The Una Story

Una is a small community just north of the Spartanburg, South Carolina, city limits.  Una was settled around the 1900's by folks looking to get away from the mill village.  Over the years Una has seen its community image go from "garden spot" to one that brings a grimace to most peoples faces.  This horrible reputation is far from the present day scene in Una.

Stop the Violence began working with the residents of Una in 1996.  At that time there was a core group of about 7 home owners who were tired of the violence, drug dealing, and dilapidated housing that had infiltrated their town.

This core group was the catalyst for the present day changes that can be seen throughout this community.   This core group began by working on the housing conditions in the neighborhood.  After almost a year and over 20 homes renovated the group decided to organize.                                                         

In early 1998 the group decided that they had tolerated prostitution in their community for long enough.  The residents organized a full scale Anti-prostitution campaign with a billboard, marches, and several other published events.  This campaign was successful and saw a local brothel closed down.  Coming off a very successful campaign the residents enjoyed the publicity and power that these events fostered.  However, they were not content just to bask in the glory.

The United Neighborhood Association (UNA) officially adopted by-laws at a formal meeting in May of 1998.  The purpose of this group was to help foster a cleaner, more civic conscious community.  The UNA began with efforts that saw the group destroy and recycle several dilapidated homes that were community crime problems, as well as take a strong political stance against several county housing notices.  

Today the group consist of approximately 50 members who meet monthly to discuss plans and community concerns.  Through this entire process Stop the Violence has learned two great lessons.   FIRST, THE REAL ANSWERS TO NEIGHBORHOOD PROBLEMS COME FROM THE COMMUNITY ITSELF.  SECOND, WHEN NEIGHBORS KNOW EACH OTHER AND WORK TOWARDS BETTERING THEIR COMMUNITY, THE COMMUNITY IS SAFER.