In a world where the disparity between different socioeconomic classes is increasing, organizations like United Way of Greater Charlotte play a critical role in forging paths toward greater economic mobility for future generations.
United Way of Greater Charlotte is one of the Charlotte region's largest health and human services nonprofits. The nonprofit stands at a unique confluence of the public sector, private corporations, philanthropy and nonprofit organizations, which allows it to harness resources and expertise from different arenas.
United Way has put nearly $18 million in community investments into 134 nonprofit organizations across a four-county area: Anson, Cabarrus, Union and Mecklenburg.
In this episode of the Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Kathryn Firmin-Sellers, who first joined United Way of Greater Charlotte in 2018 as chief impact officer before becoming president and CEO in April 2025, sits down with Ledger editor Tony Mecia to discuss the organization's mission to lift children and families out of poverty by leveraging community partnerships. They also discuss:
How United Way’s funding model has shifted.
How the United Way decides what it funds.
Trends on needs in Charlotte and how they are being addressed
The evolving funding landscape and the need for continuous adaptation and community engagement to drive sustainable change.
The nonprofit’s initiatives like the United Neighborhoods Program and collaborative efforts to address economic mobility challenges in the Charlotte region.
How Firmin-Sellers started her career in the nonprofit sector.
Her goals for the future of United Way of Greater Charlotte.
The importance to nonprofits of planning for “what-ifs,” given the current funding questions from the federal government
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Kathryn Firmin-Sellers.
This episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast was produced by Lindsey Banks.
Need to sign up for this e-newsletter? We offer a free version, as well as paid memberships for full access to all 7 of our local newsletters:
The Charlotte Ledger is a locally owned media company that delivers smart and essential news. We strive for fairness and accuracy and will correct all known errors. The content reflects the independent editorial judgment of The Charlotte Ledger. Any advertising, paid marketing or sponsored content will be clearly labeled.
◼️ About The Ledger • Our Team • Website
◼️ Newsletters • Podcast • Newcomer Guide • A Better You email series
◼️ Subscribe • Sponsor • Events Board • Merch Store • Manage Your Account
◼️ Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, LinkedIn
Share this post