We love sharing all the things that make our city so special. But sadly, studies also show that almost 60,000 men, women + children in GVL still live below the poverty line. That’s 1 out of 10 Greenville County residents. Greenville has also been ranked one of the 10 most difficult counties to rise out of poverty.

There are no easy solutions, but United Way of Greenville County is working hard to build a brighter future. They use a research-backed economic mobility model to create measurable impact. And they would love your support.

Here are 3 ways to get involved:

Donate your time or money. No amount is too small.
Help advocate for better public policy.
Keep learning. A new conversation series with local leaders is ongoing from now through the end of November — follow along online.

More on economic mobility:

To work toward their mission of lifting people out of poverty, United Way has developed a 3 prong economic mobility model to direct and measure their efforts.

1️⃣ Deliver opportunities through education

Did you know that education is the best predictor of future financial stability? United Way has 30+ strategic partnerships to provide tutoring, mentoring, after school programs and more.

United Way works to empower Greenvillians by providing job training, financial services, and more | Photo by United Way of Greenville County

2️⃣ Lay the foundation for financial stability

Achieving financial stability is a process, and United Way works to empower people along the way by providing job training, financial services, and more. The goal is that eventually, this paves the way for individuals to gain long term assets… like buying a home or starting a business. 🏠

3️⃣ Build vibrant + equitable communities

A vibrant and equitable community is one where all neighborhoods are safe and well-connected, and the nonprofit network is strong enough to meet community needs. United Way partners with a number of organizations that address food insecurity, equities + more.

Everyone in our community deserves to feel safe, healthy and supported. If this mission calls to you, get involved with United Way and help them as they make a difference… one step at a time. 💚 Ⓟ