Some of us give strategically and look for the best return on investment in the community. Some of us are led by our hearts. There is no right way to give, but it is important that we all find what motivates us, so that together, we can improve the community we live in.

I give to the United Way of the Cape Fear Area (UWCFA). I do this because I have a passion for supporting local efforts. I am called to the vision of the of UWCFA: A united community where everyone is healthy safe and prosperous. I know in my heart that this is the type of community I want to be a part of.

Many of us give to specific organizations that have touched our lives. Giving through UWCFA is an option for these donors as well. In fact, gifts received through UWCFA can be used by these specific agencies to show a local match. In turn, these donations, or gifts, can then multiply (or in other words, amplify impact) by leveraging funding sources outside of our area that recognize the United Way brand as a legitimate match.

Many people give to UWCFA because they know they can get a social return on their investment that few organizations can deliver at the same magnitude. Others chose UWCFA because they support multiple causes and UWCFA supports 43 different program solutions each year in our community. The UWCFA brings organizations together to solve problems none of us can tackle alone.

There are many ways to give through UWCFA. If you have a passion primarily for health programs, you can designate to the Health Impact area. This option allows you to invest in healthcare gaps that ensure everyone has access to primary care, prescriptions, and mental health needed to maintain a community’s overall health.

Many of us have a passion for Financial Stability. This impact area is a portfolio of nutrition backpack programs, food pantries, life skills, and job programs. Being able to help a family from financial crisis to stability lifts our entire community up and supports a healthy economy.

The Education impact area is yet another option. Surrounding our youth with early childhood opportunities for learning, afterschool tutoring, and parental support can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Education programs ensure that we have a vibrant workforce that empowers individuals and attracts industry.

No matter how you choose to give, I thank you on behalf of our community. All of us have something significant to offer, whether it is time, talent or treasure. To have a healthy safe and prosperous community for everyone, it will take a unified effort.
 
United We Feed. United We Teach. United We Heal. United We Thrive.

For more information on how to support your local, independent United Way, visit: https://uwcfa.org/invest-in-your-community/


Tommy Taylor, born in Mansfield, Ohio, achieved his Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Guilford College, and most recently achieved his Masters in Public Administration from UNCW in 2019. Tommy’s career started as a Crisis and College Counselor at Massanutten Military Academy in Woodstock, Virginia. After 4 years, Tommy moved to his favorite vacation spot, Wilmington, North Carolina, and started his new career as the Regional Development Manager for Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC. Six years later, after tripling food distribution and doubling revenues, he accepted the Vice President of Community Impact position at the United Way of the Cape Fear Area. Now serving as the CEO, Tommy is thankful to be able to see the good side of the world that many people do not get a chance to experience and to be able to be part of the solutions to our community's deepest problems.