At United Way, we have identified three keys to economic mobility — education, financial stability, and vibrant and equitable communities. Learn more about how we are working to build a stronger, more equitable Greenville County for all.
We believe everyone deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential. Education is the most robust predictor of financial stability, but 12 percent of adults (25+) in Greenville County do not have a high school diploma, and only 35 percent hold a bachelor’s or graduate degree. With the right support, education can change the direction of a child’s life forever.
From Travelers Rest to Fountain Inn and from Greer to Greenville, we believe all communities should be safe, thriving, and equitable — no matter your zip code. To accomplish that vision, our most vulnerable neighbors must have their basic needs met, community stakeholders must work collaboratively to improve conditions, and policy and advocacy efforts must be centered around systems change that moves individuals and families out of poverty.
By the time students in Greenville County reach eighth grade, more than half are failing to meet the standards for math and English. OnTrack Greenville is a community of support for students, their families and our schools designed to create solutions — keeping students on track to graduate on time.
Our 2-1-1 non-emergency resource line provides 24/7 assistance to connect our most vulnerable neighbors with resources like housing, utility assistance, food, transportation and more. Just dial 2-1-1 or text "HELP" or "AYUDA" to 211-211 to get connected.
The Opportunity Center is a one-stop resource hub to improve financial stability and economic mobility options for families and individuals in Greenville County. This new resource offers connections with premier local partners, providing financial counseling and coaching, access to affordable loans, matched savings programs for asset building, income supports, and free income tax assistance.
For more than a decade, the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, or VITA, has been one of United Way of Greenville County's most successful financial stability initiatives. Sponsored by the IRS, our VITA program provides free income tax preparation assistance to individuals and families with a household income of $60,000 a year or less.
AmeriCorps Upstate helps create access to services for people in need. Our members navigate resources that help community members thrive, such as financial classes and tools, educational programs, food, and social service applications for SNAP benefits and Medicaid. By placing our members at local nonprofits and other services locations, we are able to support opportunities that create vibrant communities for all in Greenville County.
Formed in partnership with the Greenville Chamber and Urban League of the Upstate, the Greenville Racial Equity & Economic Mobility (REEM) Commission convenes around matters of racial inequities, social justice, and disparities in key areas that negatively impact the Black community in Greenville County.
Thank you for joining us to build a stronger, more equitable Greenville County for all. Please complete the form below to stay connected with us.
