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UWCF Approves Over $5.1 Million in Community Investment for 2025-26 Across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands Counties

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United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) announces the approval of its 2025-26 Community Investment Team (CIT) allocations, totaling $5,110,353.49 to support critical programs and initiatives across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties. These investments reflect UWCF’s ongoing commitment to improving lives and strengthening communities through strategic funding in key impact areas.

The allocations, recommended by the Community Impact Cabinet and approved by the Board, represent an overall increase of 5.5% in Polk-Hardee and 5.2% in Highlands County compared to last year. Funding will be distributed across four major impact areas:

  • Youth Opportunity
  • Financial Security
  • Healthy Community
  • Community Resiliency

In addition to traditional allocation pools, UWCF continues to advance innovative funding strategies through Stage 2 and Stage 3 initiatives, as well as donor-sponsored grant opportunities. This year, Stage 2 reallocated $4,000 in the Financial Security Impact Area, while Stage 3 funding will enhance programs such as end hunger initiatives and youth opportunity grants through a partnership with the George Jenkins Foundation.

“These investments are a testament to the power of collaboration and the generosity of our community,” said Brian Donnelly, Community Impact Cabinet Chair. “By strategically allocating resources, we ensure that families have access to education, financial stability, health services, and resilience programs that create lasting change.”

The Community Investment process is led by 130 dedicated volunteers who review funding requests and ensure resources are directed where they will have the greatest impact. If you are interested in participating in the Community Investment Team as a volunteer, please contact Christy Apisa at Christy.Apisa@uwcf.org.

The approved allocations will fund 55 programs in Polk and Hardee Counties combined and 14 in Highlands County that address pressing needs, educational support, financial security, and health initiatives, impacting over 180,000 individuals and families across the tri-county region.

 

These allocations represent only one part of the work UWCF does. In addition to funding local programs, UWCF operates internal programs focused on early childhood education and prevention, as well as community resiliency efforts, ensuring families have the tools and support they need to thrive long-term.

For more information about United Way of Central Florida’s impact or to get involved, visit uwcf.org.

Volunteer Florida Foundation Awards $150,000 Grant for Hurricane Milton Long Term Recovery Efforts in Polk County

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GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) and United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) are pleased to announce that the Volunteer Florida Foundation has awarded a $150,000 grant for Hurricane Milton response and recovery efforts. Since October 2024 when the hurricane impacted the central Florida area, GWCF and UWCF have been spearheading efforts to assist residents most affected by the storm. The Volunteer Florida Foundation grant will provide critical funding for the Polk Milton Recovery Committee, which includes representatives from the two organizations, other nonprofits, and local, state, and federal agencies.

“We are grateful to the Volunteer Florida Foundation for supporting our efforts to continue helping families still facing long-term challenges after Hurricane Milton,” said Callie Neslund, GiveWell Community Foundation’s President and CEO. “The Polk Milton Recovery Committee is committed to providing recovery assistance to those dealing with lasting impacts from the storm.”

Two of the organizations that have been working with dozens of Polk County families are Rebuilding Together Greater Florida and Inspiritus. Rebuilding Together Greater Florida helps homeowners affected by hurricanes with free home repairs and renovations. Inspiritus’ focus is on providing long-term recovery assistance for families and individuals with unmet needs following a natural disaster, including managing home repairs and construction.

“One year after Hurricane Milton, too many Polk families are still struggling in unsafe or unstable housing,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “Thanks to Volunteer Florida’s support, the Polk Milton Recovery Committee can continue vital efforts—repairing homes, stabilizing families, and ensuring our most vulnerable neighbors are not left behind long after the storm.”

Polk County residents interested in learning more about applying for assistance may use the following links:

Rebuilding Together Greater Florida 

Inspiritus

 

About GiveWell Community Foundation

GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) works with individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofits to build a stronger community throughout Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties and beyond through charitable funds and competitive grant cycles. Since its founding in 1997, GWCF has awarded more than $400 million in grants. Today, GWCF is home to more than 400 charitable funds and the Impact Polk and Empower grant cycles. To learn more, visit givecf.org or call 863-683-3131. 

About United Way of Central Florida

United Way of Central Florida mobilizes communities to action so all can thrive. We bring people, resources, and ideas together to identify service gaps and co-create solutions that strengthen Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties. Through partnerships with qualified organizations, we advance Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency.

We amplify donor dollars through local matches, convene partners to improve efficiencies, and broker services that deliver the greatest return on investment in areas of critical need. Because we believe no one can do their best if they are hungry, sick, or in pain. To learn more, visit uwcf.org or call 863.648.1500.

Contacts:

Sara Hallett
Communications Manager
GiveWell Community Foundation
shallett@givecf.org  |  863-683-3131

Katherine Fitzwater
Director of Public Relations & Social Media
United Way of Central Florida
Katherine.Fitzwater@uwcf.org  |  863-648-1500 x 243

GiveWell Community Foundation and United Way of Central Florida launch United Community Indicators Dashboard

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GiveWell Community Foundation (GWCF) and United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) are excited to launch the United Community Indicators Dashboard, an online interactive tool that provides snapshots of key metrics that focus on community needs. The dashboard (ucindicators.org) is the second phase of the joint GWCF/UWCF United Community Needs Assessment (UCNA) project, which measured community needs in the tri-county area of Hardee, Highlands, and Polk counties in central Florida.

“We are proud to offer this valuable resource to our community,” said Callie Neslund, GiveWell Community Foundation’s President and CEO. “The data available on the dashboard benefits nonprofit organizations, governments, educators, and community members as we focus on our most pressing needs, and track trends and outcomes.”

In addition to UWCF and GWCF, the UCNA process involved community leaders throughout the tri-county area, as well as residents who completed the surveys and participated in focus groups. As a result, six priority domains were identified: economy & employment, education, food security, housing, quality of life, and transportation & infrastructure. The dashboard provides data about these domains for each of the three counties.

“The United Community Indicators project gives our community a shared foundation for action,” said Christina Criser Jackson, United Way of Central Florida’s President and CEO. “With clear, accessible data, we can continue to align efforts to meet the most urgent needs across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties.”

Contacts:

Sara Hallett
Communications Manager
GiveWell Community Foundation
shallett@givecf.org  |  863-683-3131

 

Katherine Fitzwater
Director of Public Relations & Social Media
United Way of Central Florida
Katherine.Fitzwater@uwcf.org  |  863-648-1500 x 243

$220,000 Awarded to 12 Local Agencies Supporting Polk County Students

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United Way of Central Florida is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 George Jenkins Foundation Youth Opportunity Grant, awarding a total of $220,000 to 12 nonprofit agencies serving students in Polk County. This year, 29 agencies submitted proposals requesting over $526,800 in funding, reflecting the community’s deep commitment to youth development and educational equity.

The Youth Opportunity Grant supports programs that serve Title I schools in high-need zip codes across Polk County, with a focus on reducing absenteeism, improving academic outcomes, and fostering emotional and behavioral growth among students in grades K–8.

The following programs have been selected for funding:

  • Achievement Academy, Inc. – IMPACT ELEVATED
    Supporting Pre-K and Kindergarten students with disabilities through individualized transition services and parent engagement.
  • Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay – Comprehensive Group Mentoring
    Providing group mentorship to disadvantaged youth in partnership with local schools and universities.
  • Boys and Girls Club Polk County – Building a Bridge through Daily Attendance
    Addressing chronic absenteeism through academic support, mentoring, and wraparound services.
  • Camp Fire Sunshine – Science Rocks
    Enhancing science literacy for K–5 students through hands-on, interdisciplinary learning.
  • The Freedom Tour – The Show Up Squad
    Incentivizing regular attendance with monthly rewards and semester-long goals.
  • Heartland for Children – Soaring Eagles
    Offering after-school reading tutoring and behavioral support for 3rd and 4th graders.
  • Learning Resource Center of Polk County – Ready Set Read! (RSR!)
    Delivering one-on-one reading intervention for struggling first-grade students.
  • Mi Escuela Montessori – Project CONNECT
    A bilingual program focused on emotional regulation, family engagement, and reducing suspensions.
  • Pace Center for Girls Polk – Bartow Middle School Reach Program
    Providing mental health services to at-risk adolescent girls.
  • Polk Education Foundation – The Renaissance Program
    Celebrating student success in academics, behavior, and attendance through school-wide events.
  • RCMA Mulberry Community Academy – Ready, Set, Grow!
    Combining academic intervention with enrichment for high-need students.
  • Youth and Family Advocates – SNAP Program
    Training educators in behavioral strategies to help children develop self-regulation skills.

“These grants are a direct investment in the future of our community,” said Rod Crowley, Chief Operating Officer of United Way of Central Florida. “Each of these programs is uniquely positioned to make a measurable impact on the lives of students and families in Polk County. We’re proud to support their efforts to build a stronger, more resilient community.”

United Way of Central Florida serves Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties by strengthening community resilience and advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security—working toward a future where every person in Central Florida can reach their full potential.

State of Florida Appropriation Supports Hunger Relief in Hardee and Highlands Counties Through UWCF

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United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) is proud to announce a significant state appropriation for the 2025–2026 fiscal year to support hunger relief and wellness initiatives in Hardee and Highlands counties. This funding will directly address food insecurity, improve health outcomes, and empower individuals and families living below the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold.

The initiative, titled “Thrive Together: End Hunger & Wellness Navigation,” will deploy Community Wellness Navigators, provide healthy food distributions and offer critical resources to underserved rural communities. With a total of $250,000 in nonrecurring state funds, the program will allow UWCF to expand its reach to underserved individuals, providing fresh produce, frozen meats, and shelf-stable goods to families in need.

This vital support was made possible through the advocacy and collaboration of local legislators. In February, United Way of Central Florida staff and board members met with lawmakers in Tallahassee to share the urgent needs of Central Florida communities and highlight critical funding gaps. Special thanks go to Senate President Ben Albritton and Senator Colleen Burton, and Representatives Jon Albert, Jennifer Canady, Jennifer Kincart Jonsson, Josie Tomkow, and Kaylee Tuck for championing this initiative and warmly welcoming our team during legislative visits.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our state leaders,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “This funding will not only provide food but also connect families to healthcare, education, housing, and other essential services that help them thrive.”

The program will be implemented in partnership with local organizations. These partners will help distribute food and provide on-the-ground support to ensure the success of the initiative.

United Way of Central Florida serves Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties by strengthening community resilience and advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security—working toward a future where every person in Central Florida can reach their full potential.

John Doran accepts award on behalf of Publix

Publix Super Markets’ Recognized as a United Way Leading Corporate Partner, President’s Circle Award Winner

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United Way of Central Florida Launches Read-A-Thon to Celebrate 30 Years of Success By 6

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United Way of Central Florida is proud to announce a community-wide read-a-thon in celebration of the 30th anniversary of its Success By 6 program, which was founded in 1995 by Carol Jenkins Barnett to ensure every child enters kindergarten ready to learn and thrive. Participants can register for the event, which will run from June 1 – June 30, at uwcf.org/successby6.

“Success By 6 has been a cornerstone of our work to support children and families,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “This read-a-thon is a joyful way to celebrate our past and invest in our future.”

Proceeds from this event will benefit Success By 6 programs, which are aimed at supporting early childhood development through literacy programs, caregiver resources, and access to essential learning tools.

How It Works:

  1. Set a Goal – Parents can register their children online and set a goal for how many books they will read in the month of June, as well as a fundraising goal.
  2. Spread the Word – Participants can share their fundraising pages with friends and family and ask for their support through pledges per book read or flat donations.
  3. Read, Read, Read! – Participants can track their reading progress online and earn entries into exciting prize drawings.
  4. Complete the Challenge – Participants will log their final book counts to fulfill pledges.
  5. Win Cool Prizes – Every participant will be entered to win prizes, with additional entries for every book read!

Prizes Include*:

  • One of three book bundles.
  • One of five Ziggle bikes.
  • Two tickets to Zoo Tampa.
  • Four tickets to the Florida Children’s Museum at Bonnet Springs Park.
  • Four tickets to the Crayola Experience.
  • Two tickets to an Orlando Magic game.

Special Bonuses**:

  • The first 100 registrants receive a free pizza courtesy of Little Caesars
  • The first 500 registrants receive a free Tadpole Mini Treat from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice

To register and learn more, visit uwcf.org/successby6.

*No purchase necessary. All participants will receive one entry upon registration and an additional entry for every book read. Each participant is eligible to win only one grand prize.  Winners will be randomly selected on 07/03/2025.

**Redeemable at select locations.

United Way of Central Florida Announces New George Jenkins Foundation Youth Opportunity Grant

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United Way of Central Florida is pleased to announce the George Jenkins Foundation Youth Opportunity Grant to support educational programming benefiting Polk County Public Schools students. This initiative seeks to create equitable opportunities for youth by addressing the root causes of child maltreatment and promoting positive outcomes for students in communities facing high-risk social determinants of health. 

This grant opportunity is especially critical as many Title I schools in Polk County serve students who are disproportionately affected by food insecurity, lack of access to mental and behavioral health services, and limited educational resources. These conditions contribute to chronic absenteeism, academic underperformance, and behavioral challenges, which can place students at higher risk for long-term negative outcomes. By supporting high-impact educational programming, this grant aims to intervene early, reduce disparities, and foster environments where students can thrive. 

The George Jenkins Foundation Youth Opportunity Grant will supply organizations with up to $20,000 to implement innovative and inclusive educational programs that increase public access and engagement for students in Title I schools within Polk County, FL. This is a unique and meaningful opportunity for organizations to directly affect student success while partnering with schools and community stakeholders. 

Programs may be conducted on or off campus and must demonstrate alignment with the following guidelines: 

  • Preference will be given to programs serving Kindergarten through 8th grade students within Title I schools. 
  • Priority will be given to proposals that demonstrate measurable impact in areas such as reduced absenteeism and truancy, improved student behavior, decreased suspensions, enhanced self-regulation, use of de-escalation strategies, and improved academic outcomes. 
  • A letter of support from the participating school(s) is required. 
  • All grant funds must be fully expended by May 28, 2026, the end of the 2025–2026 Polk County Public Schools academic year. 

Application Deadline: Close of Business on Friday, May 16, 2025
Notification of Awards: Monday, July 7, 2025, via email 

This funding opportunity is made possible through the generosity of the George Jenkins Foundation and supports United Way of Central Florida’s mission to inspire our community to give, advocate, and volunteer by identifying needs and mobilizing vetted resources to create positive, local change.

To apply, please visit https://forms.office.com/r/huQZ8UqutG.
Questions? Please email Rod Crowley, Rod.Crowley@uwcf.org.  

UWCF Recognizes the Vital Community Hotline on National 211 Day

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Today, February 11th (2/11), marks National 211 Day-an annual observance celebrating the vital 24/7, three-digit (2-1-1) resource that connects millions of people in the U.S. and Canada with critical community services. This includes residents in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties. For over 40 years, 211 has served as a lifeline, connecting individuals to resources and services available in their local communities.

In the past year, 211 has fielded over 45,000 calls in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, with housing and shelter requests being the most common need.

211 is a key resource for individuals and families in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties who need assistance with disaster response, food, healthcare, mental health support, insurance, stable housing, utility payments, veteran services, childcare, and other essential needs.

Key facts about 211 include:

  • Available 24/7, free, and confidential, accessible in 99% of U.S. communities
  • Offered in over 180 languages

Specialists offer empathetic, non-judgmental support and connect individuals to a broad range of resources to meet not just the immediate need but also any underlying issues that may be present.

“211 is a critical service that connects individuals to resources across a wide range of issues,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “On 211 Day, we aim to raise awareness of this essential resource and celebrate the lifeline it provides to thousands of Central Floridians.”

Established in 2000 by the Federal Communications Commission, 211 was designated as the three-digit number to connect people to health, human, and social services. Today, it remains a trusted resource for individuals seeking help and hope in their communities.

While 211 operates year-round, it is particularly vital during times of disaster, such as hurricanes, flooding, and wildfires, helping to spread accurate, vetted information and ensuring that 911 is reserved for physical emergencies.

On National 211 Day, United Way of Central Florida encourages residents in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties to:

  • Call, text, or chat 211 if they or someone they know needs help
  • Share 211 with neighbors, family, and friends to connect others to support
  • Advocate to local policymakers for the importance of and need to strengthen 211 services

Our Mission

To inspire our community to give, advocate and volunteer by identifying needs and mobilizing vetted resources to create positive, local change.

Our Vision

To unite our community and empower everyone to achieve their full potential.

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863.648.1500

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Lakeland, FL 33812

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