grow as leaders.
To everyone who attended, presented, or supported this conference: thank you. Your engagement is what makes this gathering so valuable year after year. And to our North Carolina delegation: you made me incredibly proud. Your leadership, curiosity, and commitment to your communities were evident in every conversation.
As we return to our local work, I hope we carry forward the momentum and connection we built in North Charleston. Let’s continue to learn from one another, challenge ourselves, and stay bold in our vision for the future.
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The SERC Planning Committee coming together after 18 months of strategic and logistical planning!
I want to extend my gratitude to everyone who contributed: Presenters, facilitators, attendees, and the incredible Planning Committee that made the event possible. Your leadership and engagement are what make this conference so valuable year after year.
Thank you for the work you do every day and for the passion you bring to improving lives across the Southeast.
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