The spirit of Highlands County shone bright during the 2025 United Way of Central Florida Highlands County Campaign Kick-Off, hosted at the beautiful home of Alan Jay Wildstein. The evening brought together community leaders, generous donors, and dedicated volunteers—all united by a shared goal: creating a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Highlands County Director Shawn Beumel welcomed guests with heartfelt appreciation for their unwavering support. “Your leadership, generosity, and passion for making a difference inspire us all,” he shared. “Together, we’re expanding opportunities for youth, helping families achieve financial security, increasing access to healthcare, and standing beside our neighbors in times of crisis.”
Beumel recognized the dedicated Highlands County Advisory Board members, United Way of Central Florida Board members, elected officials, and partner agencies in attendance—underscoring the powerful role of collective action in building a brighter future.
Campaign Chair Brian Norris highlighted the outstanding generosity of United Way’s Top Supporters, each contributing $15,000 or more in the 2024 campaign. Publix Super Markets and Publix Super Markets Charities, the School Board of Highlands County, Heartland National Bank, Alan Jay Automotive, AdventHealth, Budget Insurance, and Duke Energy were honored for their significant investments.
Norris also celebrated the Alexis de Tocqueville and Démocratie members, including Alan Jay Wildstein, Shawn Martz, and Ashley Bishop, whose extraordinary gifts are transforming lives.
Another highlight of the evening was the recognition of Women United, a rapidly growing network of women leaders who raised more than $7,000 through their “Purses with a Purpose” fundraiser, contributed $32,000 in new donor dollars, and volunteered over 1,200 hours in service to Highlands County.
The celebration culminated with the presentation of the 2024 Campaign Awards, honoring those who exemplify the United Way spirit:
- Employee Coordinator of the Year: Addlyn Teague, HCA Florida Highlands Hospital – recognized for her creativity and leadership in mobilizing staff, raising funds, and inspiring her community.
- Volunteer of the Year: Andy Kalus – honored for his generosity in providing critical resources, including storage and transportation for food distribution efforts.
- SPIRIT of Highlands County Award: AdventHealth Sebring – acknowledged for funding United Way’s End Hunger Initiative and volunteering with compassion and dedication.
- Highlands County Citizen of the Year: Amberlee Rogers – celebrated for her life-changing work as a trauma-informed practitioner, nonprofit co-founder, and tireless advocate for children and families.
United Way of Central Florida President & CEO, Christina Criser Jackson, closed the evening with a powerful reminder of the work still ahead. She shared sobering statistics: 53% of households in Highlands County fall below the ALICE Threshold—families who are working yet struggling to afford basic needs.
“These are our teachers, first responders, and frontline workers,” Jackson said. “They are the backbone of our community, and our mission has never been more critical.”
With a 2025 campaign goal of $541,398 for Highlands County, United Way is committed to expanding services that provide access to education, financial stability, and healthcare for all.
The evening ended with the unveiling of a new Highlands County video showcasing the transformative impact of United Way programs and partnerships.
From donors and volunteers to corporate partners and community leaders, the message of the night was clear: United is the Way to a thriving Highlands County.
