United Way of North Carolina, a local independent non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization founded in 1953, serves 60 local United Ways across the state. In 1999, United Way of North Carolina began exploring the possibilities of a 2-1-1 system. A 2-1-1 task force submitted an application to the North Carolina Public Utilities Commission for designation of the three-digit number to be used for health and human service information, referral, and volunteer opportunities. The Commission designated United Way of North Carolina as the “holder” of the 2-1-1 number on November 18, 1999. 2-1-1 is currently available in 48 counties covering approximately 62% of North Carolina’s population including: Alamance, Alexander, Anson, Avery, Brunswick, Buncombe, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Caswell, Catawba, Chatham, Columbus, Davie, Davidson, Durham, Edgecombe, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Harnett, Henderson, Haywood, Johnson, Lee, Lincoln, Madison, Mecklenburg, Moore, Nash, New Hanover, Pender, Person, Onslow, Orange, Randolph, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, South Iredell, Surry, Transylvania, Union, Vance, Wake, Warren, Watauga and Wayne counties. Last year more than 60,000 people found help by calling 2-1-1. Today, there is limited coverage east of I-95 which encompasses the entire coastline of the state. This is of great concern since the North Carolina coastline has been a target for hurricanes and the disconnect that occurs after such an event. United Way of North Carolina is working closely with local United Ways/United Funds to accelerate the statewide roll-out of the 2-1-1 system. Surry County came onboard with the 2-1-1 system in August of 2010.With support from Duke Energy, United Fund of Surry covers all costs for the operation of 2-1-1.
For over 50 years, United Fund of Surry has been actively supporting member agencies by building financial support through fundraising campaigns. Its annual campaigns have raised over $8 million to support member agencies, making United Fund of Surry the largest fund raising organization in Surry County.
