Margaret O’Neal
President and CPO
Winners 2024
Dancing with the Stars
Thank you for the opportunity to share the current state and future direction of your United Way. I’m proud to say that we are stronger than ever, making a meaningful difference across the communities we serve.
United Way Central West Virginia continues to serve as a convener and connector—bringing together people, programs, and resources across our six-county region. We are the organization individuals turn to when they want to get involved, give back, volunteer, or better understand the nonprofit landscape.
From Day of Caring to Dancing with the Stars, and from pantry painting to stocking shelves, volunteers remain the heart of our work. Each year, thousands of community members step forward, and their collective support results in hundreds of thousands of dollars raised. These funds go directly toward feeding families, providing after-school programs, buying shoes for children, and offering shelter and safety for our most vulnerable neighbors—and so much more.
We also respond when disaster strikes. Whether it’s a large-scale emergency or a personal crisis like utility shutoff or eviction, United Way is often among the first to act. Through WV 211 and other emergency response efforts, we help people regain stability and hope.
United Way Central West Virginia is also focused on helping ALICE households—those who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed. These hardworking families earn above the federal poverty level yet still struggle to afford essentials like housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare. According to United for ALICE data, nearly half of all households (48%) in our region live below the ALICE Threshold—17% in poverty and 31% classified as ALICE. These families are the backbone of our community, essential workers who keep our economy running, but are often just one emergency away from financial crisis. United Way Central West Virginia is committed to changing that. With dedicated partnerships and programs—and funding available to assist ALICE families on a case-by-case basis—we provide resources and pathways that help working households move toward financial stability and long-term success.
Nearly half of households in Central West Virginia struggle financially, and United Way Central West Virginia is providing targeted support and funding to help ALICE families achieve lasting stability.
At the center of this mission-driven work is our staff—a dedicated, passionate team committed to service. They show up each day ready to fight for those in need, support our events, and ensure every volunteer and guest feels welcome and respected. We’re also fortunate to have a deeply engaged Board of Directors whose strong governance allows you to trust that your contributions are used wisely and stay local—working every day to improve lives and strengthen communities.
As we enter a new fiscal year, launch a new campaign, and prepare for Season 5 of Dancing with the Stars, we move forward with hope and confidence. We believe that United Way brings people together to find strength, share hope, and create lasting change.
United is the way forward. United is the way.