UWRV’S DAY OF ACTION
A Day of Action for Gainsboro: Honoring a Neighborhood’s Historic Legacy
This past June, United Way of Roanoke Valley held its annual Day of Action, a powerful day of service that brings communities together for collective impact. This year’s event was especially meaningful, as it took place at the historic Gainsboro YMCA, a location rich in history and significance for Roanoke’s African American community. The Gainsboro YMCA, originally established as the William A. Hunton Branch YMCA in 1928, was the only YMCA available to African Americans in Roanoke and has been an essential institution in the Northwest neighborhood ever since.
This year’s Day of Action saw over 100 volunteers from the community and local businesses coming together to support these efforts. Volunteers prepared the building and grounds for a mural, engaging in projects like mulching, weeding, neighborhood clean-ups, and interior and exterior painting. Every task performed reflected the spirit of service and respect for the Gainsboro YMCA’s role in Roanoke’s African American history and its ongoing significance to the community.
We’re grateful to everyone who participated in this Day of Action, honoring a rich history and helping to shape a brighter future. Together, we’re strengthening our community and paying tribute to the Gainsboro YMCA’s legacy of resilience and unity.
100 DAYS OF CARING
Small Acts of Kindness Marks 100 Years of Service
To mark our Centennial, United Way of Roanoke Valley launched 100 Days of Caring—a summer-long celebration of community kindness, running from June 24 to October 2. This initiative encouraged Roanoke Valley residents to make a difference by participating in simple, meaningful acts of care that strengthen our community. Each Monday, we shared seven easy ways to spread kindness and positivity, inviting everyone to join in the spirit of giving back.
A few examples of these acts included offering to help a neighbor with yard work, picking up litter, donating books to a Little Free Library, or even just paying someone a heartfelt compliment. Each small gesture had a big impact, fostering a sense of connection and showing how everyday actions can add up to make a lasting difference.
100 Days of Caring followed our 100 Heroes campaign, where we recognized local heroes nominated by the community in the areas of health, education, financial stability, advocacy, leadership, and volunteerism. The 100 Heroes campaign highlighted those who serve as role models and leaders in Roanoke Valley. Together, these Centennial projects honored the power of community and showcased how each person can contribute to building a brighter future.
As we reflect on 100 Days of Caring, we’re reminded that small acts of kindness can have a lasting effect. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make our Centennial celebration one of community, compassion, and caring!
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Join our Family Councils Today!
• Who? Parents, Guardians, Caregivers of Children 0-5
• What? A forum to learn about resources and address potential needs.
• When? Occurring on a quarterly basis.
• Where? Hybrid, in-person, and virtual opportunities!
For more information on how to get involved, contact:
Email: families@uwrv.org
P.L.A.Y. CONFERENCE
Shaping Futures Together: Annual P.L.A.Y Conference Supports Early Educators
In a celebration of dedication to early childhood education, the United Way of Roanoke Valley hosted its annual P.L.A.Y. (Purposeful Learning All Year) conference at Northside Middle School in September. This empowering event, organized by UWRV’s Ready Region West team, brought together over 125 local early childhood educators for a full day of professional development designed to strengthen their skills, explore new teaching strategies, and inspire approaches that benefit the youngest learners in the community. Supported by UWRV for over a decade, the Ready Region West team is dedicated to improving educational outcomes for children across Roanoke Valley, and the P.L.A.Y. conference stands as one of its flagship events. This free, day-long event created a rich environment for educators to connect, learn, and collaborate. Teachers attended a variety of sessions that focused on the most relevant and impactful topics in early childhood education today.
“By bringing together educators to learn from each other and from experts in the field, we’re helping to build a network of professionals who are better equipped to inspire and guide young learners. We are grateful to all the educators who took time to invest in their growth and the future of the children they serve.”
Jessica Griffith Quality Improvement Coordinator
With the P.L.A.Y. conference, United Way of Roanoke Valley reaffirms its commitment to uplifting early childhood educators by providing them with the latest tools, insights, and inspiration to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives. UWRV’s Early Learning Strategies team plays an essential role in raising the quality of early education across the region, and events like P.L.A.Y. help ensure that educators have access to resources and support they need. The United Way of Roanoke Valley remains steadfast in its mission to foster an environment where every child has access to quality early education and a bright future.
AUGUST FAFSA CLINICS
Opening Doors to Opportunity: Uniting to Help Students Access Financial Aid
United Way of Roanoke Valley, in partnership with TAP, Goodwill, Project Discovery, and other local organizations, hosted a series of in-person and virtual FAFSA clinics to support students on their journey to higher education. As part of the national “Do the FAFSA” campaign led by the National College Attainment Network (NCAN), these clinics provided essential guidance for students navigating the increasingly complex FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) process, especially in a year marked by delays and additional filing challenges.
Nationwide, only 36% of the Class of 2024 had completed the FAFSA by summer—a notable decrease from last year’s 48%. To address this gap, the Roanoke Valley clinics were designed to boost FAFSA completion rates, offering students an opportunity to secure financial aid for the 2024-2025 academic year or get back on track for upcoming semesters.
The local clinics included eight in-person events at community locations like the Roanoke Higher Education Center, the Dumas Center, and YouthHQ @ Goodwill. For added convenience, online sessions were also available, giving students and families flexibility to participate. Each event provided hands-on support to help overcome common barriers, allowing participants to receive one-on-one guidance tailored to their specific questions and needs in completing the FAFSA.
United Way of Roanoke Valley extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make these clinics a success. Special thanks go to the financial aid staff from Ferrum College, Hollins University, Roanoke College, and Virginia Western, along with guidance counselors from Salem and Franklin County public schools, who provided invaluable support at the in-person events. Their expertise was crucial in helping students access the financial resources needed to pursue their educational goals.
Thanks to the combined efforts of community partners and dedicated volunteers, countless families are now closer to securing the financial aid and educational opportunities they need and deserve.
Thanks to the FAFSA Clinics 73 FAFSA-related transactions were completed.
UWRV MARKS 100 YEARS OF IMPACT AT CENTENNIAL GALA
A Century of Service, the Celebration of a Lifetime
On October 12, 2024, United Way of Roanoke Valley hosted a memorable Centennial Gala at the Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, and supporters to celebrate 100 years of service to the region. The event highlighted the incredible legacy UWRV has built over the past century and set the stage for the next chapter in its mission to create lasting change.
The evening’s festivities included dinner, dancing, live music, and a silent auction; however the highlight of the night was the recognition of several individuals and organizations who embody the values and spirit of UWRV. Seven honorees were celebrated for their exceptional leadership, service, and generosity:
Jean A. Glontz Leadership Award: Samantha Manico (not pictured)
F. Wiley Hubbell Award: Melinda J. Payne
Shining Star Award: Total Action for Progress
Spirit of Community Award: Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center
Centennial Legacy of Impact Award: Dr. Cheri Hartman
Centennial Legacy of Leadership Award: Kathy Stockburger
Centennial Legacy of Giving Award: Appalachian Power (not pictured)
In her remarks, UWRV CEO Abby Hamilton spoke about the organization’s vision for the future:
"As we look ahead to our next 100 years, we are filled with hope and excitement. Our commitment to creating positive, lasting change in our community will remain at the heart of everything we do."
As UWRV celebrates this monumental milestone, the organization remains committed to elevating the lives of all individuals and families in the region. Through the collective caring power of our community, UWRV continues to work toward ensuring self-sufficiency for everyone, building a stronger, more connected community where all people can thrive.
A CENTURY OF IMPACT
3.49 MILLION PEOPLE helped over the past century
OVER 85,000 VOLUNTEERS worked with UWRV in the last 100 years
OVER 5,000 FAMILIES on their journey to self-sufficiency since 2018
Helped community partners secure over $40 MILLION to strengthen essential programs since 2010 Assisted
OVER 1.4 MILLION DONORS over the last 100 years
$20 MILLION SECURED in government grants since 2010
$233 MILLION raised and reinvested in our community over the past century
56,000 CHILDREN received quality early care and education with UWRV’s support in the last 10 years
UWRV ANNOUNCES NAME CHANGE
New Century, New Look, New Name
A historic announcement was made at the United Way of Roanoke Valley’s Centennial Gala on October 12th. Starting in January 2025, the organization will officially change its name to United Way of Virginia’s Blue Ridge. This new name reflects the organization's expanded commitment to the diverse communities and individuals it serves across a broader region.
As United Way of Virginia’s Blue Ridge grows, the focus remains on elevating families to self-sufficiency through the collective caring power of our communities. "This name change reflects the full scope of our dedication to the people across our footprint in Southwest Virginia," said Kianna Price Marshall, Vice President of Advancement. "But our mission—fighting for the health, education, and financial stability of every person—remains the same."
The name change marks an exciting new chapter for the organization as it enters its second century of making positive impactful and lasting change throughout Virginia’s Blue Ridge. It signals a future where United Way is not only a resource for the Roanoke Valley but a dedicated partner for communities throughout Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
BUTTERFLY TRAIL NOW OPEN
Rocky Mount Community Park 315 Technology Drive Rocky Mount, VA 24151
Butterfly Walk, a unique sensory .75- mile trail designed to promote physical activity and mindfulness for individuals of all ages.
The Butterfly Walk is part of the broader Sensory Trail Project, which aims to provide individuals and families with an engaging, safe, and healthy outdoor space.
FASHIONS FOR EVERGREENS
November 29 - January 1
Be a part of the area’s most magical holiday tradition benefiting United Way of Roanoke Valley, Fashions for Evergreens! This holiday season visit Hotel Roanoke and vote for your favorite tree. Your vote is your donation towards your favorite tree. The tree earning the most votes/donations wins!
Vote by donating at least $5 and you will be entered to win an overnight stay at Hotel Roanoke.
Volunteers are needed to greet guests and assist with voting for their favorite treesmakes for a fun community service opportunity for families, civic or work groups.
The Community Fund (now known as United Way) is established with W.C. Stephenson serving as its first President and W.W Boxley as campaign Vice Chair.
1924
A social planning division is started to avoid duplication of services across agencies.
1940s
1930s
General campaign is canceled for 2 years because of the Great Depression. Once reinstated, it adopts the red feather as its symbol.
1950s
Botetourt and Craig Counties are added to the service area. The campaign reaches $1M for the first time.
1960s
Community Fund project helps 1,452 families during the holidays. The name changes to United Fund of Roanoke Valley.
1970s 1980s
On its 50th year, the organization changes its name to United of Roanoke Valley. Donors
Donors achieve first $3 million campaign.
UWRV launches Student United Way; and its first collective impact initiative, Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke (now Ready Region West).
UWRV quickly mobilizes partners and resources, establishes relief funds, and supports vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Smart2Start and Neighbors United are launched in response to growing need for childcare, and gun violence.
1990s 2010s 2000s 2020s 2024
UWRV marks its 75th anniversary. Minority Leadership Enhancement Program is launched, and outcome measurements are introduced to measure success.
UWRV launches Healthy Roanoke Valley and Bank On Roanoke Valley, and deploys its first Community Health Workers in the community. UWRV announces its vision to elevate 10,000 families to self-sufficiency by 2030.
UWRV celebrates 100 years and evolves to address the realities of ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families, and address areas of greatest disparity.
