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Celebrating 30 Years of Literacy: Success By 6 Read-a-Thon Wrap-Up

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From June 1 to June 30, 2025, United Way of Central Florida (UWCF) proudly celebrated the 30th anniversary of Success By 6 with a month-long Read-a-Thon. This joyful event honored three decades of promoting early childhood literacy and development.

Throughout the month, children across Central Florida immersed themselves in stories, building both their reading skills and imaginations. A total of 3,960 books were logged by participants, highlighting the community’s strong commitment to literacy and learning.

UWCF was thrilled to welcome more than 550 young readers and their families to this year’s Read-a-Thon. Many parents shared that they had not previously heard of UWCF’s programs, making the event a valuable opportunity to introduce new families to the resources and support available.

The Read-a-Thon is more than just a summer activity—it supports UWCF’s mission to ensure every child enters school ready to succeed. Research shows that children who read regularly during the summer are better prepared for the academic year. By encouraging consistent reading habits, UWCF is helping to close the literacy gap and support long-term educational success.

Success By 6, founded in 1995 by Carol Jenkins Barnett—then director of Publix Super Markets Charities—is a community-wide initiative led by United Way of Central Florida. Its mission is to ensure that all children in Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties enter school mentally, physically, socially, and emotionally prepared to succeed. The program brings together resources from businesses, government, faith-based organizations, educators, and health services to prioritize early childhood development. Through initiatives like ReadingPals, Born Learning, and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, Success By 6 has become a cornerstone in building a strong foundation for young children in Central Florida.

Thank You

We extend our heartfelt thanks to every child, parent, and caregiver who contributed to the success of our first Read-a-Thon. Your participation helps UWCF continue the vital work of Success By 6, now in its 30th year.

Here’s to three decades of building brighter beginnings—and to many more stories to come.

United Way and AdventHealth Launch Partnership to Combat Hunger in Lake Placid

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On Thursday, June 26, United Way of Central Florida proudly joined forces with AdventHealth to celebrate a powerful new partnership aimed at addressing food insecurity in Highlands County. Volunteers from AdventHealth came out in full force to support the kickoff event in Lake Placid, where hundreds of families received nutritious food through the United Way of Central Florida End Hunger Initiative.

This initiative is part of United Way’s ongoing commitment to creating a more resilient community across Highlands, Hardee, and Polk counties. By partnering with AdventHealth, United Way is expanding its reach and deepening its impact, ensuring that more families have access to the healthy food they need to thrive.

This milestone reflects the strength of community partnerships and the shared dedication to creating lasting change in Highlands County.

“We are incredibly grateful to AdventHealth for their commitment to our mission,” said Shawn Beumel, Director of Highlands County for United Way of Central Florida. “Together, we are not only feeding families, we are building a healthier, more resilient Heartland.”

The Lake Placid event marked the second collaboration between United Way and AdventHealth, following the launch of their first site in Avon Park in April. These food distributions will continue to take place at:

South Oak Church
125 S. Oak Ave., Lake Placid
Every second and fourth Thursday at 9:00 a.m.

To find a food distribution near you, click here.

Ashley Bell Barnett Appointed to Women United Global Leadership Council

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We are thrilled to announce that Ashley Bell Barnett, Past Board Chair of United Way of Central Florida (UWCF), has been appointed to the Women United Global Leadership Council (WUGLC).

Ashley has long been a passionate advocate for the communities of Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, dedicating her time and energy to uplifting individuals and families across the region. Her unwavering commitment to service and leadership continues to inspire all of us.

The WUGLC represents members working with United Way in communities worldwide. New members, including Ashley, were selected through a rigorous nominations process by the Council for their experience, dedication to Women United, and proven investment in United Way’s mission.

The Council serves as both a strategic advisory body to United Way Worldwide and a key mobilizer of leaders who support initiatives that strengthen families—such as access to quality, affordable, and educational childcare. Representing a network of over 50,000 members, the Council also plays a vital role in expanding the reach and impact of Women United globally.

Here in Central Florida, we are proud to have over 600 Women United members across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, all working together to create lasting change in our communities. To get involved locally, email WU@uwcf.org or click here to learn more.

This new role is a testament to Ashley’s vision, compassion, and tireless work in advancing the mission of Women United. We are proud to see her recognized for the incredible impact she makes every day.

Thank you, Ashley, for all you do to support United Way and the communities we serve!

Read more about the announcement here.

Building Resilience: A Community United for Hurricane Preparedness

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In a powerful display of community collaboration and resilience, Rebuilding Together Greater Florida (RTGF), in partnership with United Way of Central Florida (UWCF), hosted a hurricane kit packing event and press conference at the United Way of Central Florida headquarters in Lakeland. 

Community leaders and volunteers, including a dedicated team from Westlake Epoxy, came together to assemble 150 hurricane preparedness kits for vulnerable Central Florida residents. These kits are a vital resource as Florida enters another hurricane season—especially for families still recovering from the devastating impact of the 2024 hurricane season. 

During the event, Volunteer Florida CEO Josie Tamayo surprised United Way of Central Florida CEO Christina Criser Jackson with the Excellence in Volunteering Award, a prestigious statewide recognition celebrating UWCF’s exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to serving the community in times of crisis.  

“This award is a testament to the power of partnership and the spirit of service that defines Central Florida,” said Christina Criser Jackson, President & CEO of United Way of Central Florida. “We are proud to stand together today with our partners from Rebuilding Together Greater Florida, GiveWell Community Foundation, and the broader community to support disaster relief and recovery in our community.” 

The press conference emphasized the importance of long-term disaster recovery and the collaborative efforts driving it forward. $100,000 in funding from the United Community Relief Fund (UCRF) was awarded to RTGF to support critical home repairs for up to 14 homes impacted by Hurricane Milton in Lakeland. 

In the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, UWCF coordinated a massive relief effort across Polk County, including 738 pallets of water (over 55,000 cases), 502 pallets of MREs (over 24,000 cases), 2.1 million meals distributed, 5,250 tarps provided, and nearly 2,000 disaster-related calls and texts answered through 211. These efforts have now transitioned from emergency response to long-term recovery, thanks to new funding and continued community support. 

Lakeland City Commissioner Guy Lalonde also took the stage to commend RTGF and UWCF for their incredible partnership with the City of Lakeland. He also recognized the city’s new Emergency Management Director, reinforcing the city’s commitment to preparedness and resilience. 

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.

Outstanding United Way Volunteer Cindy Price

Remembering Cindy Price: A Legacy of Leadership and Service

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It is with profound sadness that we recognize the passing of Cindy Price, a remarkable volunteer, donor, and community leader whose impact will be felt for generations across Central Florida. Cindy’s life was defined by her unwavering dedication to the community she loved. A proud Auburndale native, she poured her time, energy, and heart into […]

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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.  

Celebrating Children’s Day at the Capitol: A Magical Day of Learning, Advocacy, and Connection

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Each year, Children’s Day at the Capitol brings together thousands of young minds, passionate advocates, and community leaders in a collective effort to celebrate, educate, and inspire. This year, approximately 3,000 children filled the halls of the Florida Capitol, turning the space into a vibrant hub of creativity and possibility. Among them was United Way of Central Florida’s ReadingPals Manager, Ruthie Teets, who played a pivotal role in creating memorable experiences for the children who attended.

Representing United Way of Central Florida’s ReadingPals Program and The Children’s Movement of Florida, Ruthie spent the day in the beloved Storybook Village, a magical space where stories came to life through interactive reading, hands-on activities, and imaginative play. At United Way’s booth, children delighted in hearing The Animal Boogie, a lively tale that got them moving, dancing, and singing along. They then chose their favorite jungle animal mask to create, allowing them to step into the world of storytelling in a playful and engaging way.

This year’s Storybook Village was the biggest and most enchanting yet—a place where timeless tales came to life through play, costumed characters, and immersive reading stages that sparked imagination at every turn. The energy and excitement throughout the day served as a powerful reminder of why early childhood education, literacy, and advocacy matter so much.

Beyond the Storybook Village, Ruthie explored the Capitol Rotunda, where children from across the state worked together to create the breathtaking Celebration of the Hands, a larger-than-life artistic display that serves as a daily reminder to legislators, advocates, and visitors that the future of Florida’s children rests in their hands.

The day was packed with meaningful moments—from youth performances that uplifted the crowd to engaging booths filled with resources and interactive experiences. The event offered something for everyone, with early learning tools for young children, health and wellness resources for families, and countless ways to engage and connect with partners across the state.

At United Way of Central Florida, we are proud to be part of this movement—to champion literacy, support early learning initiatives, and ensure children across our community have the tools to succeed. Events like Children’s Day at the Capitol reinforce the importance of working together to create a brighter future, one book, one story, and one inspired child at a time.

The future is in our hands—let’s continue to lift up, educate, and empower the next generation!

 

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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