Greenville, S.C. — United Way of Greenville County is honored to announce that it has been officially chosen to carry on the legacy of Gratefull Greenville, the beloved community meal founded in 2019 by Mary Beth Cross and Laura Halter Sardone.
Created as a simple but powerful act of connection — a shared meal, a long table, and a seat for every neighbor — Gratefull Greenville quickly became a signature Greenville tradition. After launching with overwhelming enthusiasm in 2019, the event paused during the pandemic and joyfully returned in 2024. In 2025, its founders approached United Way of Greenville County to explore whether the organization might be the right long-term home for the event.
For Mary Beth and Laura, the decision was clear.
“United Way has the community trust, the deep volunteer base, and the heart to carry Gratefull Greenville forward,” they shared. “It just made sense.”
United Way of Greenville County is honored to accept the invitation and committed to preserving the event’s spirit while expanding its impact.
“This tradition reflects the very best of who we are,” said Meghan Barp, president & CEO of United Way of Greenville County. “Gratefull Greenville is about belonging, connection, generosity, and the belief that everyone deserves a seat at the table. We cannot wait to build an even bigger table next year with our amazing city and neighbors.”
Since its inception, Gratefull Greenville has welcomed thousands of Greenville County residents to a free shared Thanksgiving-week meal on Main Street, featuring food donated and served by local restaurants and supported by hundreds of dedicated volunteers. The event has become a symbol of unity, resilience, and the hospitality that defines Greenville.
United Way invites the Greenville community to save the date for the next Gratefull Greenville:
- Monday, November 23, 2026
- 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
- Main Street, Downtown Greenville
Those wishing to volunteer, sponsor, donate, or participate can join the interest list at gratefullgvl.org and follow updates on Facebook and Instagram.
About United Way of Greenville County
United Way of Greenville County brings people and resources together to build a stronger, more equitable community. Through strategic investments and partnerships, United Way supports programs that help families achieve stability in education, financial well-being, and housing. Learn more at unitedwaygc.org.
Media Contact:
Allyson Johnson
VP of Marketing & Communications, United Way of Greenville County
ajohnson@unitedwaygc.org
(864) 467-3501