GOLDSBORO, N.C. — United Way of Wayne County (UWWC) has taken a significant step in its organizational evolution, with its Board of Directors approving a new strategic direction aimed at addressing the root causes of poverty across Wayne County.
The new approach shifts the organization toward a more focused, outcomes-driven model designed to create lasting change rather than simply responding to immediate needs. As part of the initiative, UWWC has established an ambitious community goal of helping 12,000 individuals achieve financial stability by the year 2035.
“Poverty is complex and deeply interconnected,” said Executive Director Sherry Archibald. “If we want to create lasting change, we must address the underlying challenges that keep families from moving forward. This new direction allows us to do exactly that—together with our community.”
Through research and engagement with community stakeholders, United Way identified three primary factors contributing to poverty in Wayne County:
- Childcare Access and Affordability – A lack of reliable and affordable childcare often prevents parents from maintaining employment or pursuing educational and career advancement opportunities.
- Income and Career Instability – Limited access to job training, career pathways, and wages that support a family can hinder long-term financial security.
- Essential Needs Instability – Challenges related to housing, food, transportation, and utilities can keep families trapped in cycles of crisis.
To tackle these issues, UWWC will focus its efforts through four strategic pillars.
The first pillar, Community Resiliency, will strengthen the county’s ability to respond to emergencies and disasters through volunteer mobilization, emergency assistance, and coordinated support systems.
The second pillar, Childcare, will seek to increase access to affordable, high-quality childcare, helping parents remain in the workforce while supporting positive outcomes for children.
The third pillar, Economic Mobility, will focus on helping families move beyond crisis by connecting them with essential resources and support services.
Finally, the Career Pathways and Financial Growth pillar will emphasize workforce development through job training, certifications, career advancement opportunities, and financial education programs focused on budgeting, credit, and savings.
According to UWWC leaders, the strategy represents a commitment to investing in long-term solutions that strengthen families, support working parents, and contribute to a stronger local economy.
The organization is currently in a transition period. The 2026 fundraising campaign will continue under the traditional funding model, supporting programs focused on health, education, basic needs, and financial stability. However, UWWC plans to move to a fully issue-focused funding model the following year.
During the transition, United Way will continue working closely with community partners, donors, and stakeholders to develop initiatives and establish measurable outcomes aligned with the new strategy.
“This is about building a stronger, more resilient Wayne County,” said Board Chair Selena Worrell. “We are aligning our efforts so that every investment moves individuals and families closer to lasting financial stability.”
UWWC leaders say the transformation reflects a long-term commitment to addressing the challenges facing local families while creating opportunities for future generations to thrive.
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