United Way of Cullman County has long been a trusted partner in strengthening our community. What began as a cooperative effort to meet the growing human service needs of Cullman County has grown into a regional network of support serving both Cullman and Winston Counties. Through partnerships, generosity, and a shared commitment to helping neighbors in need, United Way continues to connect people with the resources that change lives.
United Way of Cullman County was officially incorporated on May 23, 1979, as The Cullman County United Fund. The organization was created to bring community members together to address local challenges and support the vital work of nonprofit agencies serving families across the area.
Over the decades, the organization evolved into what we know today as United Way of Cullman County. Through volunteerism, community partnerships, and local giving, United Way has helped strengthen programs that improve health, expand opportunity, and provide stability for families throughout our region.
Today, United Way continues to unite individuals, businesses, and organizations around a shared goal: building a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community. From childhood literacy initiatives to emergency assistance programs, every effort reflects a simple truth — when we LIVE UNITED, we all thrive.
This work began with the vision and dedication of our founding board members, whose commitment to service helped plant the roots for the organization we know today.
Founding Board Members
Carol Stiefelmeyer, Jr. (President)
Fred Robertson (Vice President)
June F. Hearin (Secretary)
Lowell Hamilton (Treasurer)
Fred W. Abt
Ted Alverson
Ronald H. Apel
Edmund D. Campbell
Melba Dunn
Estus Durham
Harmon Eller
Wayne Fuller
Peggy Harris
Davidson Henry
Wallace D. Krout
Sue Lorenz
Ernest L. Reddick
W. H. Whitting, Jr.
Their leadership laid the foundation for decades of collaboration, compassion, and community impact.
Part of a Global Movement
While United Way of Cullman County serves our local communities, it is part of a much larger story.
The United Way movement began on October 16, 1887, in Denver, Colorado. A woman, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi came together with a shared vision: to improve their community through cooperation and collective giving. They formed the Charity Organization Society, coordinating local services and launching a single fundraising campaign to support more than 20 health and welfare agencies.
That first campaign raised $21,700, a remarkable amount at the time, and sparked a movement that would grow into the Community Chest, United Fund, and eventually the United Way network we know today.
More than a century later, that founding spirit continues to guide United Way’s work. Through collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to community needs, United Way organizations across the globe work to advance health, education, and financial stability.
Today, United Way connects communities in thousands of locations around the world, sharing ideas, strengthening partnerships, and working together to create lasting change.
Because when communities come together with purpose, real progress is possible.