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Equitable Pathways

We’re committed to providing equitable opportunities for socioeconomically disadvantaged students to thrive.  We do this by funding innovative and action-oriented health and wellbeing programs that share common goals.

Program Focus Areas

Increasing the number of socio-economically disadvantaged students who earn a high school diploma, enroll in a postsecondary institution, and are on track to graduate.

Workforce development strategy that supports students and educators through targeted investments aligned to the key focus areas below.

Grant applications available again January 2026.

We’re currently updating our grant application process for 2026. During this time, the portal will be unavailable.

Applications will reopen in early January 2026.

Thank you for your understanding. Please visit us again soon for the revised application process.

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Social Emotional
Health

Building resilience and problem-solving skills as well as fostering relationships.
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Career and Post-
Secondary Prep

Raising aspirations and increasing exposure to careers. Providing internships, apprenticeships, training.
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Remove Barriers
to Success

Post-secondary persistence and attainment. Providing early career support.

Requests for Contributions

Requests are considered throughout the year and are reviewed by our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) representatives in our local areas.

Please contact the CSR representative in your community before completing an application:

Corporate:
Cary Olson Cartwright
carolynolson@unum.com

Baton Rouge, Louisiana:
Jacquelyn Webb
jwebb4@unum.com

Chattanooga, Tennessee:
Rachel Hargis
rhargis@unum.com

Atlanta, Georgia:
Jacquelyn Webb
jwebb4@unum.com
Columbia, South Carolina:
Marie McGehee
ammcgehee@coloniallife.com

Portland, Maine:
Kelly Thayer
kthayer2@unum.com

Field Offices:
giving@unum.com

Charitable Giving Guidelines
 
Unum does not fund:
  • Organizations that have a written policy of discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or protected veteran status, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression
  • Religious or anti-religious organizations & activities
  • Institutions or organizations that promote violence or discrimination
  • Political institutions or campaigns
  • Capital or endowment campaigns that don't align with our program objectives
  • For-profit businesses
  • College or university associations, alumni dues or alumni activities
  • Extracurricular activities (Little League, sport teams, etc.)
  • Direct services to individuals or families
  • Rotaries, social clubs and social club foundations (Sororities, Fraternities, etc.)