United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) was honored to be recognized as a grant partner at the 27th Annual Blount County Education Foundation (BCEF) Radiothon. The event was held Thursday, September 25th at the Blount County Board of Education in Oneonta and raised critical funds to support local students and teachers while highlighting the strength of community partnerships.
Through a Blount County Community Project Grant, UWCA helped provide backpacks, school supplies, clothing and shoes for campers and families served by BCEF. These one-time grants are designed to meet immediate needs while creating lasting impact. To ensure resources directly benefit residents of the county, the UWCA Board of Directors recently approved the establishment of a Blount County Advisory Board composed of individuals who live and work in the community.
At the Radiothon, Shakeitha Tatum and Candace O’Neil represented UWCA and addressed the impact of the grant in Blount County.
Also spotlighted during the broadcast was the upcoming Centennial Park in Susan Moore, part of United Way’s Centennial Parks initiative, which was launched in 2023 to celebrate the organization’s 100th anniversary. In partnership with the Blount County Board of Education, the park will feature two pickleball courts, a pavilion and new picnic areas around the ballpark. Site work is expected to begin in October with a ribbon cutting tentatively scheduled for mid-November.
Beyond the initial build, which typically involves local community volunteers, the Centennial Parks concept fosters long-term community engagement through annual cleanups, beautification efforts and future expansions. These projects depend on the dedication of volunteers and supporters. Those interested in volunteering or becoming a park donor/sponsor can connect with United Way Hands On.
From equipping students for success to creating vibrant recreational spaces, UWCA is committed to its mission of increasing the organized capacity of people to care for one another and improve their communities. The organization’s work in Blount County is one more example.
UWCA is deeply grateful to BCEF, the Blount County Board of Education and the many community partners who make this work possible. Together, we are building brighter futures for students, families and neighborhoods across Blount County and beyond.
Learn more about UWCA’s impact Impact – United Way of Central Alabama