Cole Society

The Cole Society is the first step into an evolution of leadership giving.

Ana Cunningham

Assistant Director of Cole Society

The Cole Society is named in honor of Dr. Johnnetta B. Cole, a community champion, former president of both Spelman and Bennett Colleges, and former United Way of Greater Atlanta Board of Directors Chair.

Cole Society members play a critical role in community-focused philanthropy helping to advance United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Child Well-Being Agenda. There are nearly 8,000 Cole Society members who have invested over $12 million in Greater Atlanta, leading the way in making real, measurable impact on issues that matter most. By getting involved, you’re unlocking the potential of children, families, and communities.

Cole Society membership is open to those who give $1000 annually. This includes access to Women United and African-American Partnership.

Benefits

Engagement Groups

Join prominent engagement groups for women, African-Americans, and young professionals.

Investment Updates

Receive monthly updates on donor investments with invitations to signature events and volunteer opportunities.

Exclusive Events

Get invited to events and have opportunities to experience United Way’s work in the community, including nonprofit agency tours, member networking, and presentations from community leaders.

Audit Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP)

Get exclusive access to audit nonprofit board training sessions offered through our Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP), free of charge.

News and Events

Regional vice president Nicole Lawson Doll with donors at United Way's 120th Anniversary Celebration

December 1, 2025

Giving back gets more rewarding with 2026 tax law changes

Students play educational activities—the Georgia full-day Pre-K program that we know today is a direct result of GEEARS’s advocacy.

September 19, 2025

Setting GEEARS in motion

December 4, 2025

It takes a village: Reimagining schools as anchors of hope and opportunity

International Community School (ICS) is transforming education in DeKalb County as Metro Atlanta’s first elementary school to adopt the Community School Model. With support from United Way of Greater Atlanta, ICS connects academics with health services, family engagement, and community resources, making opportunity a promise for all.