Albemarle United Way kicked off its virtual Spirit Week by honoring Albemarle Hopeline with the Spirit of Community Award. Recognized for nearly four decades of service to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, Hopeline continues to provide critical support during challenging times. The event also highlighted the impact of the Community Care Collaborative, which helps local families overcome temporary crises and achieve long-term stability.

Albemarle Area United Way hosted its inaugural Keel Club Philanthropy Awards Dinner on November 7, honoring Bruce and Anna Biggs for their exceptional generosity and commitment to the community. Held at the Carolina Center, the evening also featured the presentation of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine—the highest civilian honor in North Carolina—to Bruce Biggs in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership.

Albemarle Area United Way exceeded its 2019 fundraising goal, raising more than $450,000 and marking its strongest campaign in years. Announced during the annual Campaign Kickoff and Awards Luncheon, the record-breaking effort will provide approximately $236,000 in support to partner agencies across the region. The milestone reflects the generosity of donors, workplace campaigns, and a growing number of Keel Club members committed to strengthening local communities.

Girl Scout Senior Madison Pugh earned her Silver Award through her “Chemo-Care Kits” project, providing comfort bags to cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Inspired by the impact cancer has had on friends and family, Madison assembled 50 care kits filled with thoughtful items and encouraging messages. Her project brought comfort to patients, addressed a community need, and inspired others to continue supporting those facing cancer.

Albemarle Area United Way celebrated its strongest fundraising campaign in five years, raising $305,321 and investing $187,078 back into local nonprofit partners. Growth in donor participation, Keel Club membership, and new initiatives such as Bocce, Beer & Bites and Small Biz United helped drive the record-setting year. The organization also outlined ambitious plans to expand community impact through education, 2-1-1 awareness, and the Community Care Collaborative.

Albemarle Area United Way’s inaugural Bocce, Beer & Bites brought hundreds of community members to Waterfront Park for a day of friendly competition, local food, craft beer, and philanthropy. The event exceeded expectations, expanding from 32 to 46 teams and raising more than $17,000 to support United Way partner agencies and programs serving communities across the region.

Albemarle Area United Way is on track for a strong 2017–18 campaign, having raised more than $221,000—81% of its fundraising goal—with months still remaining. During a Keel Club celebration, Executive Director Bill Blake highlighted the growing impact of donor support, the expansion of the Keel Club, and the vital role United Way plays in helping local families through partner agencies and community programs.

Albemarle Area United Way celebrated the growth of its Keel Club leadership donors while announcing Bill Blake as its permanent Executive Director. Since joining the organization, Blake has helped expand donor engagement, launch new initiatives such as Small Business United, and introduce the Bocce, Beer & Bites fundraising event. The celebration recognized the power of community leadership and the positive momentum driving United Way’s mission across northeastern North Carol