The Polk County Board of County Commissioners (BoCC) is dedicated to serving the residents of Polk County. A big part of that commitment is supporting community organizations like United Way of Central Florida (UWCF), which provides critical services that help make our community stronger. As a result of their unwavering dedication, the Polk County BoCC has earned the distinction of being a Top Supporter of United Way of Central Florida!
Each year, a different division leads the fundraising campaign efforts. For the 2024 campaign, the IT Department stepped up to the challenge, and we couldn’t have been more excited to work alongside them. David Palmer, Director of the IT Department, and Mae Goding, a member of the IT Division, were key figures in this year’s campaign, inspiring the entire organization to get involved with payroll deductions and special event planning.
Streamlining the Campaign: A Digital First Approach
To keep things running smoothly and ensure all divisions were aligned, David and Mae implemented an innovative strategy: they created a Microsoft Teams Channel that included division campaign coordinators and their UWCF Campaign Manager for campaign coordination. This virtual space became a hub for sharing event flyers, posting important dates, facilitating open communication, and hosting weekly calls. It was a game-changer for collaboration, enabling the team to stay connected and organized throughout the campaign period.
Fun + Impact = Success
Of course, while the logistics were crucial, Polk County BoCC also made sure that fun was a central part of the campaign. Each division hosted its own chili cook-off, where employees purchased tickets to taste and vote for their favorite chili. The division winner went on to compete in the final cook-off at the Campaign Celebration: Saddles & Circuits Rodeo, a highlight of the campaign.
Other creative events included a car show, a boiled peanuts fundraiser, and an international food day — all of which not only raised funds but also helped build stronger connections among coworkers. These unique events perfectly captured the spirit of teamwork and community that make the Polk County BoCC’s approach so impactful.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
Polk County BoCC’s fundraising campaign is a stellar example of how creative thinking, collaboration, and a little fun can go a long way in making a positive impact. If you’re interested in bringing similar ideas to your workplace to support United Way of Central Florida, reach out to your UWCF Campaign Manager today. Let’s make great things happen, together!
https://uwcf.org/find-help/
