Our History
A Legacy of Impact
Since 1988, Communities In Schools of Greensboro-Guilford has been dedicated to surrounding students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Our journey reflects decades of commitment, innovation, and transformative impact.
Our Founding Vision
In 1988, three visionaries came together with a bold idea: to bring community resources directly into schools to support students facing barriers to success.
Hayes Clement
Co-Founder
Jim Melvin
Co-Founder
GSO Dev
Partner
1988
The Beginning
Communities In Schools of Greensboro-Guilford was founded by Hayes Clement, Jim Melvin, and the Greensboro Development Corporation with a vision to transform how communities support students in need. This groundbreaking initiative brought together education, business, and social services in an unprecedented partnership.
1992
Recognition & Growth
A pivotal year of recognition and expansion:
- Admitted to United Way with a $60,000 allocation, validating our impact and sustainability
- Received “Those Who Care” Award, recognizing our dedication to student success
- Launched First Student Awards Luncheon, celebrating student achievements and establishing a tradition that continues today
1994
Leadership & Excellence
A year of leadership transition and community recognition:
- Jimmi Williams Named Executive Director, bringing fresh vision and strategic leadership to the organization
- Outstanding Volunteer Award from the Volunteer Center, honoring exceptional community engagement
- Outstanding Volunteer Program Award, recognizing our innovative approach to mobilizing community support
2004
Expanding Our Reach
CISGG secured a contract with Guilford County to serve TANF/Work First families, expanding our capacity to support students and families facing economic challenges. This partnership enabled us to serve 2,375 students, marking a significant milestone in our growth and demonstrating our ability to deliver comprehensive support services at scale.
2007
After-School Innovation
Launched Success at School, a comprehensive after-school enrichment and daycare program at selected Title I schools. This program provided critical support for working families while offering students academic enrichment, homework assistance, and engaging activities in a safe, supportive environment.
2012
Record Growth & New Initiatives
A landmark year of expansion and impact:
- African-American Male Mentoring Initiative launched to provide targeted support and positive role models for young men
- United Way allocation reached $389,000 reflecting growing community confidence in our work
- Served 4,348 students, nearly doubling our reach from 2004
2013
Historic Investment
Largest grant in CIS history: Edward M. Armfield Foundation awarded $200,000 to support after-school programming, enabling unprecedented expansion of services.
Additionally, CISGG received the Award of Excellence from NCA&TSU/UNCG Field Instruction Program, recognizing our commitment to training the next generation of social service professionals.
2014
Silver Anniversary
Celebrated our 25th Anniversary, marking a quarter-century of transforming lives in Guilford County. This milestone year also saw CISGG receive renewed national accreditation, affirming our commitment to excellence and adherence to the highest standards of service delivery in the Communities In Schools network.
2022
Transformational Recognition
MacKenzie Scott donated $133 million to Communities In Schools nationally in recognition of our proven national impact on student success and our evidence-based model of integrated student supports.
This historic investment validated CIS’s approach and positioned the network for unprecedented expansion of services nationwide.
2022-23
Strategic Partnership
Named a United Way “Ending Poverty” Strategic Partner, recognizing CISGG’s critical role in breaking the cycle of poverty through education. This designation reflects our comprehensive approach to addressing the root causes of educational barriers and our measurable impact on student and family economic mobility.
Today
Continuing the Legacy
Building on over three decades of experience, CISGG continues to evolve and expand our impact. We now serve thousands of students across Guilford County, providing comprehensive support services, specialized interventions, and a network of caring adults dedicated to student success. Our commitment remains unwavering: to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life.
Years of Service
Students Served
Partner Schools
Graduation Rate
Stay in School Rate
Be Part of Our Story
Join us in writing the next chapter of impact and transformation in our community