Greenvillians are known for rolling up their sleeves — and Hands On Greenville makes it easy to get involved. A program of United Way of Greenville County, Hands On Greenville connects individuals and groups with flexible volunteer opportunities across more than 300 local nonprofits. No matter your passion, there’s a cause — and a community — ready to turn good intentions into meaningful action.
Care about the environment? Pitch in with ReWa and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources by helping collect oyster shells from area restaurants, which are recycled back into South Carolina’s coastal waters. Support a healthier urban canopy by volunteering with TreesUpstate, where every tree planted helps strengthen the region’s tree cover for generations to come.
Those drawn to people-centered work will find many ways to make a difference. United Ministries supports people on the path to self-sufficiency through programs like adult education, employment readiness and Place of Hope. Volunteers can tutor, practice interview skills with job seekers or simply lend a helping hand where it’s needed most.
Addressing food insecurity is another cornerstone of Greenville’s volunteer spirit. Project Host nourishes the hungry while providing job training for the unemployed. Volunteers can serve in the soup kitchen, tend the community garden or join a shared community dinner prepared by the organization’s culinary students — an experience that feeds both body and connection.
Making an impact can also be as simple as donating blood. The Blood Connection offers multiple donor centers and mobile drives throughout the Upstate, making it easy to give blood, plasma, platelets or red cells — or even host a drive of your own. Each whole-blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives.
For those who want to pair service with leadership and philanthropy, United Way Leadership Groups offer opportunities to connect with like-minded community members while creating lasting change.
United Way Leadership Groups
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African American Leadership Greenville
A group dedicated to uniting Black community members through philanthropy and volunteerism.
UnitedWayGC.org/AALG -
Women United
This local chapter of a national network of women is committed to making a difference.
UnitedWay.org/women-united -
Young Leaders Society
This group comprises engaged philanthropists under 40 who want to shape the future of the Upstate.
UnitedWayGC.org/Young-Leaders-Society -
ReUNITED
Seniors and retirees can use their time and talents to strengthen the community.
UnitedWayGC.org/ReUNITED
Behind many of these efforts is the Community Foundation of Greenville, which for more than 60 years has connected generosity with purpose. By building partnerships, supporting stewardship and advancing equity, the foundation continues to inspire impactful giving that helps individuals — and the community as a whole — reach their full potential.
