FY24 Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024

GREETINGS FROM OUR LEADERSHIP United Way of the Coastal Empire was built for this community by this community in 1938. Over the years, the leaders of this organization built a foundation that has strengthened our community. Today, it continues to be an essential part of the social services infrastructure we invest in to support each other and this place we love year after year.

By far, the most impactful resource driving sustainable, lasting change across our community is the United Way Community Fund. When you give to United Way, you are directly contributing to the Community Fund, which fuels Kimberly Waller & Ken Rabitsch strategic investments in programs and services that address our region’s most pressing needs. Last year, it supported 83 programs across 55 area nonprofit organizations, ensuring hot meals for seniors, safety for survivors of abuse, quality after-school and summer programs for children, job training for parents, housing stability, and so much more. By giving to the Community Fund, donors help build a foundation of resilience and opportunity for everyone in our community.

The Community Fund also directly supports United Way’s direct impact work, like our 211 Information and Referral Service and County Service Centers, which connect individuals and families to critical resources. It funds initiatives that fill gaps in available services, including Read United programs, Backpack Buddies, and others, ensuring support reaches those who need it most. Additionally, the Community Fund underpins our volunteer infrastructure, mobilizing hundreds of volunteers across our region to meet essential community needs and create meaningful, lasting change.

This year marked an exciting new chapter as I stepped into the role of President and CEO at United Way of the Coastal Empire. As we move forward together, our mission remains to improve lives by providing a safety net for the most vulnerable and create pathways for upward mobility so everyone can thrive. With the support of our Board of Directors, volunteers, and generous supporters we’re ready to make an even greater impact as our region continues to grow and evolve.

We deeply appreciate your investment in this mission. Together, we will meet the challenges of our time and ensure brighter, more promising futures for everyone across the Coastal Empire.

Kimberly Waller, President & CEO United Way of the Coastal Empire

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Ken Rabitsch, 2023-2024 United Way Board Chair Synovus

Serving Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, & Liberty counties In August 2024, United Way of the Coastal Empire announced its expansion into Long County, officially extending its service area to five counties.

TABLE OF CONTENTS About us

4-5

Why We Improve Lives

6

How We Improve Lives

7-21

1. Support Nonprofit Programs

8

2. Provide Direct Assistance to People

12

3. Connect Volunteers to Causes

21

What Makes it Possible to Improve Lives

22-29

Volunteer Leadership

30-31

Alexis de Tocqueville Society

32-33

Beacon Society

34-39

Media Partners

40

Legacy Giving

40

Financial Report

40 3

ABOUT US

MISSION United Way of the Coastal Empire improves lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community.

VISION We are united by a vision of the community in which all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential and families thrive.

UNITED WE IMPROVE LIVES At United Way of the Coastal Empire, we raise money and build awareness yearround to support the Community Fund, which allows us to: Support nonprofit programs Provide direct assistance to people Connect volunteers to causes that strengthen our community

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ABOUT US

STRATEGIC PLAN Our strategic plan, approved in March 2021, laid the foundation for our year-round fundraising and communications strategies and affirmed our commitment to a dual focus: providing a safety net for the most vulnerable and pathways for upward mobility so everyone can thrive.

This plan is not merely a document – it’s a dynamic guide. The strategic plan committee and our dedicated staff are actively working to advance each priority of the plan. As we reach this midcycle milestone, we’re taking stock of our progress, gathering insights, and preparing to update our approach in 2025 to ensure that we remain on track to meet our goals by 2028.

Though there is much still to do, we are making steady, meaningful progress and forging partnerships to advance our four bold goals.

Quality, Affordable Childcare Financial Skills for Success Ready & Resilient Workforce Safe & Stable Housing

INCLUSIVITY STATEMENT Since 2020, our Race, Equity, and Opportunity Committee has been dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout our organization. Their work culminated in the development of an official inclusivity statement, which was approved by our Board of Directors in 2023. This statement reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and guides our ongoing efforts to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion is embedded in everything we do.

Inclusivity Statement: United Way of the Coastal Empire recognizes that its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, exemplified in the collective action of its staff, its volunteers, and its partners, is an essential ingredient in fulfilling its mission to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to create a society in which all people have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

We will be a leader in advocating for our community to be one where everyone has the resources, opportunities, and support they need to live fully.

Learn more about our commitment uwce.org/dei/ 5

WHY WE IMPROVE LIVES To increase community and state-wide understanding of those we serve, we partnered with United Ways of Georgia Association to become the 29th state to join United for ALICE.

ALICE STANDS FOR ASSET LIMITED, INCOME CONSTRAINED, AND EMPLOYED ALICE is an impact framework that delivers the data we need to better understand those in our region who are working hard but still living paycheck to paycheck, and are just one health crisis or major car repair away from catastrophe. Many people on whom our society relies everyday are identified as ALICE. They earn more than the Federal Poverty Level but not enough to make a modest household budget work. This ALICE partnership will turn data into action and reshape the dialogue on financial hardship.

The work of United Way of the Coastal Empire and our nonprofit partners is more important than ever as our region continues to grow. Our partnership with United for ALICE strengthens our ability to make a meaningful impact with our funding and volunteer efforts. There are great opportunities ahead, and together with our partners and donors, we can rise to meet it and create lasting change in our community.

IN OUR REGION:

44% fall below the ALICE Threshold

More than 59,000 people are food insecure

31% households

considered ALICE

13% households below the Federal Poverty Level

(United for ALICE, 2022)

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(Feeding America, 2022)

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES THE UNITED WAY COMMUNITY FUND The Community Fund is the backbone of support for the Coastal Empire, fueling local nonprofits, providing direct assistance, and connecting volunteers to strengthen our community.

We achieve our mission in many ways, but most significantly we do it through this fund.

WHO & HOW WE SERVE United Way of the Coastal Empire serves the four-county region of Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties in Georgia.

Our organization focuses on addressing local needs by investing in Quality, Affordable Childcare, Financial Skills for Success, a Ready & Resilient Workforce and Safe & Stable Housing —key areas that build strong families and communities. We partner with nonprofit agencies to support programs that help children, families, and individuals in these areas.

Through the United Way Community Fund we do three critical things.

1. We support nonprofit programs in providing vital social services that deliver impact. This year, we invested in 83 programs across 55 nonprofits, helping to provide vital services like food access, childcare, financial literacy, job training, housing stability, and mental health care. These programs create meaningful change in our community.

2. We provide direct assistance through our County Service Centers and our 211 Information and Referral service. This year alone, we connected over 11,000 callers to essential resources. When services weren’t available, we stepped in, using our 211 and managed funds to help approximately 2,000 families with transportation, housing, and more.

3. We connect volunteers to causes that strengthen our community.

This year, volunteer participation grew by 17%, contributing over $660,000 of estimated value in service hours and in-kind donations to support food drives, diaper donations, and other critical services.

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

For current funded nonprofit partners visit: uwce.org/funded-nonprofits

01. SUPPORT NONPROFIT PROGRAMS We strategically invest in local nonprofit programs to address our community’s most pressing needs.

Funding decisions are made through a competitive application process. With the help of dedicated Community Investment Volunteers, United Way ensures that Community Fund dollars go to nonprofit organizations that make the most significant impact.

NONPROFITS WITH FUNDED PROGRAMS

* July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024

Abilities Unlimited Atlantic Area Court Appointed Special Advocates Bethesda Academy Brightside Child and Family Advocacy Center-Savannah CASA Chatham-Savannah Authority for the Homeless Child Advocacy Services SEGA Coastal Children’s Advocacy Center Coastal Coalition for Children Coastal Georgia Council, Boy Scouts of America Consumer Credit Counseling Service of the Savannah Area Deep Center Elevate Savannah Emmaus House EmployAbility Faith Equestrian Therapeutic Center Family Promise of the Coastal Empire Forsyth Farmers’ Market Frank Callen Boys & Girls Club Georgia Legal Services Program Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia Goodwill of Southeast Georgia Greenbriar Children’s Center Hodge Memorial Day Care Center Hospice Savannah Inspiritus J. C. Lewis Primary Health Care Center Kicklighter Academy Liberty County Manna House Living Independence for Everyone Loop It Up Mary Lou Fraser Foundation for Families Mary’s Place of the Coastal Empire MedBank The Mediation Center of the Coastal Empire 8

Together, we invested in: 83 health and human service programs across 55 nonprofit partners

Park Place Outreach Performance Initiatives Recovery Place Royce Learning Center SAFE Shelter The Salvation Army Savannah Corps Savannah Center for Blind and Low Vision Savannah Country Day School Savannah Speech and Hearing Center Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia Senior Citizens, Inc. Social Apostolate of Savannah Step Up Savannah Think Big Youth Organization Two Rivers Health Clinic Union Mission Wesley Community Centers of Savannah Xcel Strategies YMCA of Coastal Georgia

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

THE IMPACT OF OUR INVESTMENTS We measure over 300 outcomes through United Way of the Coastal Empire funded nonprofit programs. Here are just a few examples of the impact made possible by your support:

$858,985

1,256

of debt was repaid through funded programs to improve financial security

households avoided eviction and foreclosure due to essential support from funded programs

1,134

600

children & youth showed improved academic performance through summer education programs

individuals completed job training programs, equipping them with essential skills

12 million+

12,522

pounds of free or low-cost food were distributed to agencies and feeding programs

people with chronic diseases or health conditions saw improvements in clinical outcomes with help from healthcare initiatives

Brightside Child & Family Advocacy Center – Savannah CASA Program* A father was ordered to have supervised visitation because he had no relationship with his child previously. Dad had overcome substance abuse and had never parented a child before. He didn’t have any positive parenting role models. Bright House staff provided parental coaching before and after every visitation. Their support gave Dad the confidence he needed to be comfortable with his son and advocate within the court system. Within six months, he was awarded unsupervised visitation and three months later, he was awarded custody. Upon exiting services with Bright House, Dad completed the exit survey and stated that Bright House staff “were the only people who believed in me.” The child welfare system is very complicated and difficult for families to navigate. At Bright House, he was given the support and guidance to navigate his case plan and gain custody of his son. *Program funded by United Way of the Coastal Empire

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

THE IMPACT OF YOUR DONATION 10

uwce.org/impact

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

CAPACITY BUILDING FOR NONPROFIT PARTNERS Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) Nonprofit Leadership Symposium United Way joined with many dedicated nonprofit leaders of color to design a program specifically for BIPOC executives.

This nonprofit and career development program offers free training on topics such as sustainability strategies, marketing, public relations, board and staff relationships, and more.

BIPOC Graduation

Community Investment Volunteers

Jumpstart

Our robust grant-making process is supported by comprehensive volunteer training to ensure that Community Fund dollars are going to nonprofit organizations that will make the greatest impact. Community Investment Volunteers are trained to review funding requests, visit local nonprofits, analyze program outcomes, and make funding recommendations to United Way’s Board of Directors.

The Jumpstart program is driving impactful change by equipping nonprofits with the tools to better engage their communities, diversify revenue, and sustain their programs. As graduates of the BIPOC Nonprofit Leadership Symposium, a $10,000 investment was given to Elevate Savannah and the DeLoach Lupus Foundation. The program is already showing impressive results. Elevate Savannah has experienced a 30% increase in overall fundraising, with their latest event surpassing expectations by raising 40% more than the previous year. Salathiel DeLoach of the DeLoach Lupus Foundation described the program as “life-changing,” highlighting its impact on engagement with the community.

Gulfstream Learning Series Through the generous sponsorship of Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, the Gulfstream Learning Series offers free virtual lunch-hour sessions designed to support nonprofit leaders at any level. These workshops feature trainers from the Georgia Center for Nonprofits and cover a variety of critical topics such as board governance, social media best practices, effective HR strategies, grant writing, digital fundraising, and finance basics. This past year, 134 unique attendees participated in eight sessions, gaining valuable insights to strengthen their organizations.

Young Leaders Board Readiness Program The Board Readiness Program leads select members of United Way Young Leaders through a series of training sessions to prepare them for nonprofit board service.

Graduates are connected with local nonprofits seeking board members.

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

02. PROVIDE DIRECT ASSISTANCE TO PEOPLE 211 INFORMATION & REFERRAL SERVICE Our 211 Information and Referral Service ensures community residents in need of support know where to turn for the help they need. United Way 211 Specialists are trained to identify and address the underlying root causes of a client’s problem – and connect them with a wide range of available resources that meet their needs. 211 connects clients with resources for food, healthcare, housing and utility assistance, employment services, veteran services, childcare, counseling, disaster assistance, and more.

This year alone, our team answered more than 11,000 calls where they were able to refer our clients to partner agencies, matching them with the resources that best fit their needs. Where there were gaps, our 211 and managed funds were used to support individuals with transportation, housing, and more.

ADDRESSING CRITICAL NEEDS American Rescue Plan - ARPA In partnership with the City of Savannah, Social Apostolate, and Housing Authority of Savannah, United Way of the Coastal Empire collaborated with local nonprofits to provide rental assistance and case management to individuals and families at risk of displacement in the City of Savannah. The funding also assisted residents and Public Housing clients with security deposit and utility deposit assistance.

The fund allowed United Way’s 211 Information and Referral Service to meet the needs of Savannah residents suffering hardship due to a loss of income or living below the federal poverty line.

The fund has assisted 768 individuals in 413 households 12

Top Needs: Housing (4,820) Utilities (2,539) Individual & Family Support (716) Transportation (372) Food (268) *July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024

United Way Direct Services Team on 211 Day with Savannah Mayor Van Johnson

Rental Housing Assistance Fund - RHAF The Savannah Affordable Housing Fund, Community Housing Services Agency, and United Way of the Coastal Empire have joined forces to support Savannah renters.

Together, we are helping residents secure the rental, security, and utility deposits needed to move into housing, while also providing short-term assistance to prevent eviction or utility disconnections for those at risk. This includes support to help individuals rent a home or avoid eviction and utility interruptions.

The initiative has assisted 454 individuals in 183 households

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADDRESSING CRITICAL NEEDS (CONT.) Mobile Food Pantries In partnership with Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia and Bryan County Family Connection, United Way of the Coastal Empire operates a bi-monthly mobile food pantry, serving families across our region. This collaboration ensures that vital food resources reach those in need, wherever they are.

About 400 households served bi-monthly

Car Care Clinics Owner of S&P Automotive Specialists, Victor Gaylord, launched quarterly car care clinics to empower community members with essential vehicle maintenance skills. The inaugural clinic had 5 participants, helping them stay on the road and maintain employment. Additionally, Victor offers car repairs to our clients at cost plus a modest 10% to cover staff wages.

Medical Lending Library We provide used medical equipment to those who cannot afford to purchase it, offering essential support to those in need.

Medical Lending Library helped 16 individuals/ 11 families, distributing $1,335 in equivalent cost of equipment in the local market Ride United Transportation Access We are committed to ensuring everyone has access to safe, reliable, and easily accessible transportation, as we recognize that inadequate transportation can be a major barrier to upward mobility. By providing roundtrip Lyft passes to residents of Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties, we are empowering individuals to secure employment, access medical care, obtain healthy food, transport their children to childcare facilities, and meet other essential everyday and emergency needs. We have delivered 225 rides during the current period.

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADDRESSING CRITICAL NEEDS (CONT.) Backpack Buddies The Backpack Buddies program in Liberty County ensures that food-insecure students receive four meals to take home each weekend, providing essential support to help them thrive outside of school.

Distributed $38,525 in Liberty County, including $23,162 to assist 280 students at 14 schools and $15,363 through LMFRF Backpack Buddies to support 125 individuals

Backpacks with school supplies Backpacks of Love In collaboration with New Beginnings Church and Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia, this program delivers weekly backpacks of food to Bryan County Public School students who qualify for free or reduced lunch. This initiative ensures that these students have enough to eat over the weekend, supporting their well-being outside of school.

61,296 meals served in 2023

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This program provides essential school supplies to children during back-to-school events in Bryan County, ensuring they start the year prepared and confident. By giving out these backpacks, we not only set students up for success but also help ease the financial burden on families.

543 backpacks distributed at back-to-school events in July/ August 2023

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADDRESSING CRITICAL NEEDS (CONT.) Landings Military Relief Family Fund

Churches United

Administered by United Way, this fund offers rapid financial support to military families during emergencies. It addresses needs that often fall outside standard military resources, including emergency financial crises, food vouchers, therapeutic devices, transportation, and more.

In a unique collaboration between United Way and local churches in Effingham County, this initiative combines resources to support housing, utilities, food, transportation, and other critical needs for vulnerable community members. United Way handles intake and application processing, while participating churches provide financial assistance based on need and available resources. The program ensures that those in need receive timely and appropriate support.

Assisted 51 families and 161 individuals with essential needs Provided $93,854 in emergency relief Delivered $11,138 in financial support for military administration Offered food assistance to 51 families and 167 individuals, totaling $3,350 in aid

Financial Assistance helped 36 individuals/10 families, distributing $6,064 Emergency Caring Closets distributed $10,960 at 11 schools

Supported 24 families and 88 individuals with $500 in gas assistance

Canady’s Coat Drive This year, we proudly continued our partnership with Canady’s Heating & Air for their third annual coat drive, ensuring warmth for children in need across our region during the winter months.

Approximately 600 coats were distributed to benefit children in need ages infant to 17 years old.

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADVANCING UPWARD MOBILITY Our programs are designed to empower citizens by fostering literacy, building generational wealth through stable housing, and removing transportation barriers to employment and essential services.

These initiatives create pathways for upward mobility while addressing gaps and enhancing capacity in key areas that complement our agency’s investments. One transformative initiative is Read United.

Read United Read United is a year-round series of programs dedicated to improving early language and literacy for all children in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties. This initiative directly helps us advance one of our four bold goals, Ready and Resilient Workforce by nurturing the next generation of workers and leaders.

Read United Day The flagship event of the Read United program, Read United Day, takes place annually in Bryan, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties. On this day, United Way volunteers visit classrooms to read to students and distribute books to every pre-K through 2nd grader in the region. In 2024, nearly 1,000 volunteers participated, giving away almost 20,000 free books across 60 schools. This initiative addresses the lack of books in many lower-income households, making a significant impact on early literacy.

991

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19,386

Classrooms

Students

135 - Bryan 444 - Chatham 210 - Effingham 202 - Liberty

2,691 - Bryan 9,155 - Chatham 3,747 - Effingham 3,793 - Liberty

Largest Single Day Volunteer Project in the Coastal Empire

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADVANCING UPWARD MOBILITY (CONT.)

Read United Buddies In partnership with The Rotary Club of Savannah and the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System, the Read United Buddies program pairs second-graders with volunteers for one-on-one reading sessions. Volunteers commit to 30-minute sessions twice a week throughout the school year, providing crucial support to help students read at grade level.

During year one, 100% of participating students improved their reading skills and 70% advanced one or more reading levels.

Bryan County 417

Summer Reading Bryan, Effingham, and Liberty counties enhance summer food programs by incorporating summer reading initiatives alongside distributing meals.

United Way reads to and provides books to children, promoting literacy and learning Liberty County during the summer months.

1,246

Summer Reading

2,030

Total Students

Effigham County 367

Deal Center’s Language as a Missing Link & Missed Opportunity In 2022, United Way, one of only two organizations in the state, received the Language as a Missing Link and Missed Opportunity Champion Award. This initiative includes a series of professional development and strategic planning sessions in Chatham County, aimed at practitioners, educators, nonprofits, and policymakers. The focus is on deploying a toolkit to improve language and literacy from birth to age 8 and developing a comprehensive community implementation plan across various support systems.

In 2024, United Way of the Coastal Empire continued to champion language and literacy development, receiving a new award from the Deal Center: the 2024 Community Coalition Grant. In partnership with community organizations - including Coastal Georgia Indicators Coalition, Savannah Technical College, Loop It Up, YMCA, Live Oak Public Libraries, and other community partners - we remain committed to fostering early language development for children from birth through age 8.

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADVANCING UPWARD MOBILITY (CONT.) Housing Heroes In collaboration with the City of Savannah Housing and Neighborhood Services Department and Housing Savannah, Inc., we proudly launched the Housing Heroes pilot program. This initiative aims to provide minor home repairs for senior citizens and individuals with limited incomes within city limits. By leveraging United Way Volunteers, Housing Heroes enhances the city’s existing home repair program, increasing the number of homes serviced each year. This effort not only preserves generational assets for low-income families but also helps maintain the current housing stock, supporting the broader goal of preserving affordable housing in our community. Through this partnership, we advance one of our core goals: Safe & Stable Housing, making a meaningful impact on the lives of more residents.

131 housing heroes volunteers completed minor home repairs and maintenance for 12 homeowners with $60,000 in estimated savings for low-income families

Junior Achievement Colonial Group Discovery Center United Way of the Coastal Empire proudly supports the Junior Achievement Discovery Center in Savannah by providing a dedicated storefront where students can explore the values of philanthropy and volunteering. The center offers a dynamic simulation of adult life, teaching essential business and finance skills.

Specializing in high-impact programs, the JA Discovery Center enhances financial literacy and career readiness, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit and preparing students for success in a global economy. This partnership aligns with our Strategic Plan Bold Goal to advance Financial Skills for Success.

In the last year, the center served 13,000 students from 44 schools and seven counties

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless Collaborative Application Program* Having served many years in the United States Army, I never imagined I would find myself in need of support from programs like the Cove at Dundee Veteran’s Tiny House project and the team of people at Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless. I wasn’t in stable housing- I didn’t have a roof of my own, a place to feel safe- a place to call home.” – Mr. Reggie, former Cove resident and now homeowner.

Around 18 months ago, Mr. Reggie, a veteran of the armed forces, was experiencing homelessness.

Our street outreach team connected with him, and he was entered into the Homeless Management Information System. He identified that he wanted access to housing opportunities, so he filled out a housing application for the Continuum of Care (CoC) and was entered into the Coordinated Entry system. Because of his veteran status, he quickly accessed housing at the Cove at Dundee (a tiny home community for veterans exiting homelessness). After moving into the Cove, Mr. Reggie was asked to be a resident manager to offer peer support to the other residents at the Cove because of his infectious spirit and willingness to engage in supportive services. His home was a testament to how much ownership he had taken of his life as it was the most decorated home in the community.

As Mr. Reggie healed from his own trauma of experiencing homelessness and regained benefits owed to him, he articulated to his case manager that he wanted to move towards the dream of owning his own. With the support of CSAH’s housing team, his case manager at the Cove, and My Veteran’s place, Mr. Reggie made his dream a reality. On February 9th of this year, Mr. Reggie closed on his home. About his journey, Mr. Reggie said, “The truth is, it took a lot of hard work to get to where I am today. There were bumps in the road, but that’s true for every journey I’ve ever taken. I refused to give up on my dream- I kept working and thanks to incredible programs of CSAH and the CoC - I was never alone. *Program funded by United Way of the Coastal Empire

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HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

ADVANCING UPWARD MOBILITY (CONT.) Women United Transportation Fund The Women United Transportation Fund provides gas cards, bus passes, minor car repairs, and more to help increase access to reliable transportation so that people in the Coastal Empire can get to work, school, medical appointments, training opportunities, and other critical resources. This fund is fueled by the Women Who Rule event and campaign.

Need for Assistance 37% Health 24% Education 22% Employment 17% Other (Benefits, Shelter, Food, Legal, Safety)

60% Gas Card 19% Ride Share 14% Bus 4% Car Repair

Assistance Provided 600+ Times

3% Other (Greyhound, Bicycle, Registration, etc.)

Kristen moved to Georgia in 2020 after being stationed at Fort Stewart. At 28, she was young, fit, and healthy, so finding a lump in her breast was a shock. The diagnosis of breast cancer soon followed, and she began treatment. After surgery and 16 rounds of chemo, her doctors informed her that she would also need additional treatment in Savannah, GA. The daily commute from Hinesville to Savannah for 25-30 days was going to be costly, and Kristen was unsure how she would manage the expense.

Her nurse navigator then told her about the Women United Transportation Fund (WUTF) and assisted her with the application process. Within two days, Kristen was approved for $200 in gas cards. This support allowed her to focus on her treatments without the added stress of transportation costs.

Reflecting on the assistance, Kristen said, “It was like a burden fell off my shoulders”

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In FY 23-24, Community Partners received $54,000 in mini-grants, with the remaining $24,000 allocated to United Way Direct Services. Allocations may be expended over multiple fiscal years.

See upcoming volunteer projects! Visit: uwce.org/volunteer-projects

HOW WE IMPROVE LIVES

03. CONNECT VOLUNTEERS TO CAUSES Volunteers are at the heart of United Way’s community projects and initiatives.

Their contributions are essential not only to the success of these programs but also to United Way’s overall mission. Volunteers participate in initiatives like Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, United Way Day of Action, and Read United Day, as well as many other community projects. In addition to hands-on service, more than 250 dedicated leadership volunteers serve on more than a dozen advisory boards and committees, providing expertise in fundraising, marketing, and grant decisions. Their combined efforts play a crucial role in strengthening our community and advancing United Way’s mission.

This fiscal year (FY24), volunteer engagement reached new heights, with over 5,000 individuals contributing—a 17% increase from last year.

Volunteers also dedicated nearly 500 hours to each project, —a 37% increase—bringing the total reported volunteer hours to over 20,000. Their dedication and impact continue to strengthen our communities and advance United Way’s mission.

Over 20,000 Total Volunteer Hours

345

471

4,368

5,092

Valued at

FY23

FY24

FY23

FY24

$624,917

Volunteer Hours Per Project

37% increase year-over year

*Based on the $31.24/hour volunteer rate for calendar year 2023 from Independent Sector. independentsector.org/resource/value-of-volunteer-time/

Total Volunteers

17% increase year-over year

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WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES THE COMMUNITY GIVING CAMPAIGN Led by Jay Wilson of International Paper, this year’s Campaign focused on the growing need for United Way and its nonprofit partners amid the Coastal Empire’s rapid advancement. Because while the Coastal Empire is “on a roll” with unprecedented economic development, business investment, and job creation, we have already seen growing pains and challenges in critical areas like food, housing, healthcare, childcare, literacy, job training and more.

With the theme of “We’re on a roll, let’s get to work,” Jay and his team called on the entire region to support United Way through donations and volunteerism. By working together and rolling up our sleeves, the community came together to address these critical needs and sustain our community’s momentum through our Community Giving Campaign.

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CAMPAIGN CHAIR Jay Wilson

WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

CAMPAIGN HIGHLIGHTS

FUNDRAISING TOTAL: $9,410,298

Pacesetters

New Business Partners

19 Pacesetter Campaigns raised 28% more than they did the previous year

We added 24 new businesses to the United Way roster, contributing an additional $88,000

Workplace Giving

Corporate Partners

92 of this year’s completed Workplace Campaigns raised more money than the previous year

For the second year in a row, 3 corporate partners each raised more than half a million dollars through employee giving and corporate matches! Gulfstream, Colonial Group, and Georgia Ports Authority.

Business Champions Business Champions increased the total giving of their accounts by over 21% totalling nearly $2 million

Traditional Fall Giving Campaign The Traditional Fall Giving Campaign increased 8% from last year’s campaign

*The above fundraising total includes support for the Community Fund, designated giving, and a mix of Grants, managed funds & other restricted giving.

Bob Mock $1M donation

Colonial/ Enmarket Roundup

Mr. Bob Mock generously pledged $1 million to United Way of the Coastal Empire to address housing needs in Bryan County. This historic gift will fund essential support for residents facing housing challenges, including rental and mortgage assistance, partial down payments, emergency shelter, and more. A dedicated committee was established to collaborate with Mr. Mock on developing eligibility criteria, guidelines, and processes for distributing these vital resources.

One of our top three largest corporate donors, Colonial Group, Inc., introduced new and creative ways to boost their support this year. They created a round-up campaign to encourage customers to round up their purchase totals to the nearest dollar, with the difference donated to a local United Way chapter. This campaign not only benefited our region, but also extended support to United Ways across multiple states, amplifying their impact and partnership with United Way. Locally, the campaign raised $16,807 for the United Way Community Fund, directly supporting programs and services in our area.

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WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

COMMUNITY SUPPORT Our Community Giving Campaign thrives thanks to dedicated individuals whose support and local connections amplify our impact, ensuring every dollar makes a difference.

Campaign Cabinet

Business Champions

EVENTS

Ambassadors

Young Leaders

Kickoff – All Four Counties We gathered our safety vests and put on our hard hats to launch our traditional fall giving campaign with a bang! We kicked things off with a sold-out event in Chatham County, followed by energetic kickoff events in Bryan, Effingham, and Liberty counties. The high attendance and enthusiasm at each event helped us rally even more supporters across the region.

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WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

EVENTS (CONT.) Women Who Rule The Women Who Rule event, chaired by Diana Morrison and honoring Carol Bell as the 2024 Woman of the Year, shattered records this year! With 1,000 supporters in attendance, it was our largest event yet, raising an incredible net total of $88,000 for the Women United Transportation Fund. A special thanks to our dedicated “Roadies” on the Women Who Rule committee, whose efforts in connecting local businesses and rallying attendees made this event a tremendous success.

Shop & Dine In 2023, over 23 local businesses joined forces for Shop & Dine Weekend, creating a vibrant event of shopping, dining, and community support. Thanks to these generous merchants, who contributed proceeds from certain items or a percentage of total sales, we raised $9,771 for the Community Fund.

Turkey Trot Our 15th annual Turkey Trot was another record-breaker! Thanksgiving morning brought our largest turnout yet, with more participants than ever before. The 2023 event sold out at 1,500 participants and generated the highest fundraising total in the event’s history. Thanks to this remarkable growth, we raised $33,666 for the Community Fund.

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WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

CORPORATE RECOGNITION Gulfstream Aerospace Georgia Ports Authority Colonial Group For just the second time in United Way of the Coastal Empire’s history, three corporate partners—Gulfstream Aerospace, Georgia Ports Authority, and Colonial Group— each raised over half a million dollars through employee giving and corporate matches. These industry leaders consistently excel in all they do, and this year, they’ve once again shown their deep commitment to our community. We’re proud to honor and celebrate their remarkable generosity and unwavering support.

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WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

TOP 50 MOST GENEROUS COMPANIES United Way is proud to partner with hundreds of businesses and organizations devoutly committed to giving back to our community. We honor and celebrate these leaders in workplace giving.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Colonial Group, Inc. Georgia Ports Authority Dulany Industries Georgia-Pacific Savannah River Mill Publix Super Markets Foram Group Inc. International Paper City of Savannah Chatham County Government JCB St. Joseph’s/Candler Health System Savannah Chatham County Public School System Effingham County Board of Education Critz Auto Group Thomas & Hutton Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Synovus Bryan County Schools Target Liberty County Board of Education Truist Bank Bouhan Falligant, LLP Savannah Economic Development Authority Kraton Chemical

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50

Chatham Foundation United Way of the Coastal Empire QuikTrip Memorial Health System - HCA Shaw Industries Pembroke Advanced Communications Savannah Pilots Association HunterMaclean Bryan County Government Overcoming By Faith Ministries BankSouth First Chatham Bank WJCL-TV Georgia Power Chatham Steel Corporation Hancock Askew & Co., LLP Effingham County Board of Commissioners Margaret L. Martin Charitable Foundation Bernard Williams & Company The Horne Law Firm Realty One Group Inclusion Senior Citizens, Inc. Costco Wholesale Liberty County Board of Commissioners Goodwill of Southeast Georgia, Inc.

UNITED WE IMPROVE LIVES 27

WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

CRAIG HARNEY SPIRIT OF PHILANTHROPY AWARDS Our annual United in Gratitude event featured the presentation of the Craig Harney Spirit of Philanthropy Awards, a series of three awards that salute individuals in the areas of giving, advocating, and volunteering. The awards presented were named in honor and memory of long-time United Way volunteer and supporter Craig Harney.

The Give Award went to Bob Mock, who gave the single largest individual gift in our 86-year history to support Bryan County residents facing housing-related challenges. The Advocate

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Award was presented to Sam McCachern, a dedicated volunteer, donor, board member, and past campaign chair. The Volunteer Award went to Taylor Gaskin, a loyal supporter who volunteers her time to make a difference in Liberty County and across our region.

Congratulations to these incredible United Way volunteers!

(From Left to Right) Taylor Gaskin - Volunteer Award Honoree Bob Mock - Give Award Honoree Sam McCachern - Advocate Award Honoree

WHAT MAKES IT POSSIBLE TO IMPROVE LIVES

HOW CAN YOUR BUSINESSES CAN HELP? Businesses can get involved in many exciting ways. Whether it’s a one-day fundraiser, offering yearround discounts, volunteering, or sponsoring an event, support from local businesses can make a huge difference. We offer many benefits including recognition at events and on social media, digital and print ads, media coverage, events tickets, and more.

Sponsor an Event Our mission is simple—mobilize the caring power of our community. By sponsoring an event, you help do just that by offsetting event costs so that we can raise awareness and funds for crucial causes like the Community Fund or the Women United Transportation Fund.

Start a Workplace Campaign Workplace campaigns do more than raise money—they build awareness of local issues, foster generosity, and strengthen company culture. Get your team involved today!

Commit to an Always United Challenge Get creative! Whether it’s donating proceeds from certain sales or creating a “United Way” day, the challenge is yours to design.

Become a Caring Club Vendor Offer exclusive discounts to Caring Club members, who donate $182 or more yearly.

It’s a win-win for your business and the community!

Volunteer with Your Team From meal prep to virtual tutoring, volunteering with United Way is fulfilling and flexible. We can even set up a custom opportunity for your whole team!

YOU CAN IMPROVE LIVES

Want to Learn more?

Contact us at campaign@uwce.org or (912) 651-7700

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VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, 2023-2024 Board Chair | Ken Rabitsch, Synovus Board Vice-Chair | Michael Kaigler, Chatham County Government Campaign Chair | Jay Wilson, International Paper Campaign Vice-Chair | Dr. Yancy Ford, Effingham County School District Immediate Past Board Chair | Mark Bennett, Gulfstream Aerospace Secretary | Cindy Robinett, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Treasurer | Mark Sprosty, SEDA Community Investments Chair | Sarah Jones, Truist Direct Services Chair | Joe Tallent, Effingham Health System Marketing Chair | Bob Klausmeier, Verde Outdoor Advertising Race, Equity & Opportunity Chair | Kimberly Ballard-Washington, Attorney Strategic Planning Chair | Ryan Sewell, Sterling Seacrest Pritchard Volunteers Chair | Larry Silbermann, WRHQ/Q 105.3 At-Large | Ryan Chandler, Colonial Group, Inc. At-Large | Chief Terry Enoch, Savannah-Chatham County Public School System At-Large | Cecilia Russo Turner, Cecilia Russo Marketing At-Large | Taffanye Young, City of Savannah

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kathleen Anderson, Brasseler USA Somi Benson-Jaja, Shot by Somi Studios David Burkoff, HunterMaclean Judge Lisa Colbert, Chatham County Superior Court Stephanie Cutter, Chatham Area Transit Authority Jennifer Davenport, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce & Visit Savannah Marsha Fogarty, WTOC Catherine Grant, ExperCARE Chief Lenny Gunther, Savannah Police Department Susan Hancock, Abshire Public Relations Ben Hart, WJCL David Hart, WSAV Dr. Tonia Howard-Hall, School Board Member and Retired Educator LaMeisha Hunter, Effingham Health System Bill Kelso, Goodwill Dr. Ann Levett, Retired Superintendent Patti Lyons, Senior Citizens Inc. 30

Quentin Marlin, Ellis Painter Attorneys At Law Sam McCachern, Thomas & Hutton Jamie McCurry, Georgia Ports Authority Tara Nobles, Colonial Group Jeff O’Connor, First Citizens Bank Ryan Price, JE Dunn Construction Lisette Ricelli, Agenda Latina Pritpal Singh, LEFT LANE Development Chris Smith, Hyundai Motor Group Mayor Chris Stacy, City of Riceboro Pastor Ricky Temple, Overcoming by Faith Ansley Threlkeld, Attorney Dr. Mike Toma, Georgia Southern University Julia Tyre, Memorial Health Jordan Urban, Pilot Co./Flying J Patrick Wall, St. Joseph’s/Candler Rev. Chance Ward, Goshen UMC Judge Derek White, Chatham County State Court Aaron Wilborn, Dick Broadcasting Linda Wilder-Bryan, Savannah City Council

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP

ADVISORY BOARDS Bryan County

Effingham County

Chair | Jordan Urban, Pilot Flying J Chris Benson, City of Pembroke Jackie Deloach, Advent Therapy Kathryn Downs, Bryan County Leslie Harris, EXP Realty Sarah Lippert, AmerisBank Richmond Hill Jenny Miller, Pembroke Advanced Communication Denise Scott, Bryan County Schools Raul Secundino, Pembroke Police Department Sarah Siciliani, Savannah Laundry Wendy Sims-Futch, Bryan County Family Connection Devin Strong, Spirit of Peace Lutheran Church Kacy Vance, State Farm Katelin Wray, Community Volunteer

Chair | LaMeisha Hunter, Effingham Health System Anna Barton, Effingham County Board of Education Leslie Dunn, Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Matt Gill, Effingham Emergency Management Agency Matt Huntley, Effingham County Board of Education Derrick Kessler, Georgia-Pacific, Savannah River Mill Sarah Mausolf, Effingham County Board of Commissioners Kevin Owens, Gulfstream Chad Pace, Georgia Power – Plant McIntosh Sonja Scott, Launch.Me Consultants Abby Smith, LEAP Youth Development Program Brian Van Ness, GOL Security, LLC Chance Ward, Goshen United Methodist Church Ryan Waters, Edward Jones

Liberty County

The United Way Board room was named in honor of longtime volunteer, Dale Critz, Sr.

Chair | Danny Creasy, Ameris Bank Kamaria Boston, Play Datez Child Development Center Theresa Falkner, SNF Holdings David Floyd, Liberty Family Connections Taylor Gaskin, Community Member Damien Graham, Community Member Chrisie Hill, Thomas Hill Jewelers Tracey Howard, Chief Hinesville Police Department Teddra Jakes, Coastal Georgia Area Community Action Authority Verdell Jones, Chairperson Liberty Board of Education Vickie Nelson, Hinesville Mayor Pro Tem Stephanie Osteen, Community Member Brooke Smith, Liberty County Board of Education Mayor Chris Stacy, Mayor City of Riceboro Lisa Thomas, Community Member Patrick Underwood, City of Walthourville Councilperson Wendy Underwood, Liberty County School System Clemontine Washington, Mayor Pro Tem City of Midway

For a full list of our 2024-2025 volunteer leadership visit: uwce.org/volunteer-leadership 31

ALEXIS DE TOCQUEVILLE SOCIETY

CHAIR Austin Sullivan

The Alexis de Tocqueville Society, named after French diplomat Alexis de Tocqueville, honors his insights on American society and philanthropy from his 1831 visit, later captured in three volumes entitled Democracy in America. Though he spent only nine months in the United States, he observed profound truths about American society, particularly the spirit of generosity and commitment to the common good. His belief that advancing the common good creates opportunities for all remains true today.

Thankfully, the Tocqueville Society’s leadership givers share this belief and contribute profoundly to the Coastal Empire.

I must say that I have seen Americans make a great deal of real sacrifices to the public welfare; and have noticed a hundred instances in which they hardly ever failed to lend a faithful support to one another.

- Alexis de Tocqueville, et al. Democracy in America. J. & H.G. Langley, 1840

LA SOCIÉTÉ NATIONALE $100,000 and above Meredith and Reed Dulany Bob Faircloth Mr. and Mrs. Robert S. Jepson, Jr. Bob Mock Susan and Stephen Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Travis Stringer Mr. and Mrs. Don L. Waters

ORDRE D’EGALITÉ $50,000 - $74,999 Dr. and Mrs. William T. Moore Thomas V. and Susan G. Reilly Robert M. and Diane K.S. Levy J.C. Lewis Foundation 32

ALEXIS DETOCQUEVILLE SOCIETY

ORDRE DE LIBERTÉ

MEMBRE DE LA SOCIÉTÉ

$25,000 - $49,999

$10,000 - $14,999

Anonymous (1) Dr. and Mrs. Sidney J. Bolch III Gale and Gene Cartledge Mrs. Dale C. Critz, Sr. Joseph and Melinda Herring Frances and John Kane Ann and Charles Koepke Donald L. and Sandra R. Mayer The Solomons Family Austin and Marti Sullivan

Anonymous (3) Mr. and Mrs. William J. Barton, Jr. Amy Brock Mr. John E. Cay III Matt Clements Robert and Regina Cooper Tom and April Cullen Christian Demere Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. Demere, Jr. Yash Desai Helen Downing The Dunn Foundation Carter and Steve Eagle Mr. and Mrs. J. Daniel Falligant Bob and Kay Ford Stephen and Barbara Lynn Green Derek E. Horne Mr. and Mrs. William E. Johnston Robert Kenyon Don Kole LeeAnn and Jeff Kole Hilary and Lowell Kronowitz Rachel and Nicholas Lesher Griff Lynch Kathleen and Michael McCarthy Jerry and Vicki McElreath Mrs. Howard J. Morrison, Jr. Jeanne and David Paddison George and Ellen Powers Stephen and Jacqueline Rabinowitz Cindy and Roddie Robinett Billy Robinson John and Laura Lee Samford Mr. and Mrs. Mark V. Smith Paula and Glenn Wallace Courtney and Matt West Dr. and Mrs. Robert Zerbe

ORDRE DE CLASSIQUE $15,000 - $24,999 Anonymous (1) Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Ira P. Berman and Helen A. Borrello Mr. and Mrs. Daniel H. Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Francis A. Brown Mrs. Judy M. Byck Tori and Ryan Chandler Clay and Ginny Cheshire Debbie and Dale Critz, Jr. Staci and Chris Donegan Tony Eichholz Dayle and Aaron Levy Reverend and Mrs. Ricky Temple Cecilia Russo Turner and Bob Turner Mr. and Mrs. R.C. Whitaker Cynthia Willett

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BEACON SOCIETY The Beacon Society is United Way’s largest donor group and anchors the traditional fall campaign. United Way honors Beacon Society members for investing in the well-being of our community and inspiring others with their leadership giving.

FLEET ADMIRAL’S CIRCLE

COMMODORE’S CIRCLE

$7,500 – $9,999

$2,500 – $4,999

Marianne and Chuck Canter Douglas E. Herman Brad and Ann Samuelson

ADMIRAL’S CIRCLE $5,000 – $7,499

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Anonymous (1) Gustavous H. Bell IV In Memory of Kati Burdett Mr. and Mrs. William B. Haile Kathy Horne and Carl Pedigo Vanessa and Michael Kaigler B.H. and Marjorie Levy Jamie and Kendall McCurry Kimberly Waller and Jay Melder Timothy C. Mooney Kimberly and Jon Pannell Ken and Debbie Rabitsch Joan Ross Gena Tarbutton Misty Thompson Eloise Wardell Erin and James Waterman Randall Webb Mr. and Mrs. Robert Weber Frank and Lois Wooten

Anonymous (8) Lise and Ben Altman Karen Anagnost Cort and John Atkinson Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie A. Barnhill, Jr. Elaine and David Barrow Betty and Walker Beeson Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bell Drs. Joe and Marilyn Buck Mark L. Burns Dakin and Britta Christenson Gloria Cirincione Jodi Clark John & Avis Coleman Randy and Helen Collins Suzanne Cooler and David White Mary Jane Crouch Drs. Sherry and Tom Danello Leia and Jon Dedic Diane and Jay Deering Mr. D. Morgan Derst and Ms. Pam Miltiades Terri and Michael Doyle Stephanie and John Duttenhaver John and Jean Fishburne Todd and Penny Freeseman Sharon and Murray Galin Susan Gardner Drs. Adelle Burnsed-Geffen and Theodore Geffen

BEACON SOCIETY

Ronda R. Gross Patsy and Joey Grainger Todd and Penny Freeseman Pam and Kyle Harding Paul E. and Amy W. Harkness Thomas Hussey Doug Johnson William and Jamie Kelso Nancy Larsen Scott and Jodi Lewis Dr. and Mrs. James G. Lindley, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Jeffrey S. Mandel Jason Marshall Heather and Ed McCarthy Ana and Jim Mercer Freddie and Dr. Rose C. Milton Freddie Matthew Milton Jr. and Dr. Rose Marie Milton Tammie N. Mosley Justin Nash Ellen and Jeff O’Connor Rick and Lori Panettieri Mandy and Neil Parsons Howard and Patty Paul Heather E. Peloquin Karen and Cliff Pyron Mr. and Mrs. Gerald L. Rainey Michelle and Rigel Rodriguez Debbie and Mike Rouzee Veronica and Richard Ruggles Bruce and Sherry Schneidewind Mary and Gregg Schroeder Sarah and David Sink

Priscilla and Ron Stahl Jim and Janet Stevenson Elizabeth Talcott Stout Mr. and Mrs. T. Pratt Summers Michael M. and Kathleen M. Taylor Hugh “Trip” and Tracey Tollison Michael and Lisa Traynor Chris and Jennifer Wright Mr. and Mrs. Chris Wright Mr. and Mrs. David A. Young Mr. and Mrs. Richard T. Young Michael & Linda Zoller

CAPTAIN’S CIRCLE $1,500 – $2,499 Anonymous (12) Todd Abler Barbara and Kenneth Alday Bill and Deidra Anderson Kimmerly N. Argenta David Arndt Mark Arnold Jim and Carol Austin Kim and Danny Bachman Kimberly Ballard-Washington and Craig Washington Katie Balthrop Paul and Vanessa Barger

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BEACON SOCIETY

CAPTAIN’S CIRCLE (continued) $1,500 – $2,499 Wesley Barrell Mr. and Mrs. Craig Barrow III Capt. and Mrs. Benjamin N. Beason Leslie and Bill Bennison Lauren Blatt and Brian Tanner Ashley Boatright Vanessa Boren Eneida Bourne Robert and Colleen Brannen Virginia and Kevin Broderick David Burkoff and Emmy Pointer Sheri Butler Joanne R. Caldwell Brady Cannon Margie and Jason Chambless George Christian Maya Ciric Susan and Stuart Clifford Dr. Scott Cohen Sgt. G. Scott and Laura C. Coleman Carol S. Coppola Linda Cramer Barry Crawford Stephen and Stacy Crawford Dr. Henry & Suzanne Croci Jaime Dailey-Vergara and Jose Vergara Mr. and Mrs. William T. Daniel, Jr. Andrea Dove W. Bernard Doyle David O. Du Bose III Mr. and Mrs. John P. Ebberwein Mr. and Mrs. Rob Ellis David and Sharon L. Evankovich Dr. and Mrs. William S. Ray, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Yancy Ford DeAnna and Eric Fournier Thomas G. Gale John L. Garceau and Francesca Macchiaverna Arthur and Andrea Gartland Jenny L. Gentry T. Mark and Diane Gentry Trey and Christina Glendye Dr. Danae Goldberg and Dr. Ronald Goldberg Robin and Richard Greco 36

Hope and Will Gruver Richard H. Hamilton Benjamin Hart David Hart Jo and Chris Hart Kate Haslam Nolan Hennessee Olli Himbert Toby W. Hollenberg Julia and Leamon Holliday Marcus L. Hooks Gregory D. Howe Misty and Mike Hughes Mark Jackovich and Pamela Stewart Linda and Thomas James Judy K. Johnson Ben and Shae Jones Sarah K. Jones Michael Kaslik Doyle and Mary Kelley James Kline Pamela Korb Robert E. and Marie E. Kraft Family Fund Jim and Karen Laplander Diane A. Lapsley in Memory of Robert Lapsley Mill Lawson Dr. Harvey C. Lebos Neil and Carrie Ligon Lynda Lum Patti and Patrick Lyons Quentin Marlin Jocelyn and TJ Marrs Leta and John Martin Robert and Paige May Mr. and Mrs. J. Cliff McCurry Andrew L. McIntosh Julie and Jerry McLean Teresa and Lamar Mercer Carole and Bob Michna Tyler Midgett Peter and Molly Mierke Larry and Mary Miller Mr. and Mrs. Scott K. Monson Mr. James and Patty Morgan Brendan Moss Dr. and Mrs. Morgan W. Murray James Murray Karl Nell

BEACON SOCIETY Chris and Kim Nicholson Barbara W. Nutting Jenny and Tim O’Sako Meg and Tom Pace Pam and Roy Page Patrick Patten David Perpinan Constance and Raymond Pittman David and Maggie Porter Donna and Steve Pound Dr. Giselle Rosinia and Dr. Stephen Rasleigh Ms. Julie Raulerson Kimberly and Jimmy Rhodes Steven Ritchie William and Louise Roux Corey Sams Mr. and Mrs. Peter Schavoir Ben and Alisha Senger Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Sewell Ms. Cathy Sheffield Dr. Beth Sheridan and Mr. Thomas Gustinella Sally and Larry Silbermann Kelly and Kevin Smith Ann and Dan Snope Linda Artley and Cliff Spiro Teri and Mark Sprosty Clara and Richard Steinbach Jerreese Stinson Chris and Teresa Stovall Kate and Criss Strain Deanie and Joey Strength Elizabeth and John Thompson Juliette and Terry Tolbert Dr. Michael Toma Mark and Mitzi Toth Jil and Brad Trower Greg Van Brunt and Sherry Laman Dr. and Mrs. Robert Vaught Dr. Kate Vaught Louise and Tom Wagner Charles and Ariane Wallace Anthony Waters Ryan Waters Buffy Weiss Michelle White Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Kolat Margaret and Rodney Williams David and Karen Wilson

CAPTAIN’S CIRCLE (continued) $1,500 – $2,499 Rick and Linda Winger Teresa I. Winn Capt. and Mrs. Christopher L. Yarbrough, Jr. Cindy Kelley and Ken Zapp

COMMANDER’S CIRCLE $1,200 – $1,499 Anonymous (16) Jennifer Abshire Steve and Montie Acuff Dr. and Mrs. Kevin Ammar Antonio Arata Jamie S. Arkins Brockton and Jocelyn Baker R. John Barrrett, Jr. R. John Barrett Flavio Batista Mary Ann and D. Beil Bret Bell Nathan and Kim Benson Paul Bisso Ray Bordeaux Madison Bowman Kevin Boyer Shannon Bradley Mike and Gloria Bray Brian Breeman Jan and Joseph Brennan Susan Williams Broker Capt. and Mrs. William T. Brown, Jr. Austin E. Brown Capt. and Mrs. William Thomas Browne, Jr. Capt. and Mrs. William T. Browne III Guy Buck LeRoy Burke III Ann Fryer Burke Jimmy & Becky Burnsed Michael and Sheila Butler Pamela Buttimer Adam Cader Mayra Calzadilla-Vieito 37

BEACON SOCIETY

COMMANDER’S CIRCLE (continued) $1,200 – $1,499 Doug Caroll Gene Chervenak Suppasak Collins Jimmy Collins Tucker Compton Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Compton, Jr. Jessica Cook Orlando Cordero-Montalvo Dr. Steven K. Corse Mrs. Cynthia and Mr. Aaron Cradduck Kristen and Jake Crawley Tracy D. Crow Harry C. Cummings Stephanie Cutter Fred and Karen Daniel Roy W. Daring Jennifer and Leon Davenport Eddie and Hope Davis Edith and John Dekle Cyrus Alexander Deloe Drs. Josepha and John DeVaro Kathryn E. DeYulia Faye Quick DiMassimo Mr. and Mrs. David Diver Christy and Ward Divine Joe and Karen Barr Chris Driggers Capt. and Mrs. John Ebberwein II Terry L. Enoch Earl and Becky Etheridge Laura Evans Michael Everhart Stuart Exley Ken & Vonny Farrell Patrick Fields Charles Fillyaw Mr. Gregory and Dr. Erika Finch Marsha B. Fogarty Melissa Allen Foster Russell Foulke Mr. and Mrs. Charles Furchgott Dorie & David Gaskin 38

Dr. and Mrs. Morris Geffen John and Sheila Giordano A.M. Goldkrand Drs. Cheryl and Franklin Goldwire David Goslin and Nancy McGirr Troy Gouger Sally and Steve Greenberg Susan and William Hancock Capt. Carey W. Harriott, Jr. Ralph Hart Mr. and Mrs. Holden T. Hayes Ben and Monique Herron Connell Heyward Mario Hilliard Fran and Paul P. Hinchey Mary and Russell Hoffmann Damien and Kristin Hopkins-Graham Mr. and Mrs. George M. Hubbard Brian H. Hunt LaMeisha R. Hunter Chris and Shelby Ingram Mr. and Mrs. Richard C.E. Jennings Alicia M. Johnson Ben & Belinda Katko Timothy Kennedy Danielle and Derrick Kessler Suzanne and Adam Kirk Andrew Konkel Paula Kreissler Rizwan Lakhani William Lane Kelli Lawson Merry Layman Joan Levy Dave Linville Dr. and Mrs. J. Robert Logan Nathan and BJ Long Jessica and Jared Lott Robert B. Lovett Capt. Craig Maggioni Capt. Reginald Magwood Debra and Paul Mamalakis Karlos Manning Rich & Carrie Maseda Michael & Chanda Mashburn Barbara and Frank Mason

BEACON SOCIETY

Tiffany and Kyle McCann Joan and Herb McKenzie James and Katherine McNaughton Lorraine McRae, MD Tom McTier Kirk Meals Julia L. Mikell, MD Scott J. Mollison Tracey Morgan Deborah S. Morris Rosalind S. Nathaniel Scott Neal Kenneth Nichol Estella and Walton Nussbaum Peter and Susan Nyamora Hatim Odell Wayne R. Oedewaldt William Osborne Mr. and Mrs. Padgett Mixon Ashlee Peck Charles Pennington George Petrini Daniel T. Powers Bess Powers Maggie Puccini Brian and Melissa Quinney The Rainwater Family Roger Reed Mike Reid Capt. and Mrs. Dirk K. Resler, Sr. Beverley and Allan Reynolds Christopher M. Rice Debbie Rich Lois K. Robinson Anne Robinson Richard Rushing Margaret Mary Russell Dr. Linda and Mr. Stephen Sacks Robb and Katherine Sallee Cathy and Bob Scanlon James J. Scooler Dee Dee Seagraves Ken & Ansley Sellers Gracie G. Shepherd Andrew Shields Tim Smith

Nathan Smith Mr. and Mrs. Robert F. Smith Mr. and Mrs. Paul Soderberg Ignacio Soto Jane and Barry Stacey Vergie Stroman Wandrea and Lester Strowbridge Elizabeth and David Sullivan Jim Tait Joe Tallent Susan Taylor Paul F. Taylor Cole Thibodeau Olin Thomas Robert Thompson Benjamin Towns Fiorella Truslow Kevin Valik Eli Vandiver James Vick Julie and Drew Wade Mr. & Mrs. Timothy H. Ward, Sr. Cynthia Watkins Capt. and Mrs. Richard D. Wesley Capt. and Mrs. Matthew Wesley Valarie West Thad White Eddie L. White Mr. and Mrs. Richard D. Williams Ellen and Richard Williams Melanie and James Willoughby Billy Wooten Coleman J. Wright Gvonn Wyche Capt. and Mrs. Christopher Yarbrough, Sr. Brianne Yontz Annette Youmans Sabrina Young Dan and Celise Zbytovsky

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MEDIA PARTNERS Our media partners are a powerhouse of support! Their incredible in-kind contributions valued nearly $300,000 and were crucial in promoting our events and boosting the United Way message far and wide. The Coastal Empire stands out with its media leadership, showing the generous spirit of our community. We sincerely thank these amazing companies for their unwavering support!

Bryan County News Coastal Courier Connect Savannah Dick Broadcasting Group Effingham Herald

Savannah Business Journal Savannah CEO Savannah Magazine Savannah Master Calendar Savannah Morning News

LEGACY GIVING Herschel V. Jenkins will always be remembered for the good he did in his lifetime that still benefits the Coastal Empire today, many decades later.

Jenkins was a founder of United Way of the Coastal Empire. A former publisher of the Savannah Morning News and the Savannah Evening Press, Jenkins was a community building pioneer who believed in the importance of working together to achieve great things.

Jenkins’ dedication to his community was evident by his involvement in key United Way volunteer positions, serving as third Board Chair and fourth Campaign Chair.

Central Office 428 Bull Street Savannah, GA 31401 (912) 651-7700

uwce.org

The Savannah Tribune Verde Outdoor Advertising WJCL WSAV WTOC

What a man does for himself dies with him; what he does for his community lives forever.

- Herschel V. Jenkins In 1955, Jenkins set aside a trust of $500,000 for United Way which has now grown to nearly $20 million. The principal of this irrevocable trust will remain untapped, but a percentage of the income it generates covers a significant part of our United Way’s administrative and fundraising costs, depending on investment performance. Because of his vision and generosity, we can assure our donors that most – and sometimes all – of their donations are used in service to the people of the Coastal Empire.

For a Full Financial Report Visit: uwce.org/financial-reports/fy24