About
the gaston county united way
Our Legacy, Your Community, One Mission.
We don't just see the challenges facing our neighbors; we unite the resources, people, and passion required to solve them.
Rooted in Gaston County Since 1953
What began in 1953 as the Greater Gastonia United Fund has evolved into a powerhouse for local change. From our first million-dollar campaign in 1979 to our current role as a strategic community convener, our focus has always remained the same: keeping resources right here in Gaston County to help our neighbors thrive.
In 2008, we took a bold step forward by moving from general agency funding to outcome-based program funding. Today, we don't just fund organizations; we invest in specific, measurable results that change lives.
the united fund
The United Fund was formed by Gastonia businessmen who recognized the need to have a central fund-raising and fund distribution system to meet local human care needs.
The first president was E.W. “Woody” Carothers, Sr. Instrumental members included Harold Mercer, Allen Sims, Robert Wren, Sr., R.P. Caldwell, Sr., R.H. Pinnix, Allen Smith, and Knox Winget, Jr. After operating four years with part-time staff support, O.J. “Mike” Stenstrom became the first full time executive director in 1957.
the greater gastonia fund
The Greater Gastonia United Fund was succeeded by United Community Services of Gaston County in 1967 under the leadership of president Harold Sumner, to expand services from Gastonia to other communities in the county.
United Community Services operated with three divisions: Social Planning, Budgeting and United Appeal and included Gastonia, Lowell, Dallas, Mt. Holly, Cramerton, Cherryville and Stanley.
the united way of gaston county
The name United Way of Gaston County was adopted by the Board of Directors on June 21, 1972. The name change reflected the desire to join other similar organizations around the country by having a common name and identification with the new United Way of America movement. Bessemer City later joined the united campaign effort.
In 1993, the Belmont United Fund merged with the United Way of Gaston County. In 1996, United Way joined the McAdenville Community Chest to solicit the employees of Pharr Yarns in the first combined campaign effort.
United Way of Gaston County held its first million-dollar campaign in 1979, its first $2 million campaign in 1986 and its first $3 million campaign in 1993.
In 2008, United Way began an emphasis on building awareness about the product side of its business – the funded programs and services. The ultimate goal is to deliver meaningful programs and services that impact problems identified by the community as being of highest priority. The process began by moving from agency funding to program funding.
Within two years, United Way advanced to incorporating outcome measurement results for all funded programming to help organizations demonstrate how a particular program changes an individual’s life and enhances the organization’s ability to better serve the client and community.
OUR CORE VALUES
The United Way of gaston County diversity statement
We recognize that true equity begins with accessibility—ensuring that every neighbor, regardless of their background or current economic status, has the resources to move from surviving to thriving. By centering our work on the inherent dignity of the individual, we build a ladder of opportunity that strengthens the very fabric of Gaston County.
For more information about the United Way of Gaston County, or to volunteer your time with us, please contact us at 704-864-4554.
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