United Way Engagement Groups Lead Community Conversations

A-LIST and Young Leaders help navigate members through professional development discussions at two engagement events this month.
 
Even as snow still lingered across Charlotte, A-LIST hosted their member’s only Boardroom Business series Thursday, January 18, to discuss the unique experience of navigating the workplace as an African-American. A-LIST is a United Way engagement group focused on uniting African-American trailblazers to lead, influence, support, and teach our community in order to foster social equality.
 
Over dinner, provided by UPS African American Business Resource Group, attendees heard from a panel of African-American philanthropic leaders, which included Derick Craft, Monifa D. Drayton, Rodney Gaddy, J.D, Wilfred Neal, Eric Watson and was moderated by Anthony Fox.

 
“The panel shared the kind of career development wisdom that can only be obtained through personal interaction,” said Kellie Cartwright, director of community impact at United Way and A-LIST co-leader. “And most of the attendees were young professionals that wouldn’t ordinarily have access to this caliber of panelist.  This is the kind of experience that elevates a person from average employee to polished professional.”
 
Only seven days later, Young Leaders gathered at the Darla Moore School of Business to explore the opportunities of nonprofit board leadership through Coffee and Conversation. Attendees gained personal insight from Trey Ackerman, a United Way board member, on how to navigate Charlotte’s nonprofit community.

Young Leaders, a United Way engagement group for ages 40 and under, helps connect professionals with philanthropy, volunteer and leadership activities throughout the community. The group will continue to guide members through community leadership with their annual two part Board Training beginning in May.

“I think it is easy to look for a resume filler when you start researching nonprofit boards,” shared Moe Brown, manager at Dixon Hughes Goodman, LLP. “Trey stressed the importance of being intentional. First, focus on your passions and then find an organization that aligns with that.”
 
We all come from different backgrounds and do different things, but we come together as one for the community. United Way’s engagement groups are a great way to plug into and get involved throughout our community.
 
Find an engagement group that’s right for you and join the conversation.