Why join YLS?
There are many worthwhile groups for young professionals in Columbia…so what makes YLS different? For one thing, we’re affiliated with the United Way, a four-star charity that addresses local needs right here in the Midlands. Through our work, you can be sure that you’re making the biggest impact with your limited time and making connections with your peers that will last a lifetime.

How to Join
Join YLS and enjoy networking and volunteer opportunities that will help you give back and feel good. Ages 21-40 welcome!
Required UNRESTRICTED donation to join YLS:
- Ages 21-29: $250 annually | $21 a month
- Ages 30-40: $500 annually | $42 a month
You can join online or download our membership form.
Submit completed donation forms to:
United Way of the Midlands
Attn: Sheldon Paschal
1818 Blanding Street
Columbia, SC 29201
BECOME A SPONSOR
Sponsors allow us to hold events without the use of donor dollars. Thank you to our sponsors for enabling us to Plug In and Lead On while maximizing our impact in the community.
Questions?
Contact:
Sheldon Paschal
Philanthropy Officer, Young Leaders Society
spaschal@uway.org
803.758.6995
YLS Oyster Roast
Thanks for coming out to shuck some oysters with us at our annual Oyster Roast! We had a great time connecting with all of you and dancing to tunes provided by DJLiv. Special thanks to our Lead On Supporting Sponsors, Drew & Reece Stevens and Miller Valentine Group, Event Sponsors and In-Kind Sponsors. This year's Oyster Roast wouldn't have been as successful without your support.

Reading really is fundamental.
Research shows that raising a child in a home filled with books creates better academic outcomes later in life. Our “Be a Book Bunny” program distributes literacy bags to over 500 students served by the Midlands Reading Consortium to help children build personal libraries at home. With your help, we can encourage reading both in and out of the classroom to help kids develop healthy reading habits that will serve them well for the rest of their lives.

Give Back, Have Fun
YLS donors enjoy many exclusive opportunities throughout the year, including volunteer projects, professional development and networking opportunities, and invitations to signature events like the YLS Oyster Roast and Cocktails & Conversations.

Upcoming Events
Learning with Leaders Series: Small Biz, Big Dreams in Five Points
Wednesday, June 7, 2023 | 5:30-7:30 PM
Join us for the next installment of the YLS Learning with Leaders series in partnership with All Good Books, on June 7 from 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Tickets are $10 for YLS donors and $15 for guests, which covers heavy hors d'oeuvres and one drink ticket. This installment, Small Biz, Big Dreams in Five...