Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) has officially transitioned to its new business model called Investing in Results (IIR). The organization will now focus its efforts on addressing the root causes of complex community problems as identified by a comprehensive community study conducted last year. Today HFUW opened the competitive funding process for the first of four new focus areas that residents deemed most critical and urgent to address, Building Safe Communities.
Investing in Results is a new and expanded way for HFUW to address the growing health and human service needs in Central Florida. For nearly 70 years, the organization has supported programs that have helped improve the lives of millions of local residents. HFUW is now building on that legacy to create new and lasting solutions. Success will be measured by lives improved and positive changes in community conditions such as the number of children ready for high school graduation or the reduction of crime in our communities – just to name a few.
“Investing in Results is about focusing,” said Ed Timberlake, chair of the Investing in Results Council and Chairman of the Central Florida Board for Seaside National Bank & Trust. “It’s difficult to change community conditions when you’re spread a mile wide and inch deep. That’s why we’re focused on moving the needle in four investment areas, which were identified by a broad cross-section of our community through rigorous research.” These areas include:
• Building Safe Communities
• Improving Financial Stability
• Developing Healthy Children and Families
• Alleviating Hunger and Homelessness
United Way Opens Competitive Grant Opportunity of More Than $1 Million to Qualified
Community Organizations The Building Safe Communities investment area will focus on crime and unsafe neighborhoods, which were two concerns identified by HFUW’s comprehensive 2008 Tri-County Needs Assessment. HFUW is targeting projects that focus on prevention by addressing the root causes of crime and violence and those that have measurable impact on public safety at the community level, such as youth violence, youth crime, truancy and drop-out rates.
“We do not intend to provide protection against or respond to actual crimes. This is obviously the realm of our local police,” stated Robert H. (Bob) Brown, President and CEO of HFUW. “However, through this competitive funding process, we plan on collaborating with law enforcement as well as other community organizations that focus on crime prevention to create safer more cohesive communities.”
The Building Safe Communities RFP Process
The first stage of the competitive funding process for Building Safe Communities is open from April 8 through 22. Those organizations/programs interested in applying for a grant can view the parameters of the application at www.hfuw.org/Investing_in_Results.php. From there, they are encouraged to take the first step and submit a Letter of Interest (LOI).
This process is being overseen by volunteers, all issue experts and community leaders, who will review applications and make funding recommendations to the HFUW Board of Directors. The award recipients will be notified and announced in late September, after final approval by the HFUW board of directors.
HFUW’s full move to Investing in Results will occur over the next three to five years with a gradual transition whereby nearly all of the organization’s partner agencies will participate in the competitive funding process. The remaining two investment areas will be rolled out one at a time to ensure smooth execution and maximum impact: Improving Financial Stability in May 2009 and Developing Healthy Children & Families in early 2010.
To address Alleviating Hunger and Homelessness, United Way is partnering with the Central Florida Regional Commission on Homelessness, which is already working on a 10-year plan to end homelessness. By providing administrative, fundraising, marketing and other support to the
commission, United Way has established a model for other new partnerships that will evolve as
Investing in Results unfolds.
United Way Opens Competitive Grant Opportunity of More Than $1 Million to Qualified
Community Organizations For additional information about Investing in Results or the Building Safe Communities RFP, please visit www.hfuw.org/Investing_in_Results.php or contact the Community Investment department at 407-835-0900 ext. 389.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Friday, April 3, 2009
United Way Photo Exhibit Honors Community Volunteers
Organization Kicks-Off Volunteer Photo Exhibit by Honoring Four Local Volunteers
In conjunction with National Volunteer Month in April, Heart of Florida
United Way (HFUW) recently launched a photo exhibit that highlights volunteer efforts throughout the tri-county area, called Living United Through Volunteerism. Nearly 150 community members attended the kick-off event which honored volunteers who generously donate their time and talent to help those in need. During the event four local individuals and corporate volunteer groups were recognized for their contributions.
Living United Through Volunteerism features images of local corporate and individual volunteers in action as they assist nonprofit organizations and the clients they serve. Portions of the exhibits can be viewed throughout April at public library locations in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. The exhibit is designed to celebrate volunteerism and encourage others to get involved. “Volunteerism is a critical building block in creating a healthy, vibrant and engaged community where all people have the opportunity to prosper and succeed,” said Richard T. Crotty, Orange County Mayor and 2008-09 United Way Campaign Chair, who served as co-host of the event along with Orlando Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell.
Among the featured photos are images from United Way’s Annual Days of Caring, which takes place this year on Friday, September 18. As the tri-county region’s largest volunteer event, it’s supported each year by approximately 1,500 employees from Lockheed Martin Corp., Walt Disney World, Publix Super Markets, and many other businesses. “At United Way, we believe that when we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all,” said Lorri Highet, Director of the United Way Volunteer Resource Center (VRC). “In these difficult times when local nonprofits are struggling to keep pace with the great and growing need, volunteers are more important than ever.”
Each exhibit will include contact cards that visitors can fill out to receive information about getting involved. Members of the VRC team will follow-up to discuss interests, needs and volunteer opportunities.
In addition to launching the photo exhibit, HFUW honored several corporate leaders and individuals whose efforts to serve people in need are making a difference in our community. Among those recognized on April 1 during a reception at The Mall at Millenia were Lockheed Martin Corporation; Helen Donegan, Vice President of Community Relations for UCF; Donna Templin, a retired cast manager for Walt Disney World Resort; and Mary Bivin, a retiree from OUC-The Reliable One.
In 2008, the Corporation for National & Community Service issued a report which stated Orlando ranked 46 out of the 50 metropolitan cities for volunteering in America; and, that just 332,000 Central Florida residents volunteered between 2007 and 2008. Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) is looking to improve our region’s standing while also providing benefits to the community.
For businesses and individuals interested in giving back, the United Way Volunteer Resource Center is ready to help plan meaningful projects for groups of any size. To learn more, contact the center at (407) 835-0900 or visit www.volunteerorlando.com.
Living United Through Volunteerism
Photo Exhibit Locations
(as of 3/31/09)
Orange County
North Orange Branch: 1211 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, FL 32703
Herndon Branch: 4324 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32803
Southeast Branch: 5575 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL 32822
West Oaks Branch: 1821 E. Silver Star Rd., Ocoee, FL 34761
Osceola County
Hart Memorial Central Library: 211 E. Dankin Ave., Kissimmee, FL 34741
Seminole County
Northwest Branch: 580 Greenway Blvd., Lake Mary, FL 32746
Jean Rhein Central Branch: 215 N. Oxford Rd., Casselberry, FL 32707
West Branch: 245 N. Hunt Club Blvd., Longwood, FL 32779
North Branch: 150 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL 32771
East Branch: 310 Division St., Oveido, FL 32765
Living United Through Volunteerism
2009 Volunteer Honorees
Corporate Luminary – Lockheed Martin
In presenting the awards, co-host and Orlando Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell noted that Central Florida is fortunate to have many companies that are exemplary civic partners. “Choosing just one is difficult, but Lockheed Martin makes volunteerism part of its mission, thus shining a bright light that others can follow when it comes to giving back,” he said.
Honored as a “Corporate Luminary,” Lockheed was recognized for its many contributions, including its dedication to supporting local schools and charitable organizations. Last year, Lockheed employees gave 80,000 hours of volunteer service to community causes. In addition, the company donated more than $1.5 million to local charities, including HFUW.
Corporate Leader – Helen Donegan, Vice President of Community Relations for UCF
Honored for her longstanding support of local health, charitable and arts organizations, Donegan was recognized as an Influential Community Leader who motivates and inspires others to get involved.
Encouraging everyone to find time to give back, Donegan noted that it’s important for companies and individuals to make volunteerism a priority. “Everyone is busy, but some issues are so important that it’s worth the extra effort to invest your time,” she said.
In Retirement – Mary Bivin
Since retiring as a supervisor with OUC–The Reliable One in 2000, Bivin has made volunteering her second career. She was honored for her remarkable dedication serving others through HFUW and Coalition for the Homeless and renovating homes for families in need through her church.
Her advice to others who want to get involved, “Just jump in. No matter what your background,
interests or skill level, you can do something. Agencies need all kinds of help.”
In a Lifetime – Donna Templin, Manager, Basics: Cast Services Support for Walt Disney World Resort (retired)
From an early age, some people discover the rewards of volunteering and make it a lifelong passion and pursuit. Resonating from her teenage years, volunteering became a part of Donna Templin’s 35-year career with Disney where she actively supported A Gift for Teaching, Second Harvest Food Bank, Seniors First, Junior Achievement and other organizations.
As a mother, mentoring children has been a particular passion, which is why her work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is the most rewarding. But it was through Disney that she began serving with United Way nearly 20 years ago. Since then, she’s donated hundreds of hours, in large part, by serving on the United Way Fund Distribution Panel, which oversees the important work of distributing community fundraising dollars. She also has the distinction of serving on the Board of Governors for United Way of Florida.
When asked by she’s been a lifelong volunteer, Templin explained that she’s has much good fortune in her life and she wants to share it with others.
In conjunction with National Volunteer Month in April, Heart of Florida
United Way (HFUW) recently launched a photo exhibit that highlights volunteer efforts throughout the tri-county area, called Living United Through Volunteerism. Nearly 150 community members attended the kick-off event which honored volunteers who generously donate their time and talent to help those in need. During the event four local individuals and corporate volunteer groups were recognized for their contributions.
Living United Through Volunteerism features images of local corporate and individual volunteers in action as they assist nonprofit organizations and the clients they serve. Portions of the exhibits can be viewed throughout April at public library locations in Orange, Osceola and Seminole counties. The exhibit is designed to celebrate volunteerism and encourage others to get involved. “Volunteerism is a critical building block in creating a healthy, vibrant and engaged community where all people have the opportunity to prosper and succeed,” said Richard T. Crotty, Orange County Mayor and 2008-09 United Way Campaign Chair, who served as co-host of the event along with Orlando Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell.
Among the featured photos are images from United Way’s Annual Days of Caring, which takes place this year on Friday, September 18. As the tri-county region’s largest volunteer event, it’s supported each year by approximately 1,500 employees from Lockheed Martin Corp., Walt Disney World, Publix Super Markets, and many other businesses. “At United Way, we believe that when we reach out a hand to one, we influence the condition of all,” said Lorri Highet, Director of the United Way Volunteer Resource Center (VRC). “In these difficult times when local nonprofits are struggling to keep pace with the great and growing need, volunteers are more important than ever.”
Each exhibit will include contact cards that visitors can fill out to receive information about getting involved. Members of the VRC team will follow-up to discuss interests, needs and volunteer opportunities.
In addition to launching the photo exhibit, HFUW honored several corporate leaders and individuals whose efforts to serve people in need are making a difference in our community. Among those recognized on April 1 during a reception at The Mall at Millenia were Lockheed Martin Corporation; Helen Donegan, Vice President of Community Relations for UCF; Donna Templin, a retired cast manager for Walt Disney World Resort; and Mary Bivin, a retiree from OUC-The Reliable One.
In 2008, the Corporation for National & Community Service issued a report which stated Orlando ranked 46 out of the 50 metropolitan cities for volunteering in America; and, that just 332,000 Central Florida residents volunteered between 2007 and 2008. Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) is looking to improve our region’s standing while also providing benefits to the community.
For businesses and individuals interested in giving back, the United Way Volunteer Resource Center is ready to help plan meaningful projects for groups of any size. To learn more, contact the center at (407) 835-0900 or visit www.volunteerorlando.com.
Living United Through Volunteerism
Photo Exhibit Locations
(as of 3/31/09)
Orange County
North Orange Branch: 1211 E. Semoran Blvd., Apopka, FL 32703
Herndon Branch: 4324 E. Colonial Dr., Orlando, FL 32803
Southeast Branch: 5575 S. Semoran Blvd., Orlando, FL 32822
West Oaks Branch: 1821 E. Silver Star Rd., Ocoee, FL 34761
Osceola County
Hart Memorial Central Library: 211 E. Dankin Ave., Kissimmee, FL 34741
Seminole County
Northwest Branch: 580 Greenway Blvd., Lake Mary, FL 32746
Jean Rhein Central Branch: 215 N. Oxford Rd., Casselberry, FL 32707
West Branch: 245 N. Hunt Club Blvd., Longwood, FL 32779
North Branch: 150 N. Palmetto Ave., Sanford, FL 32771
East Branch: 310 Division St., Oveido, FL 32765
Living United Through Volunteerism
2009 Volunteer Honorees
Corporate Luminary – Lockheed Martin
In presenting the awards, co-host and Orlando Sentinel Columnist Scott Maxwell noted that Central Florida is fortunate to have many companies that are exemplary civic partners. “Choosing just one is difficult, but Lockheed Martin makes volunteerism part of its mission, thus shining a bright light that others can follow when it comes to giving back,” he said.
Honored as a “Corporate Luminary,” Lockheed was recognized for its many contributions, including its dedication to supporting local schools and charitable organizations. Last year, Lockheed employees gave 80,000 hours of volunteer service to community causes. In addition, the company donated more than $1.5 million to local charities, including HFUW.
Corporate Leader – Helen Donegan, Vice President of Community Relations for UCF
Honored for her longstanding support of local health, charitable and arts organizations, Donegan was recognized as an Influential Community Leader who motivates and inspires others to get involved.
Encouraging everyone to find time to give back, Donegan noted that it’s important for companies and individuals to make volunteerism a priority. “Everyone is busy, but some issues are so important that it’s worth the extra effort to invest your time,” she said.
In Retirement – Mary Bivin
Since retiring as a supervisor with OUC–The Reliable One in 2000, Bivin has made volunteering her second career. She was honored for her remarkable dedication serving others through HFUW and Coalition for the Homeless and renovating homes for families in need through her church.
Her advice to others who want to get involved, “Just jump in. No matter what your background,
interests or skill level, you can do something. Agencies need all kinds of help.”
In a Lifetime – Donna Templin, Manager, Basics: Cast Services Support for Walt Disney World Resort (retired)
From an early age, some people discover the rewards of volunteering and make it a lifelong passion and pursuit. Resonating from her teenage years, volunteering became a part of Donna Templin’s 35-year career with Disney where she actively supported A Gift for Teaching, Second Harvest Food Bank, Seniors First, Junior Achievement and other organizations.
As a mother, mentoring children has been a particular passion, which is why her work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida is the most rewarding. But it was through Disney that she began serving with United Way nearly 20 years ago. Since then, she’s donated hundreds of hours, in large part, by serving on the United Way Fund Distribution Panel, which oversees the important work of distributing community fundraising dollars. She also has the distinction of serving on the Board of Governors for United Way of Florida.
When asked by she’s been a lifelong volunteer, Templin explained that she’s has much good fortune in her life and she wants to share it with others.
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