VW25: Partner Spotlights Week 2

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Mar 28, 2025
by United Way of the Midlands

At United Way of the Midlands, we believe that strong communities are built on education, affordable housing, and healthcare. These are the foundation of opportunity, stability, and well-being. When we invest in these critical areas, we create a Midlands where every person-no matter their background or circumstances-has a chance to thrive.

But change doesn't happen alone. It happens when you step forward to be part of the solution.

From April 21-26, Volunteer Week 2025 is your opportunity to make a meaningful impact by giving your time and resources to organizations that are transforming lives. United Is The Way to a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.

Why Your Involvement Matters

Volunteering and giving don't just change the lives of those you help-they change yours, too. When you invest in your community, you:

  • Gain a sense of purpose by contributing to causes that matter.
  • Develop connections with people who share your passion for change.
  • See firsthand the impact of your efforts, strengthening your commitment to service.
  • Learn and grow as you gain new skills and perspectives.

This Volunteer Week, join us in making a difference through these incredible partner organizations:


Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center (BLEC)

For over 15 years, BLEC has been a cornerstone of community support, offering education, workforce development, and health programs for youth, adults, and seniors. Their commitment to improving quality of life is evident in the numbers:

  • 301,040 healthy meals served to children and seniors annually.
  • 23,500+ farmers' market vouchers distributed to eligible seniors each year.
  • 2,000+ youth and teens engaged in community activities.
  • 135+ senior citizens completing AARP Technology classes annually.

Sign up to volunteer with BLEC


Habitat for Humanity Central South Carolina

Everyone deserves a safe, stable, and affordable home. Since 1985, Habitat for Humanity Central SC has helped over 250 families in Richland and Lexington counties achieve homeownership. Through financial education and hands-on building opportunities, Habitat empowers homeowners to build strength, stability, and independence.

  • Homeowners gain financial literacy skills and help build their own homes.
  • They pay affordable mortgages, ensuring long-term stability.
  • Volunteers work alongside future homeowners to make their dream a reality.

Sign up to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity


Sistercare

Domestic violence survivors deserve safety, support, and empowerment. Sistercare provides trauma-informed services to survivors and their children, helping them rebuild their lives free from violence. The need is great:

  • 197 adults and 165 children were served in shelters and motels in 2023.
  • Over 4,000 survivors and children received support through all programs.
  • 2,343 volunteer hours contributed to helping survivors heal.

Your time can make a difference in the lives of women and children seeking safety and self-sufficiency.

Sign up to volunteer with Sistercare


Indian Waters Council, Scouting America

Scouting shapes future leaders by providing life skills, outdoor experiences, and leadership training. Through hiking, camping, community service, and merit badge programs, Scouts develop values that last a lifetime.

  • Scouts learn first aid, citizenship, physical fitness, and career skills.
  • The program fosters peer leadership and democracy in action.
  • Volunteers help mentor and support the next generation of Midlands leaders.

Sign up to volunteer with Indian Waters Council


How You Can Get Involved

From mentoring a child to building a home, from serving meals to empowering survivors, every act of service strengthens our Midlands community.

  1. Share:  Gather a team of friends, neighbors, or family and sign up for an opportunity.
  2. Give:  Collect at least $100 from sharing the story of why you give to your networks.
  3. Serve:  Show up during the week of April 21-26 to make a tangible difference in your community.  Share your thoughts on social media! 

Ready to make an impact? Sign up now: www.uway.org/volunteerweek.

Together, we can build a Midlands where every person has the opportunity to thrive.

Because United Is The Way forward.