WHO WE ARE
At United Way of Caldwell County, we’re not just addressing our county's most daunting issue; we’re building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community for everyone. By developing strategic partnerships, we tackle our most significant challenges head-on and create lasting solutions that benefit all.
Our Impact
Immediate Support, Long-term Change
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Basic Needs: We ensure that the most vulnerable members of our community have access to essential services.
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Sustainable Investments: By focusing on health, education, financial stability, and basic needs, we lay the groundwork for a better future for all.
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NC 211: NC 211 is a free, confidential service provided by United Way. By dialing 2-1-1, you can access information and referrals for health and human services across the state, including Basic Needs: Food, housing, and utility assistance; Health Services: Medical and mental health support; Financial Assistance: Expense management and employment help; Family Support: Child care and elder care resource, Disaster Relief: Emergency and natural disaster guidance. It is available 24/7. NC 211 connects you to local agencies and programs tailored to your needs.
Direct Service Programs
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Weekend Food Backpack Program: This program helps six Caldwell County schools by providing weekend food backpacks to students in need, ensuring they have nutritious meals.
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Classroom United: Formerly known as Teacher Treasures, this initiative provides free school supplies to Caldwell County teachers, supporting their students and classrooms.
Mission-Driven Excellence
The Mission of the United Way of Caldwell County is to measurably improve the lives of both individuals and families in Caldwell County by uniting the resources of donors, volunteers, agencies, and the community while maintaining the highest level of integrity and accountability.
Our Key Impact Areas
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Youth Opportunity: Helping young people realize their full potential.
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Healthy Community: Improving health and wellbeing for all
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Financial Stability: Creating a stronger financial future for every generation
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Community Resiliency: Addressing urgent needs today for a better tomorrow.
Your Contribution Matters
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Community Success: Every donation and volunteer effort leads to tangible improvements. When a student excels, when a neighborhood revitalizes, when families thrive, and when individuals secure good jobs, we all win.
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Collaborative Power: Join a network of passionate, skilled, and resourceful individuals and organizations. Together, we achieve what none of us can do alone.
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Efficiency: Your donations are effectively leveraged to fund innovative programs with proven outcomes. We support 15 local agencies that must demonstrate measurable success to receive funding.
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Local Focus: Every dollar you give stays within Caldwell County, directly helping your neighbors.
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Connection: Your investment connects you to a vast network of businesses, volunteers, and community leaders, amplifying your impact.
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Long-lasting Results: Your support drives lasting change, creating a more vibrant and resilient community for generations to come.
Be Part of the Solution
Join us in making a meaningful difference. Whether you choose to donate or volunteer, your contribution is crucial. Together, we can create a community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
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WHO WE ARE
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United Way of Caldwell County Staff
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Kathy Austin, Executive Director
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United Way of Caldwell County Board of Directors
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Sara Wert - President
Entrepreneur
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Jon Blair - Treasurer
Skyline Bank
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Justin Barber
Western Electric
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Allison Butler
Delk4Law
Lindsey Cox
Cornerstone United
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Jordan Jefferies-James
Caldwell County Health Department
​Hannah Morrison
Lenoir Housing Authority
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Hannah Romero
Caldwell County Smart Start
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William Romero
Caldwell County Schools
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Susan Strawn
Retired State Employee​
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Brianna Wert
WPCOG
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Honorary (Lifetime) Board Members
In remembrance and gratitude, we honor the memory of the dedicated leaders
below who served the United Way of Caldwell County with distinction.
Their vision, compassion, and commitment to our community
continue to inspire our work today.
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Mr. James Harper
Ms. Winifred Harding
Mr. Robert (Bob) Zendel
Ms. Gerry Bair
Mr. Don Gardner
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