United Way of Central West Virginia’s sponsored programs are responsible for providing direct services in response to identified needs in the community. This division works collaboratively with numerous partners throughout the greater Kanawha Valley area and statewide to deliver services effectively and efficiently. Operating with a budget of more than $2 million secured from local, state, federal, and foundation sources, our sponsored programs engage employees, members, and volunteers in strengthening families and improving the lives of people of all ages throughout the service area.
Jump To: Adolescent Health Initiative | LifeBridge AmeriCorps | Americorps VISTA | Information and Referral | Retired Senior Volunteer Program | Foster Grandparent Program | Earned Income Tax Credit Program (EITC)
Adolescent Health Initiative 
The Adolescent Health Initiative (AHI) program is a resource and stepping stone for youth age 12-17 to learn more about their sparks- what makes them, them! This Program gives pre-teens/young adults outlets for their hobbies, helps them reach personal goals, and offers them help for their future, all while letting them know they have a safe space they can come to when life becomes too heavy to carry alone. We cover 4 counties- Boone, Clay, Kanawha, and Putnam. For over 20 years, this Program has strived to offer young adults the best options to become their BEST!
For more information on the Adolescent Health Initiative, contact Erica Honaker United Way of Central West Virginia by calling 304-340-3622
LifeBridge AmeriCorps
Since 1994, LifeBridge AmeriCorps has successfully created positive change for thousands of vulnerable and economically disadvantaged individuals across the state of West Virginia. The mission of LifeBridge AmeriCorps is to utilize a diverse group of National Service members to build and strengthen WV communities by addressing the most critical needs of citizens through direct service and volunteering. LifeBridge fulfills its mission by addressing four Corporation for National and Community Service areas: improving educational outcomes, expanding economic opportunities, improving access to healthy futures, and impacting the quality of life of veterans and improving military family strength. Through the service of full-time members and leveraged volunteers, LifeBridge AmeriCorps provides immediate and long-term benefits by expanding individual opportunity, building family stability, and creating more sustainable communities. AmeriCorps members receive extensive training to meet community needs and to meet their own personal and professional goals.
For more information about the AmeriCorps program contact Angela Collier LifeBridge AmeriCorps Director, at 304-340-3519
Americorps*VISTA
AmeriCorps*VISTA (Volunteers In Service to America), located in 12 counties in West Virginia, is part of a tradition of service and represents America at its best: making a sustainable impact, while promoting values of community, responsibility, and opportunity. Members recruit community volunteers to provide sustained reading opportunities for children, provide parent/child enrichment activities, and provide educational information for families in the areas of health, fitness and nutrition. Members also support literacy programs through grant writing and soliciting donations, and build organizational infrastructure to support literacy programs.
For more information about the AmeriCorps*VISTA program contact Brooke Jones AmeriCorps*VISTA director, at 304-340-3620
WV 211 - Information and Referral
Life is unpredictable. That’s why caring people, throughout the United Way of Central WV service area, are ready to lend a helping hand – just when you need it most.
United Way of Central WV’s Information and Referral (I&R) and WV 2-1-1 matches existing community resources and services with individuals and families who need them.
Dial 211, when you need help or information about available social services. It's easy to remember and will connect you to the statewide service. 211 provides referrals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Text your zip code to 898211 or visit WV211.org to message for resources close to you. Keep in mind 211 is for non-emergency assistance only. Callers needing emergency medical, fire or police assistance should call 911.
I&R oversees the annual Christmas Bureau, established to coordinate the efforts of the community in its holiday giving. Christmas Bureau is a partnership of 30 toy and food providers, and agencies that accept applications. If you are in need of Christmas food or toys please call the Christmas Bureau after September 1 for information on resources in your area.
The staff of I&R work with FEMA, WV VOAD, and Emergency Management during times of disaster. They keep a list of shelters, warming or cooling stations, water suppliers, and other vital information to share with the affected public. I&R remains involved in a variety of community activities that include but are not limited to Rebuilding Together Charleston, United Way Day of Caring, West Virginia Mountain AIRS (Alliance of Information and Referral Systems), Volunteer West Virginia, Family Resource Networks and educational/health fairs.
For more information about the WV 211, United Way of Central WV Information and Referral, you may call direct 304-414-4405 or toll free 800-540-8659
RSVP - Lead with Experience
The Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is America’s largest volunteer network for people age 55 and over. Join RSVP and you join nearly 500,000 volunteers across the country who are tackling tough issues in their communities. RSVP of the United Way of Central West Virginia currently serves Boone, Cabell, Harrison, Kanawha, Lincoln, Mercer, Monroe, Preston, Putnam, Summers, Upshur and Wayne Counties. Our members serve at a variety of area nonprofits, assisting local health care providers, emergency services, blood donor services, food banks, schools, and nursing homes. They help promote independent living through senior assistance, provide office support and computer skills to nonprofits, and take the lead in organizing neighborhood projects.
For more information on this program, contact Amber Flynn RSVP Director, or call 304-340-3524.
Foster Grandparent Program – Share Today. Shape Tomorrow.
Since 1965, Foster Grandparents have shared their love, time and experience helping children in need. Foster Grandparents are role models, mentors and friends. Serving at schools, after school programs, day care and youth facilities they help children learn to read provide one-on-one tutoring, and guide children at a critical time in their lives. Foster Grandparents give the kind of comfort and love that sets a child on the path toward a successful future.
If you’re at least 55 years of age and want to share your experience and compassion, you have what it takes to be a Foster Grandparent. Foster Grandparents volunteer from 15 to 40 hours per week and receive a small stipend so they may volunteer without cost to themselves. Our Foster Grandparent Program serves Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, Lincoln, Logan, Mason, Putnam and Wayne counties. When you volunteer, you’re not just helping others, you’re helping yourself. Volunteering leads to new discoveries and new friends. Plus, volunteering promotes a positive outlook on life.
For more information, contact Amber Flynn FGP Director at 304-340-3636
Earned Income Tax Credit Program (EITC)
EITC is an IRS-sponsored program working with the West Virginia Alliance for Sustainable Families (WVASF) and community organizations to provide high quality tax preparation to eligible tax filers—free of charge!
There are sites all over the state, from inside libraries, universities, to local social service organizations all trying to help lessen the stress of completing your federal and state taxes each year. EITC in central WV covers six counties - Boone, Clay, Kanawha, Logan, Putnam, and Mingo County.
If you would like to volunteer, serve as a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance site, or book an appointment for the upcoming tax season, contact Cassandra Curtis, Coalition Director, 304-340-3500