Under this partnership, Griffin-Spalding United Way will remain a separate legal entity, with its own Board of Directors providing oversight for fundraising efforts and local allocation decisions. Day-to-day operations will be managed by the experienced team at United Way of Central Georgia, bringing additional resources and capacity to better serve the community.

One of the first enhancements is the implementation of 211, a vital service that connects individuals to essential health and human services, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For many families, 211 can be a lifeline during times of crisis, helping them find resources for housing, food, medical care, and more—all with one simple call.

“Griffin-Spalding United Way has a long legacy of serving this community, and we are honored to be part of this next chapter,” said George McCanless, President and CEO of United Way of Central Georgia. “We look forward to partnering with the dedicated leaders in Griffin and Spalding County to better understand the community’s unique needs and to bring impactful programs like 211, Read United, First Steps, Parents as Teachers, and VITA to the area. Together, we’ll craft a strategic focus to help more families achieve financial stability and strengthen the fabric of this community.”

GSUW Past Board Chair Jackie Wilson echoed this sentiment. “The challenges of operating as a small, one-person organization have grown exponentially over the years, and we knew it was time to seek a partner with the resources and expertise to take our work to the next level. We are thrilled to partner with United Way of Central Georgia, whose proven track record and commitment to community impact will ensure that the people of Spalding County receive the support they need.”

UWCG leverages the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) framework to focus its community investments, with a goal of helping 10,000 families become financially stable in the next decade. ALICE families are those who earn above the poverty line but struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, childcare, and transportation. As part of this partnership, UWCG will work with Griffin-Spalding leaders to develop a similar strategic plan for Spalding County, tailored to the needs of local families.

“This partnership is a win for Griffin and Spalding County,” said UWCG Board Chair Ron Weigle. “It brings resources and programs to the community while maintaining the local leadership and decision-making that has always been at the heart of GSUW’s mission.”

With the implementation of 211 and other signature UWCG programs, this collaboration promises to enhance services, strengthen community impact, and create pathways for greater financial stability and opportunity for Spalding County families.

For more information about this partnership or how to get involved, visit https://www.gscunitedway.org/ or contact Jackie Wilson at (770) 567-2526 [email protected], or George McCanless at (478) 621-7794 [email protected].