photos by: JODIE BRIM CREATIVE
As the United Way of Forsyth County celebrates 103 years of service this February, Winston-Salem is feeling a new movement take shape. You’ll be hearing more of their updated theme — “United is the Way” — which reflects the heartfelt hope of bringing the United Way beyond its traditional role.
Dispelling the myth that the United Way is simply a pass-through for funds, their commitment is stronger than ever to build a thriving community by investing in over 55 programs and initiatives, with more than 32 local partner nonprofit organizations.
A Woman Leading with Purpose
Under the leadership of President and CEO Dr. Antonia Monk Richburg, the United Way has become a modern powerhouse for action and change.
“We are striving to bring together the community and its collective resources to solve problems no single organization can tackle alone,” Dr. Richburg explains.
This “new” United Way is dedicated to convening, collaborating, and catalyzing change.
“As a convener, we are creating space where nonprofits, businesses, government, and residents can all unite with a shared purpose,” she emphasizes. “By collaborating, we are building strong, intentional partnerships that align people, data, and resources for greater impact. As a hopeful catalyst for change, we are driving innovative approaches to equity, education, and economic mobility — sparking progress that lasts. We listen, we learn, we lead — together.”
A native of North Carolina, Dr. Richburg grew up in poverty, so she knows the ways new opportunities can completely rewrite the future for children. Leading with faith, heart, and a true vision, when she assumed the role of President and CEO she brought more than professional expertise — she injected life experience, conviction, and a fierce commitment to limitless possibility. She’s inspired on a daily basis when she sees children discover their own brilliance, and when women step up to lead with courage and compassion.
The Leadership Team Shaping the Future of Forsyth County.
Powered by exceptional leaders, the United Way of Forsyth County is committed to building an equitable, flourishing community. Among those leaders are three dynamic women whose passion, innovation, and strategic clarity drive the organization forward. Working side-by-side with Dr. Richburg to realize the vision are Dr. Shinika McKiever, Chief Development Officer, who focuses on building philanthropic partnerships and securing resources that sustain impact, and Tammy Caudill, Chief Marketing Officer, who elevates United Way of Forsyth County’s story, strengthening brand trust and amplifying community voice.
Together, these women personify collaborative, courageous leadership — anchored in equity, belonging, and results. Along with the full United Way executive team — a group of diverse leaders that includes a Chief Financial Officer ensuring sound stewardship and financial strategy, and a Chief Impact Officer who leads data-driven solutions to strengthen outcomes across community initiatives — working in unity is at the forefront of everything they do!
Unity is vital within the community as well, as the new theme — United is the Way —suggests, and private support is more important than ever, now that there is less government support.
Creating Pathways for Children & Families
“Breaking the cycle” is also one of the United Way’s most urgent priorities, as generational poverty remains one of Forsyth County’s greatest challenges.
When children thrive — thanks to new pathways to learning — we know for sure that entire communities rise! Dr. Richburg is passionate about ensuring children start school ready to learn, and are reading on grade level by third grade — a critical predictor of their lifelong success.
“Success shouldn’t depend on a child’s ZIP code,” she affirms. “Our work is about leveling the playing field.”
That’s why the United Way invests in early childhood learning, literacy programs, wraparound support services, and family stability efforts — all grounded in equity and measurable outcomes. These initiatives support parents who work tirelessly yet struggle to make ends meet, while equipping children with the tools, confidence, and support they need to flourish.
Stay tuned for more information in the next few months about “United for Alice” — a promising national initiative that addresses the hardships experienced by community neighbors who are Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed.
Join the movement — and you’ll discover when strong leaders and enlightened communities come together, anything is possible!
United Way of Forsyth County is located at 301 North Main Street, Suite 1700, in Winston-Salem, NC, 336-723-3601. Visit uwforsyth.org for more information or contact [email protected].
Volunteer. Advocate. Give.
Get Involved with United Way of Forsyth County
Volunteer Opportunities! Make a hands-on difference in our community. Contact Tash Lane at [email protected] or explore current opportunities through the United Way of Forsyth County volunteer website portal, uwfcvolunteer.org to find the right fit for you.
21-Day Resilience Challenge (2026)
Build strength — for yourself and your community. United Way of Forsyth County’s 21-Day Resilience Challenge is a guided, three-week experience focused on daily learning, reflection, and action to help individuals and neighborhoods adapt, recover, and thrive together. Learn more and sign up: uwforsyth.org/challenge
Donate
Your gift fuels real change across Forsyth County. Give today: uwforsyth.org
Join Women United
Become part of a powerful network of women committed to lasting impact. Membership starts at $500 annually through the Step-Up option. Join and learn about Step-Up: uwforsyth.org/women-united
Attend the Sneaker Ball, May 16, 2026
Purpose meets style at one of United Way’s most anticipated events. Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 16, 2026, when the annual United Way of Forsyth County Sneaker Ball is rolling back the clock to the 1920s. This year’s event will be held at the Historic Union Station, built in 1926. Enjoy food, fun, and vital fundraising to help Forsyth County’s most vulnerable neighbors. Event details: uwforsyth.org/events
Save the Date: Moonlight Madness 5K Race, September 12, 2026
Lace up for this signature community event supporting health, hope, and impact. Details coming soon!
