GREENVILLE, Miss. — August 5, 2026 — United Way Washington County (UWWC) today released its 2025–2026 Impact Report, detailing how the organization and its partner agencies delivered essential services to more than 8,700 people across Washington County in 2025. The report shows that 72% of those served live at or below the poverty level and 76% are minorities, underscoring UWWC's role as a safety net for the Mississippi Delta's most vulnerable residents.
UWWC's partner agencies generated nearly $1.5 million in combined community resources — meaning every dollar donated to United Way of Washington County leveraged more than $8 in total impact. Partner agencies served families in Greenville, Leland, Hollandale, Glen Allan, Arcola, Metcalfe, and throughout unincorporated Washington County.
Report Highlights

• The Sacred Space served an estimated 22,400 community meals and provided transitional housing for individuals completing substance abuse treatment.
• The United Way Housing Initiative completed exterior rehabilitation and two full roof replacements for nine senior homeowners, all living below 80% of Area Median Income.
• Community Counseling Center marked 41 consecutive years as a leading nonprofit mental health provider offering care regardless of a client's ability to pay, serving 668 individuals in 2025.
• Hodding Carter Memorial YMCA welcomed 4,274 members and participants through swim lessons, summer camps, adaptive sports, and wellness programs.
• Mississippi Delta Nature & Learning Center connected 3,030 children and families to hands-on environmental education, job training, and fresh food grown in the Delta.
• American Red Cross – North MS Chapter provided 24/7/365 emergency disaster response to more than 134 Washington County families.
• Boys & Girls Club of Washington County reached 154 young people with after-school enrichment, STEM, and leadership programs.
• Greenville Renaissance Scholars helped 70 students achieve honor roll status, with college-prep workshops reaching 89% of eligible seniors.
• Girl Scouts – Heart of the South engaged 69 girls in STEM and leadership programs, expanding outdoor education by 40% over the previous year.
• DRMC's Prescription Assistance Program helped 58 uninsured residents access essential medications, improving program efficiency by 25%.

 
“This past year, our partner agencies collectively served more than 8,700 people across Washington County,” said Katherine Shamoon, Board President of United Way of Washington County. “Every single dollar donated to United Way of Washington County leverages $8 or more in total community impact. That is proof of what a united community can achieve.”
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“The data in this report tells a story of a community that shows up for itself,” said Nathan Benzing, Executive Director of United Way of Washington County. “Our partner agencies are meeting people where they are — in crisis, in recovery, in school, in aging homes, and in need of a meal. We remain committed to advancing the common good and building a Washington County where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.”
The full 2025–2026 Impact Report, including agency-by-agency data and community impact metrics, is available here.
 

About United Way of Washington County
United Way of Washington County partners with local agencies to advance the common good across Washington County, Mississippi, investing in education, health, income stability, and basic needs. In 2025, UWWC and its 11 partner agencies served more than 8,700 residents throughout Greenville, Leland, Hollandale, Glen Allan, Arcola, Metcalfe, and unincorporated Washington County. Learn more at www.unitedwaywc.com.

Media Contact
Nathan Benzing, Executive Director
United Way of Washington County
(662) 332-5371
info@unitedwaywc.com
 
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A Community Transformed: 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta and O'Bannon High School Student-Athletes Complete First UWHI Home Rehabilitation of 2026.
In a powerful display of teamwork and community spirit, the 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta, assisted by the young men of the O'Bannon High School Boys' Athletics teams, kicked off the new year by completing the first home rehabilitation project of 2026 for the United Way of Washington County Housing Initiative.
The project involved a new paint and replacing some rotten boards to restore the property's exterior and landscaping to follow. Armed with paint rollers, brushes, and tools, the volunteers worked together under the Mississippi sun to give the residence a fresh, vibrant new look, making a meaningful difference for a local family and the surrounding neighborhood.
The United Way of Washington County Housing Initiative continues to be a driving force in revitalizing homes and strengthening the fabric of the Washington County community. Projects like this one are a testament to what can be accomplished when dedicated community leaders and motivated young people come together with a shared purpose.
United Way of Washington County extends its deepest gratitude to the 100 Black Men of the Mississippi Delta for their continued leadership and hands-on commitment to this initiative, and to the O'Bannon High School Boys' Athletics teams for once again showing that true champions serve both on and off the field.

​Report Shows Over 5,600 Lives Touched Despite Economic Challenges; Organization Seeks Community Support for 2025-2026 Campaign


GREENVILLE, MS – September 10, 2025 – The United Way of Washington County (UWWC) today released its 2025 Impact Report, highlighting remarkable community impact despite ongoing economic challenges, while simultaneously launching its annual fundraising campaign for the 2025-2026 period.

The comprehensive report reveals that UWWC reached 5,698 individuals across Washington County through strategic partnerships with local non-profit organizations, achieving 95.3% of its ambitious fundraising goal through the support of 826 donors who contributed over $205,000.

"This achievement represents more than the dollars raised; it represents hope delivered to over 5,600 individuals across our county," said Kim Dowdy, Board President. "From infants receiving critical early support to seniors accessing essential services, your United Way investment touched lives in every corner of Washington County."

Significant Community Impact Across Multiple SectorsThe report demonstrates UWWC's comprehensive approach to addressing community needs:

• 939 young people engaged in youth development programs
• 3,539 community members participated in recreation and wellness initiatives
• 986 individuals accessed health and human services

Notably, over 95% of program participants came from low-to-moderate income households, with more than 42% living in poverty, highlighting UWWC's role as a crucial safety net for working families who earn too much for government assistance but still struggle financially.

Strategic Allocation Addresses Critical NeedsFor the 2024-2025 period, UWWC allocated resources strategically: 37% for youth development, disaster prevention and senior services; 31% for education support programs including after-school tutoring and STEM education; and 32% for health and wellness initiatives covering mental health care and prescription assistance.

"What makes this impact even more meaningful is that we focused our efforts where they were needed most," said Nathan Benzing, Executive Director. "Over 95% of those we served came from low-to-moderate income households, creating a vital safety net for our community." Click here to read the entire report. 

Launching the 2025-2026 Annual CampaignBuilding on this foundation of success, UWWC today officially launches its 2025-2026 annual fundraising campaign, seeking continued community support to expand programs addressing health, education, and financial stability throughout Washington County.

The previous campaign's success was driven by strong corporate partnerships, including Harlow's Casino Resort & Spa, Delta Health Alliance, and Planters Bank & Trust Co., alongside broad community participation that created a 7:1 community multiplier effect—meaning each donor's contribution helped serve approximately seven community members.

Multiple Ways to SupportCommunity members can support UWWC's mission through:

• Give: Make a 2026 contribution 
• Advocate: Share impact stories with friends and colleagues
• Volunteer: Join committees or help with events
• Connect: Follow on social media and spread awareness

"Supporting the United Way is an investment in our community's future, with every contribution, large or small, making a difference," Benzing added. "For those who don't currently support UWWC, I invite you to consider becoming a partner and help us create more opportunities for our friends and neighbors."

About United Way of Washington CountyUnited Way of Washington County identifies community needs and brings together resources necessary to enhance people's lives in Washington County, Mississippi. Through partnerships with local non-profit organizations, UWWC creates comprehensive support systems addressing critical needs across all age groups and economic levels.
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For more information about United Way of Washington County or to contribute to the 2025-2026 campaign, visit www.unitedwaywc.com, call 662-332-5371, or email execdirector@unitedwaywc.com.

Washington County, MS – July 16, 2024 – United Way of Washington County is proud to announce and recognize the top five businesses that have made significant contributions to our annual campaign. Their generosity and commitment have been instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of improving lives and strengthening our community.
The top contributors for this year’s campaign are:

1. Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa
2. Dollar General Distribution Warehouse
3. Delta Health Alliance
4. Planter’s Bank & Trust Co.
5. Delta Health System – The Medical Center

These businesses have demonstrated exceptional community leadership through their financial contributions, volunteer efforts, and advocacy for our cause. Their support has enabled us to fund vital programs and services that address critical needs in our community, including education, health, and financial stability.
Nathan Benzing, Executive Director of United Way of Washington County, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from these businesses: “We are incredibly grateful to our top contributors for their dedication and generosity. Their commitment to our community is inspiring and makes a tangible difference in the lives of so many individuals and families in Washington County.”
United Way of Washington County’s annual campaign raises funds to support local non-profit organizations and initiatives that provide essential services to those in need. “The contributions from our top businesses, along with those from countless individuals and other organizations, enable us to create lasting change and build a stronger, more resilient community. Thank you to the Washington County community for their continued support of the 13 United Way of Washington County agencies.  We could not offer the vital services without your generous commitment to the UWWC, said Parker England, UWWC President.
For more information about United Way of Washington County, our programs, and how you can get involved, please visit www.unitedwaywc.com or contact Nathan Benzing, Executive Director 662-332-5371.
About United Way of Washington County:
United Way of Washington County is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving lives and strengthening our community by mobilizing the caring power of people. Through collaboration, resource development, and advocacy, we work to create lasting change in the areas of education, income, and health.
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For Immediate Release                                                                               May 17, 2024
Contact: Nathan Benzing                                                                            662.332.5371
 
 


​THE UNITED WAY HOUSING INITIATIVE VOLUNTEER MISSION TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF OTHERS
 
Greenville: The United Way Housing Initiative (UWHI), an agency of the United Way of Washington County, is comprised of an all-volunteer workforce joining together to provide a better quality of life for community members. This Spring, the committee has been working on homes throughout Washington County with the mission of making minor improvements and painting to homes owned by low-income and/or disabled senior citizens.

Pictured is a home completed by the 100 Black Men and Metcalfe team in conjunction with Sullivan & Sons Construction who replaced the roof.  The UWHI teams work was provided financially through a grant from The King’s Daughters & Son’s Circle #2 and the roof was able to be completed through the Planter’s Bank & Trust sponsored our application with Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas’ SNAP Program.

“This house is an example of true teamwork and partnerships with the same goal of providing citizens with home repairs that might not have been able to be completed due to financial or home life situations,” said Nathan Benzing, Executive Director, United Way of Washington County. “Our volunteers get more out of the project than the homeowners.  Thank you to everyone who supports UWHI and the United Way of Washington County.  Your donations are being well spent."

The United Way of Washington County volunteers work throughout the year campaigning, communications, agency assistance, and advocating for the agencies. The United Way of Washington County is located at 800 Main Street, Greenville, MS. 

For more information, contact 662.332.5371, visit our website, or check out our Facebook page.
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