Beyond Poverty GSO: Bold Ideas. Shared Power. Real Change.

A transformational 2-day Summit by United Way of Greater Greensboro focused on advancing solutions to poverty and socioeconomic inequity.

5 & 7
Nov. 2025

First Presbyterian Church & GTCC Colfax Campus

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Why Attend

Be part of the solution

This Summit isn’t just about discussing poverty. Over two days, you will:

  • Hear inspiring stories from national voices and local leaders
  • Learn practical solutions you can take back to your work, place of worship, or community
  • Connect across sectors with business, government, nonprofit, and grassroots leaders
  • Be empowered to act with resources, tools, and partnerships that spark change

You’ll leave with new connections, practical ideas, and renewed conviction to build a stronger Greensboro.

What to Expect

The Beyond Poverty GSO Summit brings together people who care about building a more just and thriving community. Expect high-energy keynotes, interactive breakout sessions, networking and collaboration, and tools you can use immediately.

Register for one or both days. Space is limited

Day One

November 5, 2025

First Presbyterian Church Mullin Life Center
706 Greene St.,
Greensboro, NC 27401

10:00 AM – 12:30 PM Poverty Simulation led by Triad Goodwill

An immersive, interactive experience that simulates the daily challenges of living in poverty.

Lunch will be provided.

Day Two

November 7, 2025

Conference Center at GTCC
7908 Leabourne Rd.,
Colfax, NC 27235

8:00 AM:   Registration & Breakfast
9:00 AM:   Why Ending Poverty Matters – Opening Panel
10:00 AM:   Reflections & the Day Ahead
10:30 AM: Break
10:45 AM: General Session – A New Lens on Financial Hardship
12:00 PM:   Lunch & Table Conversations
1:30 PM:   Breakout Sessions
2:30 PM: Break
2:45 PM:  General Session Advocacy and Action
3:15 PM:   Closing Remarks
4:00 PM:  Event Ends

Speakers

Meet the voices driving change. Our speakers bring lived experience, innovative ideas, and practical solutions to guide, challenge, and inspire us toward a more equitable and just community.

Kiran Handa Gaudioso

CEO of United Way of Northern New Jersey and President of United For ALICE

Kiran leads efforts to improve life for ALICE households and those in poverty. She launched initiatives like the ALICE Recovery Fund and United in Care, co-chaired Governor Murphy’s advisory council, and previously held leadership roles at New Jersey After 3 and Sponsor For Educational Opportunity.

Kiran received her B.A. in political science and policy studies from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. She received a fellowship to attend The Eagleton Institute of Public Politics at Rutgers University, earning her M.A. in political science.

Alice Mahood

Director of Integrated Data and Services for Guilford County

David Williams

President of Lorac Academy Truck Driving School,

Danielle A. Harrison

Strategist and Developer of People, Communities and Organizations

Heather Adams

Executive Director of the Guilford County Partnership for Children

Jamese Ivy

United Way of Greater Charlotte as Chief Impact Officer

Raven Welch

Guilford County Nurse Manager, Cone Health Congregational & Community Nurse Program

Philip H. Kosak

President, Carolina Fine Snacks

Melissa Slade Smith

Director of Workforce Development Solutions at the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

Laura Happer

Market Network Director – Triad, Veterans Bridge Home

Jacqueline Donahue

Market Vice President – Triad, Veterans Bridge Home

Gregory Liggs Sr.

CPSS, Certified Peer Support Specialist

Shereá D. Burnett, J.D.

Advocate and Visionary Leader Committed to Advancing Equity for Underrepresented Communities

Topics and Themes

Conversations That Matter

1

Understanding Poverty

The root causes, dimensions, and lived realities

2

Why Poverty Reduction Matters

The impact on community wellbeing and economic vitality

3

Our Responsibility to Act

Inspiration and tools to pursue meaningful change