MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Greetings!

Third grade is a special turning point in a child’s education - the moment when students begin moving from learning to read to reading to learn. Strong reading skills at this stage give children more than academic tools; they nurture confidence, curiosity, and a belief in what is possible.

Now entering its 14th year, our highly successful United Way of the Big Bend Reading Pals program helps children reach this milestone by giving them someone who believes in them, mentors them, and coaches them. That support begins years before third-grade reading assessments. Through consistent, caring, one-on-one guidance, volunteers help young students expand their vocabulary, improve comprehension, strengthen literacy skills, and discover the joy of reading. Just as importantly, each child gains a trusted adult who listens, encourages them, and celebrates every step forward.

Our United Way of the Big Bend Math Pals program is an equally important part of the equation. Early confidence in math helps children see themselves as capable problem-solvers and supports success in science, technology, and everyday life. With patience, encouragement, and individualized practice, Math Pals can make numbers less intimidating, learning more engaging, and essential concepts easier to master.

Together, Reading Pals and Math Pals care for the whole child and create pathways to a brighter future. I warmly invite you to join us—as a volunteer, advocate, partner, or supporter. When we give children the tools, encouragement, and caring relationships they need today, we help them grow with confidence—and build a stronger future for our entire community.

With gratitude,

WOMEN UNITED HOSTS WOMEN'S LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST KICK-OFF

Our kickoff brought guests together to discover the power of Women United and get an exciting preview of this year’s Women’s Leadership Breakfast featuring Sheinelle Jones! Guests explored sponsorship opportunities and learned how proceeds help United Way of the Big Bend support our ALICE neighbors - individuals and families who work hard but still struggle to make ends meet.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped build the excitement! We can’t wait to see you in November for an inspiring morning of connection and community impact.

Missed the kickoff? There’s still time to be part of something meaningful! Click the button below to explore sponsorship opportunities and help make a difference for local families.

PAST BOARD CHAIRS, CAMPAIGN CHAIRS, AND POWER 5 REUNITE FOR BREAKFAST CELEBRATION

This past week, we welcomed Past Board Chairs, Past Campaign Chairs, and Power5 members for a meaningful breakfast gathering to reconnect, celebrate their enduring impact, and honor the leadership and dedication that have helped shape United Way of the Big Bend.

It was an honor to welcome everyone back to where things began at our office and learn more about their efforts to continue incorporating the United Way values into their everyday lives by raising awareness, mobilizing resources and finding collaborative, targeted solutions for our community’s most vital concerns.

Thank you for your contributions to our past and present success. We sincerely appreciate your continued support.

READ UNITED RETURNS OCTOBER 19TH-23RD

Bring a book to life. Spark a love of reading!

Join ReadUNITED, October 19–23, and help make story time unforgettable for local students! Volunteers will visit a local classroom for a 30-minute reading session, sharing their love of books - and their best character voices.

Each participating classroom will receive a bundle of books to help build its classroom library, keeping the joy of reading going long after your visit.

Signups are open today! Reserve your reading slot, warm up those character voices, and join the fun!

 An inspiring voice. A powerful purpose. A morning you won’t want to miss!

Join us for the 2026 Women’s Leadership Breakfast featuring Sheinelle Jones, award-winning journalist, author, and co-host of Today with Jenna & Sheinelle.

Connect with others who share your passion for community and help turn inspiration into meaningful support for our ALICE neighbors.

Sponsorships are now available! Be part of this exciting event—click below or contact Caylie Atkins at caylie@uwbb.org to learn more.

UWBB TO CO-HOST TRUNK OR TREAT EVENT ON OCTOBER 17TH

Calling All Ghosts and Goblins—Join Us for Trunk or Treat Fun!

Join United Way of the Big Bend, Leon County Government, the Children's Services Council of Leon County, and United Partners for Human Services for another spooky Trunk or Treat event at Old West Florida Enrichment Center on October 17th!

The event will take place between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and costumes are encouraged!

JOIN OUR TEAM! NOW HIRING - VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & OPERATIONS

Are you ready to join a dynamic, fast-paced, and caring environment that combines your skill in accounting, finance, and operations with your genuine passion for creating a positive impact in the Big Bend?

United Way of the Big Bend is seeking well-qualified candidates to apply for our Vice President of Finance & Operations position. In this role, you'll manage the day-to-day finance and operations responsibilities of United Way of the Big Bend, along with helping further our mission to improve the Big Bend for all of our neighbors daily.

If this role sounds like the right fit for you, click the button below to learn more about the position and how to apply!

HELP LOCAL STUDENTS BUILD CONFIDENCE

SMALL MOMENTS. BIG POSSIBILITIES. VOLUNTEER LOCALLY!

A story shared. A math problem solved. A moment when “I can’t” becomes “I did it!” As a volunteer, you can help create those breakthroughs for local student - and give them a reason to look forward to learning.

Through ReadingPals and MathPals, friendly, patient volunteers help Big Bend students build confidence, strengthen essential skills, and experience the pride of making progress.

ReadingPals: Share a story. Spark confidence.

Spend one hour a week with a young reader who needs extra support. Read together, sound out words, and enjoy games that strengthen reading skills. No teaching experience is needed - just a love of children and a little patience!

MathPals: Make numbers click!

Meet with a student for one hour each week to explore math concepts, practice basic skills, and tackle problems together. Your encouragement can help a child feel more capable and ready to take on the next challenge.

VITA: Help neighbors make the most of tax season.

Prefer to support local individuals and families? Our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program provides IRS training to prepare volunteers to help neighbors file their annual tax returns.

Your time can make a meaningful difference right here in our community. Click the “learn more” buttons below to find your opportunity and get started!

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