32 years and counting: United Way surpasses annual fundraising goal
The Floridant/10304627

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Floridant -- United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades met its $11.3 million annual campaign goal, marking the 32^nd consecutive year that supporters have rallied to support United Way and its partner agencies.

United Way President and CEO Jeannine Joy, along with Campaign Co-chairs Dr. Scott Nygaard, community volunteer, and Dan O'Berski of Trinity Commercial Group, were able to make the exciting announcement on May 13 at the annual Volunteer Appreciation event.  This year's campaign – United We're Stronger – raised $11.3 million through pledges from employees of local pacesetter companies, businesses, and generous individuals.

"Our annual fundraising goal reflects the increasing needs of our partner agencies, which grow almost every year," Joy said. "To continue reaching or exceeding this target annually, especially during tough economic times, is nothing short of phenomenal. We are incredibly fortunate to live in a community where those who have the means to help are ready and willing to lend a hand to those who need our support."

All money raised through the campaign stays in the local community to support the  United Way human service network of partner agencies, which include Harry Chapin Food Bank, Community Cooperative, Abuse Counseling and Treatment, Children's Advocacy Center, Literacy Council Gulf Coast, Boys & Girls Clubs, FISH of SanCap and dozens of additional organizations that serve a diverse range of needs in the community.

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Throughout the campaign the 'United We're Stronger' theme was ever-present with O'Berski and Nygaard portraying the iconic Saturday Night Live characters Hans and Franz. And like Hans and Franz the campaign co-chairs 'pumped' the community up to help it reach another record.

"It's always encouraging to see the community reach that number," said O'Berski. "It's a big number and it keeps on growing. Our community keeps on growing, so we know that the need keeps on growing. We keep asking and the community steps up and makes it happen."

Nearly 52% of donations during the 2024-25 campaign originated through United Way Pacesetters, which consisted of 154 businesses and organizations that launched internal fundraising campaigns last fall.

This year, United Way recognized 180 individuals as Alexis de Tocqueville Society members, a designation awarded to supporters whose philanthropic gifts make the biggest impact on local nonprofits. Tocqueville Society members contribute a minimum of $10,000 to United Way during the campaign.