The Year in Review
Campaign Kicks Off In September 2007, business and community leaders gathered during an Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce Trustees luncheon to kick off United Way’s annual campaign. Calling on others for support, Campaign Chair Kathleen Waltz characterized United Way as a cherished asset that’s vital to the community’s health and vitality. United Way Days Of Caring Also in September, more than 1,500 volunteers rolled up their sleeves and donated 8,000-plus hours during the single largest volunteer event in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Once again, Lockheed Martin led the charge with more than 700 employees who worked in 30 teams to spruce up Quest’s Camp Thunderbird for disabled children and adults. In all, more than 44 local nonprofit agencies benefitted from volunteer assistance. Leadership Event For the 10th year in a row, SeaWorld Orlando partnered with Heart of Florida United Way to thank and recognize more than 2,000 Leadership Club members who generously donated $1,000 or more last year. Donors were honored with a recognition breakfast and a complimentary day in the park with their families.
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16th Annual Chef’s Gala It was a record-breaking year for Chef ’s Gala, United Way’s single largest fundraising event. More than 1,300 guests – the first ever sell-out crowd – turned out on April 5th at Epcot® World Showplace Pavilion. With tremendous support from longtime event host and sponsor WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort, as well as delectable food from 24 of the region’s top chefs, the gala raised more than $208,000, a new record, to help fund United Way partner agencies. 2007-08 Campaign Victory Celebrating the third consecutive year of campaign growth, the April victory event was emceed by WKMG Local 6 anchors Lauren Rowe and Bob Frier who kept the festivities fun and lively. Hundreds attended the luncheon, which celebrated the campaign’s $17,757,000 success and honored more than 450 local companies that participated. Community Leader Forums Nearly 400 Central Floridians representing all segments of the community attended Community Leader Forums in May and June to preview new research, provide feedback and learn more about United Way’s new strategic direction, Investing in Results. Four forums were held throughout Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. Public opinion gathered during the events helped complete United Way’s 2008 Tri-County Needs Assessment, which identified citizens’ top community concerns.