United Way of Central Florida

06/15/2026

We join our community in remembering Tom Burke Brown, who passed away in April at the age of 80.

As President of United Way of Central Florida from 1985 to 1991, Tom helped transform our organization. Through his leadership and partnership with Barney Barnett, the Publix campaign grew from less than $2 million to more than $5 million, and the foundation was laid for what would become one of the most successful United Way partnerships in the world.

Former UWCF President & CEO (1996-2014) Terry Worthington reflected, “Tom influenced my career like no one else. He provided professional opportunities and strongly expected and supported success. Our relationship evolved into a friendship I’ll cherish forever. I love that guy.”

We are grateful for Tom’s leadership, vision, and lasting impact on our organization. His legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the work that continues today.

Photo provided by Terry Worthington from a visit with Tom last year.

06/15/2026

Board Member Spotlight: Ana Wood-Rogers

For more than 20 years, Ana Wood-Rogers has been a dedicated supporter of United Way of Central Florida, strengthening our community through leadership, generosity, and a passion for meaningful impact.

An entrepreneur and management consultant, Ana brings a distinguished career in developing innovative, sustainable solutions. She led the waste and recycling division in Polk County, Florida, for over a decade, helping improve systems that serve residents and protect the environment. Her work has influenced communities on both a national and international level.

Known for her hands-on, forward-thinking approach, Ana is a strong advocate for collaboration and lasting change. As a proud member of our Leadership Giving Association, she continues to lead by example and drive real results for families across Polk County. We’re grateful for her commitment to building a stronger, healthier community for all. 💙

06/11/2026

Thank You, State Attorney’s Office! 💙

A big thank you to our partners at the State Attorney’s Office for being a key part of United Way of Central Florida’s work in our community.

As Mission Advocates, their investment of $100,000–$499,999 in the 2025–2026 campaign is helping create real impact for local families.

We’re grateful for their continued commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Polk County for all.

06/09/2026

Not sure where to turn? Start with 211.

We connect you to trusted local resources for food, housing, healthcare, transportation, legal services, counseling, and more.

📞 Dial 211 today to get connected.

06/08/2026

Happy Birthday, Jennifer Baker! 🎉🎂

Please join us in celebrating Jennifer, a dedicated member of the United Way of Central Florida Board of Directors!

Jennifer serves as Senior Manager, Public Relations & Communications at Watson Clinic LLP, where she has devoted nearly two decades to making an impact. Watson Clinic is one of our valued corporate partners, and Jennifer’s generosity as a UWCF donor reflects that same strong commitment to our community.

We’re honored to have her serving on our board and are grateful for the passion, professionalism, and heart for service she brings to everything she does.

💙 Help us wish Jennifer a fantastic birthday filled with joy, appreciation, and celebration!

06/05/2026

🌎💙 Today is — a reminder that strong communities and a healthy planet go hand in hand.

The places we live, work, and raise our families matter. Clean water, fresh air, and green spaces aren’t just nice extras; they play a role in keeping our neighbors healthy and our community strong.

At United Way, we see how connected it all is. When we take care of our environment, we’re also taking care of each other.

If you’re looking for a simple way to celebrate today:
Pick up a little extra trash
Spend time outdoors
Be mindful of what you use

Small things really do add up. Let’s keep taking care of the place we all call home. 💚

06/05/2026

What an incredible day at the inaugural Hurricane Expo last Saturday! 💙🌪️

More than 900 community members joined us to learn, connect, and prepare for hurricane season. From first-time Floridians navigating their first storm season to longtime residents looking to update their preparedness plans, the event brought together people from every corner of our community.

We saw neighbors asking important questions, emergency management professionals sharing expertise, and vendors connecting with attendees eager for reliable information and resources. The feedback was overwhelming—attendees told us this event was exactly what our community needed.

A huge thank you to our partners, the City of Lakeland, Age Friendly Lakeland, and the RP Funding Center, and to our sponsors whose support made this event possible:

• Home Instead
• American Red Cross
• TECO
• SERVPRO
• Lakeland Electric

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, presented, exhibited, and helped make this first-ever Hurricane Expo such a success. Together, we're building a stronger, more prepared community.

06/04/2026

Congratulations, Katherine Fitzwater! 🎉

We are thrilled to celebrate this exciting next chapter and Katherine's selection as the next President of VISTE.

For years, Katherine has helped strengthen our community through her leadership, passion for service, and commitment to creating meaningful impact. While we're fortunate to have her on the United Way of Central Florida team until she officially begins her new role on August 3, we couldn't be prouder to see her take on this well-deserved opportunity.

Please join us in congratulating Katherine on this exciting announcement. We know she will continue to make a difference for our community in this new role.

💙💚

We’re excited to share a new chapter at VISTE. 💚

After a comprehensive search, Katherine Fitzwater has been selected as VISTE’s next President. Katherine is a dedicated nonprofit leader and community advocate, bringing strong experience in communications, volunteer engagement, and fundraising from her work with United Way of Central Florida.

With deep roots in our community and a passion for serving others, she’s the perfect fit to help lead VISTE forward.

She will officially step into the role on August 3. Please join us in giving Katherine a warm welcome!

06/04/2026

06/04/2026

Still thinking about the incredible moments from our 2026 Annual Celebration! 💙

From honoring inspiring leaders and volunteers to celebrating the impact we’re making across Polk, Hardee, and Highlands counties, it was a day to remember.

A special thank you to NFL Hall of Famer Rondé Barber for serving as our emcee, and to everyone who joined us, supported us, and believes in building a stronger community.

United is the Way.