Shane Alexander, 2021-22 Annual Giving Campaign Chair
Greg Harrell, 2021-22 Board President
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United Way of Marion County Community Celebration - 60 Years of Impact
Ocala, FL – Over 120 people attended the United Way of Marion County’s Annual Community Celebration on May 19th, 2022, held at the Klein Center at the College of Central Florida. This event takes place annually to celebrate the outstanding efforts of those in Marion County. Donors, Annual Giving Cabinet, volunteers, local government, funded partners, campaign ambassadors, and community champions are recognized for their commitment to United Way of Marion County’s impact pillars: education, financial stability, and the Health of Marion County.
Three awards encompass the Give, Advocate, and Volunteer theme. The Changemaker of the Year Award, the Chairman’s Award, and the Phyllis Ewers Award symbolizes the Live United spirit in Marion County.
The Changemaker of the Year made its debut that evening, as it is a new award, and it was given to Marion County Commission. Marion County collaborated with United Way to aid struggling individuals who needed financial support to pay their rent and utilities during the pandemic. Under the leadership of the Marion County Commission and administration, 2,839 families could continue to live in stable housing until they could go back to work or secure a reliable income. The $15.1 million was awarded to property owners and utilities, avoiding evictions and shutoffs. United Way of Marion County President, and CEO, Scot Quintel said, “It is always better to keep individuals and families in their homes rather than relocating or restart utilities which is disruptive and adds additional costs.”
The Marion County Commissioners were honored with the Changemaker of the Year Award for the Covid Assistance Program (CAP).
The Chairmans Award is presented to an organization or individual who went the extra mile. The award was given to Signature Brands. This organization served in leadership roles on the Annual Giving Cabinet, conducted an outstanding workplace campaign, and is an advocate sponsor of Strong Families. Shane Alexander, Annual Giving Chair, recognized Jared Konstanty, Signature Brands President & CEO, and team members who exemplified excellence in Corporate Social Responsibility.
The Phyllis Ewers, Community Service Award, was established in 2019 in honor of Phyllis Ewers; this award is given annually to a female leader who exemplifies Phyllis’ passion for volunteer service and is a champion for women’s and children’s causes. This award was presented to Roseann Fricks, the recently retired Chief Executive Officer of the Early Learning Coalition of Marion County. She is committed to supporting the education and healthy development of our communities’ children and families. She has served in volunteer leadership roles with various Marion counties. Marion County children have a better road to success because of her leadership and the work of the Early Learning Coalition’s volunteers and staff. The United Way Board of Directors recognized Roseann Fricks for her service, consistent with the passion and values of Phyllis Ewers.
On behalf of the United Way of Marion County, United Way Board Chair Greg Harrell, Clerk of Court, and Comptroller recognized Shane Alexander for serving as the Annual Giving Chair. Harrell recognized Shane Alexander for his dedication, leadership, and time. He worked to raise community awareness and financial resources for United Way of Marion County programs. Several other awards were presented to volunteers and organizations for their stewardship and excellence.
United Way of Marion County’s mission is to be the community leader and trusted partner who proactively seeks solutions to change people’s lives and bring our community's diverse aspects together. To meet current health and human service needs and proactively address future issues. In the past year alone, United Way of Marion County, through the efforts of the residents and businesses, raised $1.45 Million to help our friends, families, and neighbors.
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Contact:
Scot Quintel
President &CEO
(352)732-9696 Ext. 201
Stefani Garcia
(352)732-9696 Ext. 226
Director of Marketing and Communications