Greater Valdosta United Way

Last week, One Valdosta-Lowndes launched its Housing Market Needs Assessment & Neighborhood Redevelopment Study in partnership with the Greater Valdosta United Way (GVUW)! GVUW has generously invested $15,000 in OVL’s housing efforts to address housing affordability and accessibility, a crucial workforce development priority throughout Lowndes County. The esteemed Georgia Tech’s Center for Economic Development Research has been retained to conduct this important housing study. The project will publicly launch in August and will progress through three phases until April 2025. This initiative will involve key stakeholders, residents, and students from target neighborhoods, ensuring comprehensive community engagement. Stay tuned for more updates as we work together to enhance housing opportunities and community development! #OVL #HousingStudyKickOff

American Red Cross of South-Central Georgia was one of the four Impact Partners that were highlighted in our 2023 Annual Report. Whether in small towns or large cities worldwide, during times of crisis, American Red Cross employees and volunteers provide aid and relief to people in need, including shelter and food to people severely impacted by disasters. In 2023, the American Red Cross of South-Central Georgia responded to 246 disasters and assisted 322 families. During Hurricane Idalia's severe impact on South Georgia, the American Red Cross acted quickly to set up shelters and distribute essential supplies. Local Red Cross staff and volunteers were joined by more volunteers from across the country who helped serve meals, provide shelter, and distribute clean-up supplies. Learn more about American Red Cross of South-Central Georgia and how GVUW supports their program at gvuw.org/redcross-2023.

Since the pandemic, families across all income levels have felt the impact of inflation. But for families in poverty and those that are ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), the squeeze has been even tighter. The ALICE Essentials Index tracks the rising cost of only the basics that matter most to struggling families. Our latest data reveals that for more than a decade, this Index has risen at a faster rate than the Consumer Price Index (#CPI) – which covers a much larger basket of items, including luxuries. View the new dashboards for Georgia: https://lnkd.in/eUy5nFBJ #ALICEindex #ALICE2024 #economy #poverty #workingpoor

We are hiring! To see our open positions click the link below. https://lnkd.in/ePiDNQqF

The Valdosta-Lowndes YMCA was one of the four Impact Partners that were highlighted in our 2023 Annual Report. Beyond the treadmills and weights, for nearly 60 years, the Valdosta-Lowndes Family County YMCA has been a cornerstone in fostering healthier lifestyles, nurturing youth, and instilling social responsibility, all to enhance the lives of children, teens, and adults. While the Valdosta-Lowndes Y is known for after-school, gymnastics, and swimming programs, it also offers a range of specialized programs, including the Champions League, Teen Leaders, and Silver Sneakers for senior adults. Read more about The YMCA and how GVUW supports their programs at gvuw.org/ymca-2023.

Board Member Spotlight! Get to know the Greater Valdosta United Way Board of Directors that joined our team this year. Kelly Robbins is a 15-year-veteran-teacher-turned-realtor entering her 6th year in real estate. Real estate has helped her gain a better understanding of the community and its inhabitants, as well as the needs of those who reside here. Kelly has been involved in multiple committees with the Valdosta Board of Realtors, including chairing the Community Service Committee, which has helped her cross paths with many organizations helped by the Greater Valdosta United Way. "I look forward to serving on the board and growing as a leader to better our wonderful community!" Thank you for your dedication to serving South Georgia, Kelly!

Valdosta Young Professionals📣 Sign up for the August Happy Hour on August 13! We are looking forward to this great opportunity to connect with everyone.

Board Member Spotlight! Get to know the Greater Valdosta United Way Board of Directors that joined our team this year. Kevin is a dedicated professional with a robust background in both military and civilian service. He honorably served over 10 years in the U.S. Army before medically retiring. Transitioning to civilian life, Kevin continued his commitment to public service by working for several federal government agencies over the past decade. Most recently, with the Social Security Administration. With extensive knowledge and experience in the Human Resources career field, Kevin has consistently demonstrated his expertise in managing personnel and organizational development. His career is marked by his dedication to serving his country and community, making significant contributions both in the military and in federal service. Kevin’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to public service and community engagement. As a new Board Member of the Greater Valdosta United Way, he brings a wealth of experience, a commitment to excellence, and a profound passion for making a positive impact in the lives of others. "I am truly honored to have been selected to serve on the Board of Directors for the Greater Valdosta United Way. This organization is instrumental in supporting many businesses and local nonprofits throughout the South Georgia region and driving impactful initiatives that benefit our community. I am excited about the opportunity to work with such a dedicated and passionate team. I am eager to bring my skills and experience to the table to help further the mission of the Greater Valdosta United Way. Together, I believe we can make a significant and positive impact on the lives of many. Thank you for entrusting me with this important role." Thank you for your dedication to serving South Georgia, Kevin!

Join us in wishing a very happy birthday to our fearless leader! May your birthday be filled with as much joy and success as you bring to our team every day!

The Salvation Army of Valdosta was one of the four Impact Partners that were highlighted in our 2023 Annual Report. The Salvation Army of Valdosta is preparing to celebrate a century of service. Established on August 31, 1924, Valdosta’s Salvation Army Corp was located at two sites, including Lee Street, before moving to its current facility on Smithland Place in January 1988. For a hundred years, this international faith-based organization has stood as a beacon of hope, a source of aid, and a symbol of compassion for the people of Valdosta and its neighboring communities. As the milestone approaches, Valdosta Corp Captains Hoon and Judy Chung said it’s not merely a time for reflection on the past but an opportunity to involve the community to engage the community in sustaining the Salvation Army’s work for years to come. Read more about The Salvation Army and how GVUW supports their programs at https://lnkd.in/ejPb-CPx.