United Way of Central Virginia Programs
Community Connector program
United Way of Central Virginia’s Community Connector program serves as a vital access point to critical services for individuals and families across Lynchburg, and the counties of Appomattox, Amherst, Bedford, and Campbell.
Each year, our Community Connector supports approximately 2,000 community members through personalized, in-person and phone-based assistance—helping individuals navigate challenges such as utility shutoffs, food insecurity, housing instability, medical and mental health issues, senior and veteran support, and access to quality childcare. Walk-in appointments are especially critical, offering a welcoming space for those who find online forms or government systems intimidating or inaccessible. Our team goes beyond temporary relief, working to uncover the root causes of a client’s situation and connect them to long-term, sustainable solutions—such as financial coaching, weatherization services, or job training. By focusing on empowerment and lasting impact, the Community Connector helps residents move from crisis to stability—improving their quality of life and fostering a stronger, more self-sufficient community.
Regional Childcare & Workforce Initiative
UWCV is adopting a successful blueprint established by United Way of Southwest Virginia in Abingdon, endorsed by Governor Glenn Youngkin. This initiative involves partnerships with schools, colleges, governments, and corporate partners to expand childcare options, focusing on workforce retention and attraction.
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
The Imagination Library through Bright Beginnings CV at the United Way of Central Virginia, is offered to children from birth through age five who reside in the counties of Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford or Campbell.
Registrations are temporarily suspended in the counties of Amherst, Appomattox and Bedford due to limited funding. We hope to resume registrations in these counties as soon as possible.
Warming Hearts
The City of Lynchburg has a poverty rate of 20% and most of these individuals qualify for assistance. However according to the ALICE report (Assest Limited Income Constrained Employed) - www.unitedwayalice.org - 34% of families in Central Virginia and 38% in Lynchburg City, cannot make ends meet. Warming Hearts and Homes addresses this need by providing a hand up to the community to assist in maintaining and sustaining their basic needs. This program is provided in addition to the Energy Share program and the Neighbor to Neighbor Programs provided by our energy/utility companies.
Warming Hearts was originally started by local philanthropist Rosel Schewel, who heard of the need of families but who could not qualify for immediate assistance. Warming Hearts has limited funds to assist families. Clients seeking assistance should call for eligibility screening and required documents.
Nonprofit Incubator Program
UWCV Supports small nonprofits and startups addressing community needs by providing the necessary resources and expertise to succeed.
The UWCV Nonprofit Incubator Program offers qualifying nonprofits comprehensive support, including stewardship, best practices training, mentoring, a turnkey office with Wi-Fi, and utilities within our facility. This program fosters an active collective, encouraging collaboration among participants.
For more information, contact Kim Soerensen at kim.soerensen@unitedwaycv.org.
