Serving on United Way of Central Alabama’s Visiting Allocation Team (VAT) goes beyond reviewing applications and evaluating performance. It’s about hearing the stories behind the numbers — stories that change how volunteers see their place in the community. Each year, volunteers commit 10 to 12 hours during several weeks visiting local nonprofits, meeting with staff and clients and learning how programs operate. The experience offers a clearer view of the critical work happening across our region and a meaningful reminder of what it means to give back.
Here’s a look at some of our VAT chairs who make the process impactful and fulfilling.
Virginia Staton Finds Purpose in Community Service
For Virginia Staton, Managing Director at Deloitte, serving as a VAT chair offers the opportunity to witness community transformation up close.
“I come back every year because I see community needs being met,” she said. “Our partner agencies step in to help us and our neighbors directly, and being part of the VAT process lets me see the impact up close.”
Virginia’s experience reflects a common takeaway for VAT members: It’s one thing to donate, but it’s another to witness the impact in person. By visiting nonprofit organizations and hearing firsthand how they help people, volunteers can gain a deeper understanding of how United Way drives change across Central Alabama.
Ivan Holloway Explores the Heart of Birmingham Through Volunteering
“I get excited every year about volunteering on the Visiting Allocation Team because it gives me an opportunity to learn more about Birmingham — its history and all the wonderful things that make the region and the city what it is,” said Ivan Holloway, Executive Director of Urban Impact, Inc.
For Ivan, each site visit offers a new perspective on what makes the community thrive — from the people who love it to the nonprofits that serve it with excellence. “These organizations are truly the cream of the crop in delivering services and support for our area and our residents,” he said.
Volunteering not only supports others — it deepens your own connection to the place you call home.
Jasmine Wright Shares How VAT Helps Grow Leadership Skills
Jasmine Wright, Senior Director of New Business Operations at Protective Life, said that serving as a VAT chair has been both personally and professionally rewarding.
“It’s a win-win situation,” she said. “You get to serve your community, offering your time and talent, while partner agencies benefit from the knowledge and support you bring.” And as a volunteer, you learn about essential services that could benefit you, a family member or someone you know.
She also saw it as an opportunity to grow. “During my first year as a VAT chair, I was in an individual contributor role and knew I wanted to step back into leadership,” she said. “The experience helped me sharpen those skills in a meaningful way — and shortly after, I moved into the leadership position I’d been working toward.”
Become a VAT Volunteer and See the Change You Can Make
These experiences are just a glimpse into what makes VAT such a meaningful volunteer experience. Whether you’re looking to give back, grow your leadership skills or better understand the needs in your community, the Visiting Allocation Team offers a unique way to make an impact and see the results up close.