FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: United Way of Southwest Virginia Awards $405,000 to Local Nonprofits Through Community Investment Portfolio to Strengthen Communities Across 21 Localities
Abingdon, VA (July 1, 2026)– United Way of Southwest Virginia (UWSWVA) is proud to announce the investment of
$405,000 through its Community Investment Portfolio to support nonprofit organizations serving individuals and
families throughout Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley.
These funds will directly support programs and services across all 21 localities within United Way of Southwest
Virginia’s service area, helping address critical community needs and advancing opportunities for residents to thrive.
The need for these investments is significant throughout Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley. According to
the latest ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data, 52% of households within United Way of
Southwest Virginia's service area are unable to afford the basic cost of living, compared to 38% statewide. Through
the Community Investment Portfolio, United Way is investing in local nonprofit partners that are helping address these
challenges and create opportunities for individuals and families to achieve greater stability and success.
“Our nonprofit partners work tirelessly every day to improve the lives of our neighbors,” said Megan Parks, Executive
Director of United Way of Southwest Virginia. “We are honored to invest $405,000 into organizations that are making a
meaningful difference in the areas of health, education, and financial stability. Together, we are creating stronger
communities and ensuring that resources reach those who need them most.”
The Community Investment Portfolio reflects United Way’s commitment to collaborative impact and recognizes the
essential role nonprofit organizations play in supporting children, families, seniors, and vulnerable populations
throughout the region. By investing in trusted local partners, United Way helps ensure that resources remain local and
generate lasting positive outcomes for communities across Southwest Virginia.
United Way of Southwest Virginia is grateful for the dedication, innovation, and service demonstrated by its nonprofit
partners and looks forward to continuing this important work together.
“We are thankful for the opportunity to work alongside our nonprofit community partners and to share the incredible
impact they make every day,” Parks added. “United Way of Southwest Virginia remains committed to fighting for the
health, education, and financial stability of every person in our region.”
For a complete list of funded partner agencies, please visit the Community Investment webpage.
Media Contact
Megan Parks
Executive Director
United Way of Southwest Virginia
Email: mparks@unitedwayswva.org
Phone: (276) 628-2160
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United Way of Southwest Virginia fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Southwest
Virginia because they are the building blocks for a good quality of life. United Way convenes cross-sector partners to
make an impact on the most complex problems in our region. Through collaboration with government, businesses,
nonprofits, and individuals, United Way innovates for positive, lasting social change. With a footprint that covers more
than 20% of the state of Virginia, United Way of Southwest Virginias serve the counties of Bland, Buchanan, Carroll,
Dickenson, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Lee, Montgomery, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and
Wythe, and the cities of Bristol, Galax, Norton, and Radford.