United Way of Central Florida 2018 Annual Meeting
United Way of Central Florida Raises $9.8 Million for Campaign and Irma Relief
More than seven months after kicking off United Way of Central Florida’s 2017 campaign, Paul and Lynn Noris, Campaign Co-Chairs, reminded the crowd of nearly 300 donors, volunteers and supporters at United Way of Central Florida’s annual meeting that the past year was a difficult one. But not even Hurricane Irma could deter our community from Living United.
“Paul and Lynn have done an amazing job during this past year,” said Jennifer Kincart Jonsson, United Way of Central Florida 2017 Board Chair. “Their leadership has truly raised this organization to new heights.”
The 2016 campaign was the best campaign ever by the organization, raising more than $9.2 million. But that was until now.
“We would like to personally thank each of, the over 20,000 donors, for your commitment to United Way of Central Florida,” Paul Noris said. “Lynn and I are proud to announce that we’ve had ANOTHER record-breaking year, raising $9,371,971!”
To start the event, United Way of Central Florida’s President and CEO, Alan H. Turner II, announced that the community also came together to support those affected by Hurricane Irma.
“UWCF staff continued to work and assist those in need, directly case managing more than 150 families affected by Irma, all while raising $461,707 for the hurricane relief efforts,” Turner said.
The top volunteer awards were presented by Turner and Jonsson. The 2017 Citizen of the Year went to Michael Tamney for his years of service to the organization.
The George W. Jenkins Volunteer of the Year Award goes to a UWCF board member or former board member who has gone above and beyond. This year, it was presented to Polk County Tax Collector, Joe G. Tedder.
This year’s Philanthropist of the Year goes to a man whose generosity knows no bounds, Alan Jay Wildstein, Alan Jay Automotive Network.
“United Way of Central Florida wouldn’t be what it is today without such engaged leaders in the community,” Turner said. “I feel like tonight’s winners are an excellent representation of the kind of people we have here in Central Florida who fight to make a positive impact.”
Saddle Creek Logistics Services received the Spirit of Central Florida Award for their employees’ work that surpassed all expectations and exemplifies the giving spirit of this community.
For their contributions and support, some of the top companies were recognized.
2017 Best New Campaign Award winner – AgAmerica Lending
Summit Award – Small Company – Boring Business Services
Summit Award – Medium Company – Polk County Tax Collector’s Office
Summit Award – Large Company – Polk County Sheriff’s Office
Recognized for their efforts, a select group of Outstanding Employee Coordinators (ECs) were honored:
Outstanding Coordinator for a small company: Bruce Hall with Metalcoat, Inc. of Florida.
Outstanding Coordinator for a medium company: Nancy Dodd with Duke Energy.
Outstanding Coordinator for a large organization: Donna Sheehan and Cameron Stevens with The City of Winter Haven.
Outstanding Coordinator for a Partner Agency: Ashley Miller with VISTE.
The 2017 Employee Coordinator of the Year was awarded to Tori Pazda with DSM Technology Consultants, Inc.
The South Florida Avenue Cup, that started as a little friendly competition between Clark, Campbell, Lancaster & Munson and Allen & Company, has turned into a serious – but still cordial rivalry. This year it was awarded to Allen & Company for bringing in a total of $54,965.
Our inaugural Build United food drive was launched this February when 13 teams stepped up to a unique challenge. These teams were asked to not just collect food, but to turn what they collected into a creative sculpture. Our teams collected a total of 5,608 items of food and made some amazing structures. The winner for The Golden Can Award is New Beginnings High School.
“Thank you for your support and dedication throughout our journey as campaign chairs,” Paul Noris said. “We are grateful for all the hard work that everyone has put into the campaign and helping us with another record-breaking year. United, We All Win.”
