United Way of Central Alabama’s (UWCA) Young Philanthropists Society (YPS) kicked off its 2025 Campaign season at Red or White in Forest Park with a guest speaker who knows firsthand the power of community support. Nicole Kimbrough, Resource Development Coordinator at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Alabama, shared her journey of growing up in the program and how it shaped the course of her life.
A Lifelong Journey with Boys & Girls Clubs
Nicole calls herself a “Club Kid.” At just 8 years old, she joined the Boys & Girls Club, a United Way partner agency, where she found caring mentors, opportunities to learn and experiences that gave her a strong foundation for the future. By age 15, she was working her first part-time job with the agency that had already meant so much to her; and by 17, she earned her first college scholarship through the club’s Youth of the Year program. Those opportunities led her to a career in education and communications, and eventually back to serving the same organization that once served her.
Today, Nicole helps lead programs that focus on three core outcomes: academic success, healthy lifestyles and good character and leadership.
“The biggest thing the Boys & Girls Club does is help kids regulate their emotions,” said Nicole. “We’re an extension of home, an extension of church and a place where kids know they are cared for.”
Nicole emphasized that none of this would be possible without strong community partnerships.
“Mentors cost money, and everybody wants to get paid,” she said. “Having that relationship with United Way allows us to keep our costs low for parents while still giving kids great quality programs and after-school care.”
YPS Members Bring Giving to Life
YPS plays an important role in supporting this type of work at our partner agencies. Members are young professionals across Central Alabama who contribute $1,000 or more to United Way each year. They network with peers and local community and corporate leaders and often roll up their sleeves together at volunteer projects.
“YPS bridges the gap between philanthropy and community,” said Lauren Barnacastle, Director of Individual Giving. “Our members don’t just give—they show up, they serve and they build lasting relationships with the communities their gifts support.”
Attendees also spoke to the value of coming together.
“We’re excited to kick off the campaign season, connect with one another and hear more about the impact United Way makes,” said Holly Lowe, Steering Committee Member of YPS and Director of Insurance Programs at Brasfield & Gorrie.
The kickoff at Red or White was a perfect example of the networking opportunities YPS gives its members, with representatives from Brasfield & Gorrie, Southern Company, Regions Bank and other local organizations in attendance. To learn more about the Young Philanthropists Society, click here.