VALDOSTA–The United Way of Greater Valdosta continues to expand its message of helping others, hoping to open their newest location right across from Valdosta State University some time this week. 

With New Executive Director Michael Smith and the new location on Patterson Street, the leadership of the Valdosta chapter is hoping to build a better connection with the community.

“Community awareness is a weakness of ours right now,” Board Chairman Jonathan Miller said in a statement to WCTV. “We’re really trying to bolster the visibility of the agency, and I think the traffic alone in front of this location is going to do that.”

Greater Valdosta United Way currently serves 19 agencies across Lowndes, Lanier, Brooks, Echols, and Berrien County. 

Smith believes that the new location will not only give new opportunities for other local organizations but will also build a strong foundation of community support.

“Our agencies are busy every day serving the needs of hungry, abused, neglected, broken homes and disabled people,” said Smith. “They don’t have the time sometimes to build the relationships with local government officials, bank presidents, businesses and community leaders.”

He hopes that by holding breakfast events with these local officials and leaders, Greater Valdosta United Way can bring awareness to those who can provide help to those who need it most. 

“When we support those agencies we help mend those problems and bring solutions to those hurting, and at the end of the day, what’s more important than that,” said Miller.