The Tocqueville Society is a group of extraordinary community leaders and philanthropists who invest $10,000 or more annually with Trident United Way. Through philanthropy and service, members demonstrate deep commitment to making the Tri-County a better place in which to live and work.

Established in 1984 - United Way’s Tocqueville Society honors local philanthropic leaders and dedicated volunteers who generously contribute their time, talent and resources to drive lasting change and address our community’s most pressing challenges. With an annual investment of $10,000 or more, Tocqueville Society members are the leaders of philanthropy in the Tri-County.

Named after French historian Alexis de Tocqueville who recognized, celebrated and immortalized the true spirit of volunteerism that lives in America’s heart, our Tocqueville Society brings together a distinguished group of individuals who share a keen devotion to our community and to its future generations
 

How to Join the Trident United Way Tocqueville Society

Option # 1: Annual Contribution

You can join the Trident United Way Tocqueville Society by making an annual contribution of $10,000 or more.

Option # 2: Step-up Program

Trident United Way offers a unique way to join the Trident United Way Tocqueville Society that affords you membership benefits instantly, while you “step up” your contribution over a three-year period. During that time, you’ll be honored as a member of the Trident United Way Tocqueville Society with full membership benefits. After the three-year commitment, you can continue giving at the full membership level with full benefits.

Steps

Gift

Year 1

$5,000

Year 2

$7,500

Year 3

$10,000

Tocqueville Society Benefits

  • Joining a national network of over 23,000 philanthropic leaders who are engaged locally to create long-lasting, positive changes
  • Engage as a volunteer with other community leaders to work locally to provide long-term solutions to our community’s most pressing issues
  • Join other members at our annual dinner honoring the recipient of the Tocqueville Award, given to an individual or family who demonstrates outstanding volunteer and financial service in our community
  • Naming Opportunities (beginning at the $25,000 giving level)
  • Lead in building strong families and a strong community

Tocqueville Society Cabinet 2025-2026

Jeremy Willits, Chair

Wendy Kopp

Dr. Chip Legerton, III


Tocqueville Legacy Circle

The Tocqueville Legacy Circle is a U.S. based recognition society within the Tocqueville Society recognizing donors who have made legacy or planned gifts or gift intents, in many cases endowing their annual Tocqueville gifts, with a minimum gift level of $250,000 up to $1 Million.


Interested in learning more about Tocqueville Society membership?

We would be honored to create a custom giving schedule that works for you. Contact Piper Hardin, SVP of Individual Philanthropy, at (864) 809-7456 or phardin@tuw.org.