By Katie Northcott, News Director
United Way of South Central Tennessee raised nearly $60,000 for ALICE families during its United in Spirits event on June 13.
Find more details in the press release below:
“The annual United in Spirits event once again brought together community members, business leaders, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for an evening of connection, celebration, and impact across South Central Tennessee—raising close to $60,000 to support local programs and services. DOT Foods and Jack Daniels were the Title Sponsors of the evening.
“Funds raised from the event will go directly toward internal programs and services of the United Way of South Central Tennessee, including support for ALICE families (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed households) as well as the organization’s annual community grant funding that distributes resources to local partner agencies across the region.
“United Way of South Central Tennessee works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good. Its focus areas include education, financial stability, and health—ensuring individuals and families have access to the tools and resources needed to thrive. A significant portion of its work centers on supporting ALICE households, who often earn above the federal poverty level but still struggle to afford basic necessities such as housing, childcare, transportation, and healthcare (Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed).
“Hosted in the scenic hills of Lynchburg, the event featured a VIP Sponsor Party sponsored by TN Whiskey Trailhead/Experience TN, where guests gathered overlooking the rolling landscape of Lynchburg, Tennessee. Sponsors, partners, and community leaders shared conversation and recognition of the generosity that makes the event possible year after year.
“As the evening continued, guests transitioned into the main event on BBQ Hill, provided gorgeous views of Lynchburg and featured live entertainment, dinner, short program, and a silent auction. Throughout the night, the focus remained on the shared mission of strengthening South Central Tennessee through collective community support.
“The silent auction was one of the evening’s highlights, drawing enthusiastic participation and spirited bidding on a wide range of items. Every bid contributed directly to United Way programs and services, helping drive the night’s fundraising total. Huge thank you to those businesses and individuals that donated to the silent auction.
“Music helped define the atmosphere throughout the event. Tyler Phillips and The Copper Wire Band performed during the VIP Sponsor Party at TN Whiskey Trailhead, setting a celebratory tone, while Michael Childress—sponsored by Common John Brewing Co.—kept the energy going later in the evening at BBQ Hill.
“Organizers expressed gratitude to every sponsor, donor, volunteer, performer, and attendee whose support made the evening possible. Their contributions continue to fuel programs that strengthen communities and expand opportunity across South Central Tennessee.
“United in Spirits once again demonstrated the power of community collaboration—turning an evening of celebration into nearly $60,000 in support for ALICE families, local partner agencies, and vital programs serving the region.”
