Our History
United Way of the CSRA has a proud legacy of volunteer leadership, fundraising, and community service spanning more than eight decades.
1936
A group of local businessmen and community leaders formed the Character Coalition to unify community fundraising efforts. Their first campaign raised $80,000—distributed to five youth-serving organizations: the YMCA, YWCA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, and the Salvation Army. Adjusted for today’s value, that would exceed $1.4 million. By the end of the decade, the campaign grew to nearly $150,000.
1951
The arrival of approximately 45,000 workers and their families to Richmond and Aiken Counties for the Savannah River Project created new demands for health and welfare services. In response, the Character Coalition evolved into the Community Chest.
1956
Following a collaboration between agencies in Augusta and North Augusta, leaders in both communities united to conduct a joint fundraising campaign. The Community Chest became known as the United Fund during this time.
1974
The United Fund’s growth led to a new campaign structure and the first $1 million campaign, funding 26 member agencies. In 1975, the organization relocated from the Bankers First Building to 630 Ellis Street in Augusta, Georgia.
1982
After several name changes, the organization officially became United Way of the CSRA.
1986
The organization celebrated its 50th anniversary.
2004
United Way launched its 2-1-1 Information and Referral Service, receiving its first call that year.
2006
The community raised a record-breaking $4,416,203, the largest campaign total to date.
2011
Marking 75 years of service, United Way of the CSRA moved into a new home on the Ray and Joan Kroc Salvation Army Corps Community Center campus—also known as “First Stop Village” at 1765 Broad Street. More than 75 years later, the children and grandchildren of those early visionaries continue their legacy of commitment to making the CSRA a stronger, healthier community through United Way.
2014
United Way’s 2-1-1 service celebrated a decade of connecting residents across a 15-county area with vital resources and support.
2015
The Legacy Impact Forever (LIFE) Planned Giving and Endowment Fund was launched to secure the organization’s long-term impact.
2019
United Way introduced the Leading Families Forward initiative, focused on equipping children, young adults, and families with the tools and resources to reach their fullest potential.
2020
United Way of the CSRA responded to the challenges of the COVID-19 era by expanding its community impact through emergency relief efforts, support for vulnerable populations, and strengthened partnerships.
2021–2025
Building on this momentum, United Way launched several key programs to address community needs:
During this period, United Way also expanded its service footprint to include Screven County and strengthened regional collaboration through the Continuum of Care, helping to address homelessness and housing stability across the CSRA.
- Ride United: Providing safe, reliable transportation for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
- VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance): Offering free tax preparation services to low-to-moderate income families.
- Project DASH: Delivering support and resources to children and families affected by domestic violence and homelessness.
- Mission United: A partnership aimed at supporting veterans and military families with critical services.
During this period, United Way also expanded its service footprint to include Screven County and strengthened regional collaboration through the Continuum of Care, helping to address homelessness and housing stability across the CSRA.