Torchbearers share United Way's message! We’ll give you something exciting to talk about.

No other organization in our community brings people together like United Way. People from all walks of life, backgrounds and circumstances work hand in hand with United Way to help improve individual lives and build a strong and healthy community.

United Way is currently recruiting dynamic and inspiring individuals for its Torchbearer program. We provide free professional training and work with your schedule.

What is the Torchbearer program?

Torchbearers serve as ambassadors for United Way. They have the opportunity to talk to many different workplace groups about United Way’s work in our community. Torchbearers come from many backgrounds. Primarily, they are staff members, volunteers and clientele of United Way’s funded agencies. What they all have in common is their passion for United Way.

Why join the Torchbearer program?

There are several great reasons to join United Way’s Torchbearer program. Here are just a few:

• Receive free professional training and coaching in public speaking
• Gain valuable public speaking experience
• Develop new networking opportunities
• Receive valuable audience feedback on your speaking skills
• Feel good about giving back to the community
• The opportunity to add “United Way Torchbearer” to your resume!

Your Commitment

Torchbearers are most active between August and December, when most workplaces run their annual campaigns. Torchbearers are normally asked to make at least one or two presentations each month. Presentations are scheduled at varying times of day. We work with your schedule to find the best fit. United Way provides guidelines to help you prepare a dynamic, compelling speech. All new Torchbearers must attend a training session. Returning speakers must attend a refresher session.

Training for New Speakers

To help ensure your success as a new Torchbearer, we provide free professional training. Our dynamic trainer will provide tips on making an effective presentation. Training date options for new members are:

• Wednesday, May 26, 1 - 5 p.m. 
• Tuesday, June 1, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Friday, June 18, 8 a.m. - noon

Refresher Session for returning members

As an experienced speaker you will be given an overview of helpful speaking tips and information about United Way’s key messages. Training date options for returning members are:

• Thursday, May 27, 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, June 8, 3:30 - 5 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 16, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

To reserve your spot in a Torchbearer training session, register here or contact Jessica Read at 317.921.1301 or jessica.read@uwci.org.