04/07/2026
PROFILE - Jackie Wilson is an Audit Manager for United Bank and is a longtime partner of Griffin-Spalding County United Way.
We are proud to recognize her longstanding commitment to advancing our community by featuring her as this week's community profile.
1) What moment in your career or life most reinforced your belief in the importance of community-driven organizations like Griffin-Spalding County United Way?
"One of the most meaningful experiences that reinforced my belief in the importance of community‑driven organizations like Griffin-Spalding County United Way has come from the opportunities I’ve had through my employers—most recently United Bank, where I’ve worked for the past sixteen years. Each organization I’ve been part of has encouraged involvement in local nonprofits, and that exposure has been truly eye‑opening.
I am continually inspired by the generosity of the people of Griffin and Spalding County. One of my favorite traditions is volunteering as a bell ringer for the Salvation Army during the Christmas season. Since the Salvation Army receives support from United Way, I’m able to see firsthand how these partnerships strengthen our community.
Every year, I’m moved by the outpouring of kindness—from families teaching their children the value of giving, to the simple but powerful impact of a smile or a kind word. Those moments remind me how deeply community support matters and how organizations like United Way help make that spirit of giving possible."
2) How has serving with United Way changed you?
"Serving with United Way has genuinely changed the way I see both our community and the challenges many families face. My first experience was through the Allocations process back some 20 years ago, give or take, where I had the opportunity to visit three local organizations seeking United Way funding. Seeing their work up close opened my eyes to the incredible dedication within our community—and to the very real needs that often go unseen.
What impacted me most was realizing how difficult it can be for someone to ask for help. Sometimes a single financial setback can jeopardize something as essential as paying rent or having transportation to work. Beyond the practical hardship, it can deeply affect a person’s confidence and sense of self‑worth. No one should have to face that alone, yet life doesn’t always give us a choice.
Knowing that United Way is there—just a phone call away (211)—to connect people with resources and support has strengthened my belief in the importance of this work. It has made me more compassionate, more aware, and more committed to helping ensure that no one in our community feels they have to navigate hardship without support."
3) As we just concluded Women’s History Month, which female historical figure most inspired you and why?
"Florence Nightingale has always been one of the female historical figures who inspires me most. She was a true trailblazer—someone who not only transformed the field of nursing but also demonstrated extraordinary compassion and determination in serving others. Her willingness to go the extra mile for people in need, often under the most challenging circumstances, is something I deeply admire.
I hope to carry that same spirit in my own life: to always be ready to help others and to encourage those around me to lend a hand whenever they can. Her legacy reminds me that even small acts of service can create lasting impact, and that caring for others is one of the most meaningful contributions we can make."
