RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC: United Way of the Greater Triangle (UWGT) and United Way of Johnston County (UWJC) today announced an agreement to merge that will streamline the regional United Way system in the Triangle region for expanded service delivery and fundraising -- allowing greater focus on improving lives and building stronger communities. Key in service expansion to Johnston County is the addition of United Way’s 2-1-1 which provides callers with information about health and human services for every-day and once-in-a-lifetime needs.

“This is a landmark moment,” said James Speed, Jr., president and CEO of North Carolina Mutual and UWGT board chairman. “United Way will now consolidate back office administrative work and will focus more on the community. That is our mission.”

Danny Brown, UWJC board chairman said, “Change is difficult; however we have recognized the importance of making United Way more streamlined. This merger allows us to more effectively serve the people living and working in Johnston County. It is wonderful to have the strength of the United Way of the Greater Triangle behind all the programs and partner agencies in Johnston County.”

Terms of the agreement call for centralizing all support staff functions which will eliminate duplication and unneeded operational involvements.

Beside the changes to service delivery, other benefits of the merger include:

Addition of 2-1-1 Information and Referral Service, the 24-hour link to health and human service programs throughout the Triangle.

Streamlined experience for donors and companies who currently run campaigns in both United Ways.

Consistent branding and messaging throughout the Triangle.

Consolidation of administrative operations.

According to United Way officials, the fundamental activities that belong in the community, such as local fundraising and allocation, remain community-based. United Way will continue to have an office in Johnston County.

“Financial accountability and streamlined operations are paramount to United Way’s future,” said Craig Chancellor, President and CEO of United Way of the Greater Triangle. “Expanding our Triangle outreach effort greatly impacts the quality of life for all communities. Our partner agency services strengthen the four building blocks that are the foundation for a good life: education, income, health and safety,” Chancellor added.

Molly Parker, Vice President of Community Development for Johnston County said, “I am very pleased with the opportunity of working with the staff of the United Way of the Greater Triangle and the resources they can provide. I am also excited that we will continue to have our office in the county and I will continue to serve the people of Johnston County”, she said.

UWGT will continue its tradition of advancing the common good with the help of those who give, advocate and volunteer on behalf of United Way. The United Way of the Greater Triangle was formed in 1996 when the services for Durham, Orange and Wake counties were combined.