Young Professionals increase 1831 Gala charitable contribution by fifty percent in second year
March 13, 2017
Spartanburg Young Professionals (SYP) and the United Way of the Piedmont Young Leaders (YL) unveiled a $15,050.01 contribution to Upstate Warrior Solution, made possible by proceeds from the second annual 1831 Gala.
The 1831 Gala, named to reflect the founding date of Spartanburg, was held on January 20 at The Piedmont Club. The event serves a dual purpose: enhancing quality of life for young professionals by providing a unique social opportunity, and empowering the groups to continue Spartanburg’s long history of philanthropy.
“Spartanburg has a growing population of young professionals, so we’re trying to ensure they are engaged in and enjoying the community,” said Martin Huff, chairman of YL and member of SYP. “The event is a perfect match for both organizations’ missions, creating a fun night out in Spartanburg while encouraging young people to give back.”
The event, which attracted 250 young professionals, featured music by The Black and Blue Experience and heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by the Piedmont Club.
In its inaugural year, the organizations donated $10,000 to Upstate Warrior Solution. The organizing committee decided to continue with Upstate Warrior Solution as its beneficiary for the second year.
“We were able to use the funding to increase our outreach and case coordination services to more warriors in Spartanburg County, and to facilitate the start of a Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) in Spartanburg, in partnership with the 7th Judicial Circuit and the Solicitor’s office,” said Charlie Hall, president of Upstate Warrior Solution. “This year’s funding will enable us to continue VTC and increase our community outreach and engagement via our Fellowship Program – a six month internship for disabled veterans that readies them for the workforce.”
Upstate Warrior Solution is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that connects warriors – any person who is currently serving or has served in the United States Armed Forces – and their families to resources and opportunities, leads them through the process of self-empowerment, and inspires the community to embrace local warriors and their families as valued neighbors and friends.
The young professional organizations intend to host the 1831 Gala again in January 2018.
About Spartanburg Young Professionals
Spartanburg Young Professionals engages young adults in the Spartanburg community by providing its members with social, leadership and civic opportunities. SYP, aimed at professionals age 21-40, is coordinated through the Spartanburg Area Chamber of Commerce, and achieves its mission by: educating and developing the next generation of Spartanburg’s leaders, creating social environments where young professionals can network and connect, enhancing the visibility of young professionals in the Spartanburg community, and encouraging young professionals to remain in and locate to the Spartanburg area. For more information, visit www.ypspartanburg.com.
About United Way of the Piedmont Young Leaders
Young Leaders are donors in their twenties and thirties who want to work to make our community better through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy with United Way of the Piedmont. For more information, visit www.uwpiedmont.org.
