For Immediate Release
Contact: Stephen Prestesater
Director of Marketing
United Way of West Florida
Phone: 850-444-7042
Email: Stephen.prestesater@uwwf.org
UNITED WAY OF WEST FLORIDA ANNOUNCES MINI GRANT AWARDS TO EMPOWER LOCAL NONPROFITS
Pensacola, Fla. – December 4, 2023
The United Way of West Florida is proud to announce the approval of Mini Grant awards for 12 deserving local nonprofits, each receiving up to $5,000, for a total amount of $49,172.00. These one-time grants have been approved by the United Way of West Florida Board of Directors through the Community Investment process, demonstrating a commitment to fortifying the regional nonprofit landscape.
“The Mini Grant programs marks an exciting new chapter for United Way of West Florida,” remarked President/CEO Laura Gilliam. “This funding opportunity is a testament to our dedication to supporting Escambia and Santa Rosa County nonprofits in their quest to bolster their organizations and better serve our communities.”
Gilliam emphasized, “We’re particularly keen on reaching grassroots agencies. Those working tirelessly in marginalized communities, often in hard-to-reach areas with limited resources, hold immense potential to effect positive change. These grants aim to empower such organizations, enabling them to expand their impact and reach.”
The grants serve as a vehicle for these agencies to build capacity, offering a streamlined approach that bypasses the traditional community investment process. By providing this financial boost, United Way of West Florida aims to foster growth and innovation among nonprofits, ultimately leading to enhanced support for those in need.
The Mini Grants are a result of the organization’s newly adopted strategic plan, specifically related to highlighting United Way of West Florida’s commitment to nurturing and strengthening the nonprofit ecosystem, all the while ensuring that these organizations have the resources needed to flourish and continue making a profound difference in the community.
Grant Recipients: Project: Counties Served: Total:
Set Free Refuge Capacity Building Both $5,000.00
Sisters of Hope Capacity Building Both $5,000.00
Equity Project Alliance Training Both $5,000.00
NWFL Community Outreach Program/ Project Escambia $5,000.00
Sisters Anointed to Lead Together Program/ Project Escambia $5,000.00
Junior League of Pensacola Capacity Building Both $4,972.00
The Global Corner Capacity Building Both $4,500.00
Sportsmen Givin’ Back Program/ Project Both $4,000.00
GFWC Santa Rosa Woman’s Club Accounting Serv. Both $1,000.00
Family Promise of ESC Operating Exp. Both $5,000.00
Therapeutic Riding Unlimited Program/Project Both $4,700.00
For more information about the Mini Grant recipients and the United Way of West Florida’s initiatives, please visit www.uwwf.org/community-investment-process or contact Mary Zaledonis, Director of Community Impact at mary.zaledonis@uwwf.org.
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For media or press inquiries, email Stephen.prestesater@uwwf.org.To stay informed about what’s happening with United Way of West Florida, sign up for our newsletter at www.uwwf.org/signup, or follow us on social media @UWWFL.
United Way of West Florida (UWWF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every citizen in our community. UWWF has operated locally for 99 years with a vision of a community United to create better opportunities for all. By investing in programs, participating in partnerships, and leveraging resources, UWWF works to meet a mission of Uniting our community to improve lives.
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Contact: Stephen Prestesater
Director of Marketing & Interim Director of Development
United Way of West Florida
Phone: 850-444-7042
Email: Stephen.prestesater@uwwf.org
Pensacola, Fla. – November 21, 2023
United Way of West Florida proudly celebrated the opening of its new headquarters on Thursday, November 16th, 2023, symbolizing a significant step in the organization’s mission to unite and serve the communities of Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. This achievement coincides with the anticipation of United Way of West Florida’s upcoming 100th anniversary.
The new headquarters, strategically located to enhance accessibility and engagement, symbolizes United Way of West Florida's commitment to uniting and supporting communities across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. As the organization prepares to commemorate its 100th year of service, this new facility stands as a testament to its enduring dedication to creating a lasting impact in the region. In attendance for this evening were the Greater Pensacola Chamber of Commerce, Santa Rosa County Chamber of Commerce, Gulf Coast Minority Chamber of Commerce, Navarre Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, the Gulf Breeze Chamber of Commerce, Cat Country 98.7, United Way of West Florida Board Members, sponsors, local non-profits, and community members.
Laura Gilliam, President/ CEO of United Way of West Florida, expressed her enthusiasm for this significant development, stating, "The opening of our new headquarters is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines our work. We are thrilled to have a centralized hub from which we can continue our mission of empowering individuals and improving lives. As we approach our 100th anniversary, we are inspired by the decades of impact and energized to shape an even brighter future for our communities."
The upcoming 100th anniversary represents a remarkable milestone for United Way of West Florida, highlighting a century of service, partnership, and resilience. The organization looks forward to commemorating this achievement by renewing its commitment to addressing the most pressing needs in the region and empowering individuals to reach their full potential. United Way of West Florida would like to thank our sponsors for their support, as well as The Lewis Bear Company, and the Seville Quarter Wine & Gift Shop.
For more information on United Way of West Florida and its initiatives, please visit www.uwwf.org.
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For media or press inquiries, email Stephen.prestesater@uwwf.org.
To stay informed about what’s happening with United Way of West Florida, sign up for our newsletter at www.uwwf.org/signup, or follow us on social media @UWWFL. Media Gallery and photos available at Open House 100th | United Way of West Florida (uwwf.org)
United Way of West Florida (UWWF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every citizen in our community. UWWF has operated locally for 99 years with a vision of a community United to create better opportunities for all. By investing in programs, participating in partnerships, and leveraging resources, UWWF works to meet a mission of Uniting our community to improve lives.
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Photos from event
