November Newsletter

At the breakfast, we proudly unveiled United Way’s refreshed brand, including our new tagline: United is the Way! This update reflects our strengthened commitment to tackling challenges in youth opportunity, healthy community, financial security, and community resiliency.

We’re especially honored that United Way’s global brand highlights our reef revitalization work here in Monroe County as part of its community resiliency pillar.

Additionally, we remain dedicated to supporting ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) individuals—those who work tirelessly to make ends meet but often face difficult financial decisions.

Carole Peters (United Way NEXT) and

Tiffani Mensch (UWCK President & CEO)

Keynote speaker Carole Peters, with United Way NEXT, reminded us of the importance of giving, advocating, and volunteering. She invited everyone to reflect on how local nonprofits provide vital support during life’s toughest moments.

It was a powerful reminder of the difference we can make when we come together as a community.

We also launched

volunteeruwck.org,

a new hub for volunteer opportunities in Collier County.

Join as a volunteer or sign up your agency and post volunteer opportunities today!

As Giving Tuesday approaches on December 3rd, there’s an incredible opportunity to double your impact. Thanks to a generous $100,000 matching pledge from Mrs. Ellen Vanderburg, every donation to UWCK's Disaster Resiliency Fund will be matched dollar for dollar—allowing us to do even more for the people and causes that need it most.

Thank you for standing with United Way. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient community and a brighter future for all.

Download event pictures

Click here to watch UWCK Community Impact Breakfast coverage on NBC2!

Click here to read about UWCK's Volunteer Center in Florida Weekly!

Making Headlines

Andy Griffiths' Retirement Party Raises $70k for United Way

$100k Donation Match

UWCK Marine Science Grants Announced (subscription only)

VITA Volunteers Needed (subscription only)

In the Community

College of the Florida Keys

Community Day

Visiting the Shelter for Abused

Women and Children

Grace Place visit and diaper donation

New Hope Ministries disaster distribution

UWCK visits David Lawrence Centers 

Celebrating Sugarloaf School's fifth year as an Ocean Guardian School

Announcements

2024-2025 Marine Science Education

Grant Recipients

16 schools and organizations will receive a total of $35,264, benefiting approximately 6,465 students with hands-on learning experiences focused on marine science and conservation.

Congratulations to:

• Basilica School
• CFK Academy
• Coral Shores High School
• Diving Museum
• Gerald Adams Elementary

• Key West Preschool Co-op
• MarineLab
• Mote Marine Lab
• Ocean Studies Charter School
• Poinciana Elementary

• REEF
• Reef Relief
• Reef Renewal
• Seacamp
• Sigsbee Charter School (K-8^th)
• Sugarloaf School

Save the Date!

United Way of Collier and the Keys is excited to announce that our FY25-26 Community Investment Grant application cycle opens December 4th! In this new grant cycle, we’re focusing on four priority areas that drive positive change: Healthy Communities, Youth Opportunities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency.

Stay tuned for details on how to apply.

It's Time to Update the Florida Keys Community Resource Guide!

If your agency is currently listed, please click here to review your information.

For updates or to request inclusion in the guide, email Norma Rodriguez at norma.rodriguez@uwcollierkeys.org.

Volunteer with VITA in Monroe & Collier Counties!

UWCK is looking for volunteers to join our VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program as reviewers, greeters, preparers, or site coordinators.

For Monroe County, email: VITA@uwcollierkeys.org

For Collier County, email: Carolina.Heiser@uwcollierkeys.org

Click here to learn more and make a difference today!

Join Women United!

Be part of a powerful network of women creating lasting change in our community. Together, we inspire, educate, and take action to help everyone thrive.

Click here to become a member!