Imagine how communities could progress if neighborhood leaders were trusted to define and decide on the best ideas to support their community's opportunities and solutions to its challenges.
United Way of the Greater Triangle's newest funding strategy looks to neighborhood experts in addition to existing nonprofits to define what is right and wrong in their communities and decide on the systemic solutions needed within distinct Triangle neighborhoods and communities.
Neighborhood Impact is kicking off with an investment of more than $100,000 in 9 community organizers whose work impacts the Triangle. United Way worked in partnership with Dr. Terrance Ruth — Professor for NC State University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences — to identify the leaders.
Neighborhood Impact has developed People, Place, and Proximity models to guide funding decisions and innovate existing systems of investment, community engagement, and storytelling. The following outcomes will be measured across each model:
• Shifting power in definition and decision-making
• Amplifying lived experience as expertise
• Restoring community autonomy through reimagined systems
Meet The Leaders
Voting Rights Advocate
Byron Laws
Criminal Justice Reform Advocate
Felicia Arriaga, PhD
Food Justice Advocate
Kamal Bell
Criminal Justice Reform Advocate
Kerwin Pittman
Immigrant Rights Advocate
Maria Mayorga
Pastor and Author
Melissa Florer-Bixler
Mental Health Advocate
Sonia Padial
Youth and Education Justice Advocate
Troy Johnson
Youth and Environmental Justice Advocate