FMU STUDENTS CONTRIBUTE TO UNITED WAY OF FLORENCE COUNTY’S NEW WEBSITE

After more than a year of research, collaboration, and creative planning, United Way of Florence County has launched a newly redesigned website inspired in part by research and recommendations from students at Francis Marion University. The launch follows a broader brand refresh for United Way of Florence County.

While the organization introduced brighter colors, updated logos, and a more modern visual identity, the changes went far beyond appearance. In recent years, United Way has transformed the way it invests in the community, shifting away from spreading smaller amounts of funding across many organizations and instead focusing on making deeper, more strategic investments capable of creating long-term impact.

In 2025, the organization launched its first-ever collective impact grant process, opening the door for nonprofits across Florence County to apply for funding through a more intentional and community-centered approach. United Way also introduced new initiatives such as the Florence County Collective, designed to strengthen collaboration among local nonprofits, and the Barriers to Employment Program, which helps residents overcome obstacles preventing them from securing or maintaining employment.

As the organization’s work evolved, United Way recognized the need for its messaging and online presence to evolve as well. The redesigned website was created to better showcase the organization’s mission, increase transparency, highlight community impact, and connect residents with resources and opportunities throughout Florence County.

The updated site features improved navigation, stronger impact reporting, enhanced accessibility, and more engaging storytelling designed to help visitors better understand both the organization’s work and the lives being changed through community partnerships.

As part of the redesign process, United Way partnered with Francis Marion University through two class projects led by Dr. Kay Lawrimore-Belanger and Dr. Marie DeVincenzo. Students conducted research, developed website concepts, and provided feedback and recommendations that helped inspire portions of the organization’s refreshed online presence.

“Every semester, my class does a project for United Way, and I always encourage them to take the work seriously because their research could make a real difference,” said Dr. DeVincenzo.

“Students enroll in my class not knowing what to expect. It’s a class with no exams, but by the semester’s end, they will have had real world responsibilities. Working with organizations to provide marketing recommendations allows students to develop skills needed for successful careers,” Dr. Lawrimore-Belanger said.

United Way of Florence County President Cameron Campbell said the redesigned website reflects the organization’s continued growth and commitment to serving Florence County in meaningful ways.

“We are incredibly proud of the work we’ve been able to accomplish over the past several years, and this new website really reflects that growth,” Campbell said. “Francis Marion University has been a wonderful partner throughout this process, and that partnership has already led to two incredibly talented team members who first worked with us through classroom projects. It’s exciting to see those relationships grow into real careers while also helping advance our mission in the community.”

Community members are encouraged to explore the new website at uwflorence.org.

About United Way of Florence County

United Way works to create positive change across Florence County by deeply and strategically investing in local nonprofit programs that support youth opportunity, community health, and financial security.

United Way brings together donors, businesses, nonprofits, and residents to address the community’s greatest needs and create lasting impact. In addition to offering nonprofit grants, the organization connects residents to important services through the 211 resource referral line, supports nonprofit collaboration through the Florence County Collective, and organizes Day of Caring, the county’s largest annual volunteer event.