United Way of Central Florida

09/09/2026

09/09/2026

💚 Kindness. Multiplied.

As Publix associates across our community prepare to kick off another United Way campaign, we want to start with two simple words: thank you.

Thank you for the generosity, compassion and commitment you continue to show our community year after year. Together, Publix associates help create opportunities for children, support families and strengthen communities throughout Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties.

Your kindness makes an impact and when we come together, that kindness is multiplied.

Thank you, Publix, for being an incredible partner in building a stronger community. 💚

09/09/2026

You can count on KidCare—every step of the way 💙

From checkups and dental visits to mental health care, Florida KidCare helps kids stay healthy, confident and ready to succeed in school and life.

With free and low-cost options available, and coverage even for working families, getting the care your child needs has never been easier.

👉 Apply today at floridakidcare.org or call 1-888-540-KIDS

09/08/2026

This International Literacy Day, help a child discover the joy of reading.

Becoming a ReadingPal is about more than reading a book together. It’s about showing up, building confidence and helping a young reader develop skills that can make a difference for years to come.

Whether you’re joining ReadingPals for the first time or returning for another school year, we’ll make sure you feel confident before your first session. Our volunteer training covers everything you need to know so you can walk into the classroom ready to encourage, inspire and help a young reader succeed.

💙 Become the reason a child loves reading.
✅ Sign up today and reserve your training at UWCF.org/ReadingPals.

09/07/2026

This Labor Day, we recognize the hard work, dedication and service of the people who help make our community stronger. 💙

United Way of Central Florida offices will be closed Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. We will reopen Tuesday, September 8.

Need help while our offices are closed? 211 is available 24/7.
Dial 2-1-1
Text your ZIP code to 898-211
Email [email protected]

Wishing everyone a safe and happy Labor Day!

09/04/2026

⚡ You brought the spark. Now we’re sharing it!

At our 2026–2027 Campaign Kick-Off, we challenged attendees to Spark the Message by creating a message that could inspire others to give, volunteer and advocate.

The creativity did not disappoint!

🥉 Congratulations to Table 4, whose message took 3rd Place and reminded us what’s possible when we come together.

United Way connects people, resources and opportunities to help build a stronger community—and together, we are the Bolt.

Thank you to everyone who put their creativity to work and helped us kick off this year’s campaign with some incredible ideas.

One Gift. One Volunteer. One Advocate. Can spark lasting change.

09/03/2026

September is Disaster Preparedness Month, a reminder that knowing where to turn for help is an important part of being ready.

Before, during or after a disaster, 211 can connect you with local resources and support, including emergency shelter, food assistance and other essential community services.

Keep 211 information handy as part of your emergency plan:
Call: 211
Text: Your ZIP code to 898-211
Email: [email protected]

Save it. Share it. Make sure your family knows where to turn when help is needed.

09/02/2026

Ask a ReadingPal volunteer why they keep coming back, and you'll hear the same thing again and again—it's about the relationships.

Watching a child gain confidence, celebrate a new word, or proudly finish a book is an experience that stays with you long after the hour is over.

You can make that kind of difference, too.
💙 Join our ReadingPals family at UWCF.org/ReadingPals.

08/31/2026

🎉 Happy Birthday to Brian Norris! 💙

Today we're celebrating Brian Norris of Taylor Oil, a dedicated member of the United Way of Central Florida Board of Directors, past Highlands County Campaign Chair, past Highlands County Advisory Board Chair, and Leadership Giving Association member.

Brian's years of leadership and commitment to serving the tri-county area have helped strengthen our region and inspire others to give back. We are grateful for his generosity, volunteer leadership, and unwavering support of United Way's mission.

Thank you, Brian, for all you do to help create a stronger tri-county area. Wishing you a wonderful birthday and a year filled with happiness and success!

08/28/2026

Healthy habits = healthy minds 💙

Helping kids build strong daily routines can boost their emotional well-being and set them up for success in school and beyond.

Start small with these simple habits:
✅ Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
🥦 Fuel up with healthy foods
⚽ Make time for daily movement

These everyday choices help children manage stress, build resilience and feel their best.

Florida KidCare supports your child’s total wellness with access to physicals, mental health services and more—all through free and low-cost coverage options.

👉 Apply today at floridakidcare.org or call 1-888-540-KIDS