Heart of Florida United Way

Background

Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW), established in 1939, is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the health, education, and financial stability of individuals and families in Central Florida. Serving Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties, HFUW focuses on addressing the needs of the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population—individuals who earn above the federal poverty level but struggle to afford basic necessities. By collaborating with local businesses, governments, donors, and nonprofits, HFUW aims to create lasting, measurable change in the community.

Key Strategic Focus

HFUW's strategic initiatives are centered around four primary areas:

• Financial Stability: Implementing programs like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) to provide free tax preparation services, helping individuals claim refunds and save on preparation fees.

• Education: Supporting educational advancement through scholarships and programs that assist students in maintaining household stability while pursuing skills training.

• Health: Promoting holistic wellness by investing in health programs and initiatives that address physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

• Basic Needs: Providing essential services such as food, shelter, and immediate support to individuals and families in crisis.

These focus areas are designed to stabilize and empower Central Florida residents, fostering upward mobility and improved quality of life.

Financials and Funding

HFUW's financial health is bolstered by diverse funding sources, including contributions, program services, and investment income. In the fiscal year ending June 2024, HFUW reported:

• Revenue: $21,817,934

• Expenses: $23,620,161

• Net Assets: $43,521,412

Notably, in 2021, HFUW received a transformative $20 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, enabling significant investments in community programs and initiatives.

Pipeline Development

HFUW continually develops and implements programs to address community needs. Key initiatives include:

• Live United Scholarship: A $1 million investment in Valencia College, serving 218 students in the fiscal year 2023, with 67% graduating and 64% securing employment post-graduation.

• Emergency Financial Assistance: Providing $4,688,049 in aid to 9,021 individuals, covering shelter, food, rent/mortgage, and utilities.

• 211 and Crisis Services: Operating a contact center that answered 249,915 contacts, benefiting an estimated 724,754 individuals and families with critical support and connections to vital resources.

Technological Platform and Innovation

HFUW has embraced digital transformation to enhance community impact. In February 2024, HFUW launched a new website designed to improve accessibility and user experience, particularly for digitally marginalized audiences. The website features:

• Community-Centric Design: Prioritizing the needs of the Central Florida community with seamless navigation.

• Enhanced Accessibility: Catering to diverse demographics, including seniors and younger audiences, with clear fonts and responsive design.

• Streamlined Resource Access: Providing effortless access to information about engagement opportunities with HFUW.

Leadership Team

HFUW's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to the organization's mission:

• Jeff Hayward: President and CEO since December 2016, with over 25 years in the United Way network and a background in public service and private sector leadership.

• JahKiya Bell, Ed.D.: Senior Advisor to the President and CEO, with extensive experience in the nonprofit sector and academia.

• Carolyn Shermer: Senior Vice President of Technology, leading the enhancement of HFUW's information technology environment.

Leadership Changes

Recent leadership changes include:

• Jessica Ganson: Promoted to Senior Vice President of Human Resources.

• Jeffrey Hayward: Appointed as CEO, bringing new perspectives to HFUW's strategic direction.

Competitor Profile

As a nonprofit organization, HFUW operates in a collaborative rather than competitive environment, focusing on partnerships to address community needs. However, other organizations in the region also contribute to similar causes, including:

• Goodwill Industries: Provides job training and employment services.

• The Sharing Center: Offers homelessness services and workforce development programs.

HFUW distinguishes itself through comprehensive services and strategic investments tailored to the Central Florida community.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

HFUW collaborates with various organizations to amplify its impact:

• AdventHealth: Teamed up to launch a mental health campaign aimed at reducing stigma and promoting awareness.

• The Sharing Center: Provided a $1 million donation to enhance homelessness services and workforce development facilities.

• Dr. Phillips Charities: Received a $100,000 grant to support programs focusing on education, health, and financial stability.

Operational Insights

HFUW's strategic considerations include:

• Diversifying Revenue Streams: To ensure financial sustainability and expand program offerings.

• Reimagining Community Investment: Focusing on initiatives that yield measurable outcomes and long-term impact.

• Leveraging the Volunteer Resource Center: Engaging community members to enhance service delivery and outreach.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, HFUW aims to:

• Expand Digital Initiatives: Building on recent technological advancements to reach a broader audience.

• Strengthen Community Partnerships: Collaborating with more organizations to address emerging community needs.

• Enhance Program Effectiveness: Utilizing data-driven approaches to assess and improve program outcomes.

Contact Information

• Website: HFUW's official website

• LinkedIn: Heart of Florida United Way

For more information or to get involved, visit HFUW's online profiles.