What is the United Way?

United Way of Greater High Point is a local organization made up of over 500 volunteers and 12 staff members who work to support a broad range of agencies and human services. Our organization allocates the money raised through a citizen's review process, conducted by trained volunteers who serve on Program Review Teams.

Here's a little history: The United Way originated in 1887 in Denver, Colorado, when three ministers a Catholic priest, a Methodist minister and a Jewish rabbi, joined together to help solve the many social problems left in the aftermath of the Gold Rush.

High Point's United Way, established in 1935, was initially known as The Community Chest. Member agencies were the YMCA, YWCA, American Red Cross, Boy Scouts and The Salvation Army. The first goal of $33,677.32 was surpassed when the community raised $35,388.76 under the leadership of W. B. Hall.

The 2006 fund-raising campaign raised $4.2 million dollars to help fund over 70 programs at 29 local partner agencies in High Point, Archdale, Trinity, and Jamestown.

United Way of Greater High Point

serving High Point, Archdale, Trinity and Jamestown

The United Way of Greater High Point is about much more than raising money. We're about being the first place people think of and turn to when they need help. We are a volunteer-driven organization, comprised of folks from all walks of life and every segment of our community, who share one thing in common: a heartfelt desire to reach out to our neighbors in need. We invite you to explore our site and learn ways that you can make a difference in the lives of so many.

Our Mission

We develop resources and partnerships that make a measurable difference in people's lives.

Our Vision

United Way of Greater High Point will be the recognized community catalyst in making all children and youth successful, families stronger, and neighborhoods more vital.

General Information

The United Way of Greater High Point develops community resources and partnerships that support a broad array of critical health and human service needs in our community. Resources are focused on community impact programs that promote thriving children and families, independent and self-sufficient people, healthy people, and safe neighborhoods.

After almost a year spent planning and talking with local leaders, the United Way of High Point, then called the "Community Chest" and led by Mr. H.A. Millis, first held an organizational meeting on September 12, 1935. A headline in that day's High Point Enterprise read, "Community Chest will be organized tonight." The caption stated, "A gathering will be held at 8 o'clock tonight for purpose of electing Board of Trustees and mapping out plans for the season."

Eighty people attended that first meeting of what is today called the United Way of Greater High Point. Mr. R.T. Amos was elected the first President of the Board of Directors, and the five original partner agencies were the American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, the YMCA, the YWCA, and the Boy Scouts. The first fund-raising campaign began on October 14, 1935, with a goal of $33,677.32,"and it lasted four days!