December 2023 Newsletter

Thank You for a Successful

Giving Tuesday!

With your support, UWCK was able to raise $5,795.00!


You can watch our story on ABC7, featuring some of our partner agencies, right here.


It's never too late to help local families this holiday season. You can assist by clicking on the donate button.

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UWCK Updates

Marine Science Education Grant Recipients at Work

United Way of Collier and the Keys has recently granted a total of $41,729 to 17 deserving recipients. Among the beneficiaries, Seacamp stands out, utilizing the funds to provide specialized training for students on the use of cutting-edge water quality sensing equipment.

Website Changes


In our commitment to be UNITED,

keysunitedway.org will cease operations on December 10.

Rest assured, the vital keyshelp.org page will remain fully functional.

For all our services and information, please visit our official website:

uwcollierkeys.org.


VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) Volunteers Needed!


UWCK's VITA program is in need of volunteers, specifically in Monroe County. If you are in Key West or Marathon, and interested in volunteering, please contact Loretta Geotis at 305-563-1470.

You can also email [email protected].

United Way of Florida Capitol Days

2024 Session


UWCK's President & CEO, Tiffani Mensch, journeyed to Tallahassee to participate in United Way of Florida's Capitol Days. During her visit, she engaged in meaningful discussions with Representative Lauren Melo and connected with Senator Kathleen Passidomo's dedicated aides.


Another notable highlight was the insightful conversation about the "benefits cliff." This occurs when career progression places a family above the income eligibility threshold for public assistance, resulting in the family being in a worse financial position despite the wage increase. The Florida Chamber of Commerce revealed that one-third of workers forego job opportunities or pay raises due to the risk of losing crucial benefits. A significant portion of these individuals are considered ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). For further information and valuable resources, head here.


Principal for a Day!


UWCK CEO Tiffani Mensch became "Principal for a Day" at Corkscrew Middle School. You can watch the video here.


A New Chapter in Community Development:

The Renaissance Hall at Old Course


Written by Ashley Jones,

UWCK Vice President of Community Impact


In a significant stride towards addressing workforce housing needs, Collier County leaders hosted a dedication ceremony at the former Golden Gate Golf Course.


Click to read.

Save the Date!

Experience the excitement of the season with UWCK by joining us for these end-of-year events!


December 14: Kendra Scott Gives Back

December 30: 2023 Fireworks & Glow Party

Ending with a Client Success Story

Before

After

In Collier County, a client faced significant damage to her home from the floodwaters of Hurricane Ian, with no homeowner's or flood insurance to cover the costs.


This home, a cherished legacy from her father, held immense sentimental value, making the devastation particularly profound. Uncertain about restoring her dwelling to a safe and livable state, the client endured displacement for over a year. Initially, she found refuge in a hotel, later transitioning to living with family, as the challenging circumstances persisted.


The client's living situation remained unresolved until the intervention of Disaster Case Management. Thanks to this support, the client is now poised to return to her home, just in time for Christmas.


Overwhelmed with gratitude, she expressed being at a loss for words, emphasizing her profound appreciation for everyone involved in reclaiming her home.

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