UWCA Heroes: Meet the Women Transforming Birmingham Through Volunteerism

At United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA), we are privileged to witness the unwavering commitment of incredible individuals who dedicate their time and energy to making a positive impact in our community. Today, we shine a light on three remarkable women who are making their mark by volunteering in Birmingham.

Krystal Drummond

Krystal Drummond, Vice President of Community and Government Relations at Drummond Company, is a force to be reckoned with. Her journey from practicing law to championing community relations has been fueled by her passion for creating meaningful change. Krystal’s involvement with UWCA has allowed her to bridge the gap between people’s talents and the needs of our community. Her team actively serves through partner agencies such as ARC of Walker County, Better Basics, Glenwood, Habitat for Humanity and Workshops Empowerment Inc. Krystal’s dedication reminds us that volunteering isn’t just about giving back — it’s about transforming lives.

“UWCA paves the way for people who have the desire to make a difference and allows them to get out and do it — whether it’s from reading a book to students or helping build a home for a family. They make it easy to connect your gifts and skills with ways to serve.”

– Krystal Drummond
Krystal Drummond at a Habitat for Humanity Build. Photo by Bham Now.
Krystal Drummond at a Habitat for Humanity Build.

Nancy Collat Goedecke

Nancy Collat Goedecke, former Board Chair and CEO of Mayer Electric Supply, has left an indelible mark on UWCA. In 2015, she became the first woman to single-handedly chair our fundraising campaign, raising an impressive $38.8 million. Nancy’s commitment extends beyond the boardroom; she actively volunteers with partner agencies such as the American Heart Association, Girl Scouts of North Central Alabama, Pathways and YWCA of Central Alabama. Her emphasis on responsible stewardship of funds and the tangible impact of UWCA programs underscores the importance of collective action.

“Knowing that United Way are such good stewards of the money they receive is really important to me, not only from an internal perspective but from an external point of view, too. The money goes back into the community and the leaders are top-notch people, so it’s an incredible place to give back through serving and donating.”

Nancy Collat Goedecke
Nancy Collate Goedecke and Charles Collat.

Kimberly Jackson

Kimberly Jackson, the Community Relations Manager at Alabama Power Company, has been closely connected to United Way for more than 15 years. Through her volunteer work, she has witnessed firsthand how United Way positively impacts lives and makes a difference in Birmingham.

Kimberly’s involvement extends to various UWCA agencies, including those focused on childcare, hunger relief, mentoring and workforce development. Additionally, she serves as the president of the board for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Birmingham, an organization dedicated to providing mentors for local youth. Kimberly appreciates that United Way allows her to contribute to multiple nonprofits while emphasizing the importance of women’s active participation in community service and decision making.

“Women are generally nurturers. We’re very thoughtful about how we do things, we’re great at multitasking and we don’t let much fall through the cracks. I think it’s so important for us to get out and serve and to be at the table where decisions are being made to help shape our communities. United Way allows us to do that.”

Kimberly Jackson
Kimberly Jackson (3rd from right) serves on the Centennial Parks Committee. 

This blog post was inspired by the Bham Now article “Meet 3 Amazing Women Making Their Mark Volunteering in Birmingham.”

Click to read the full article from Bham Now