Mayor Jacobs and United Way personnel receiving check

United Way is at the Heart of Orange County Government

Community & Services Public Health & Safety

Mayor Teresa Jacobs recently joined Orange County Government employees for the 2014 Heart of Florida United Way Campaign’s Victory Celebration luncheon at the Orange County Convention Center. There was much to celebrate because Orange County Government’s employees contributed an impressive $430,780 this year to the local nonprofit through fundraising efforts. For 90 years, Heart of Florida United Way has been at the forefront of health and human care services in Central Florida.

“As always, Orange County Government has done a tremendous job. It is each of you and your staff that pours your heart and soul into this campaign, so we can help our neighbors in need,” Mayor Jacobs said at the luncheon. “This has been one of the most energetic campaigns we’ve held.”

From car washes and raffles to a 5K race and a golf tournament, the United Way executive steering committees and Orange County’s departments held numerous events throughout this past year to beat the $425,000 goal set by Mayor Jacobs.

“We are so thankful to Orange County Government for the strong results from this year’s campaign,” Robert (Bob) Brown, President of Heart of Florida United Way, said. “Orange County Government has donated an astonishing $2.7 million dollars over the past five years – averaging $450,000 per year. The impact you’ve made helps one in five people in Central Florida, and our community is stronger because of you.”

Orange County departments and individuals were also recognized for their top money raising efforts, including:

  • 1st Place, County Administration Office: $79,210
  • 2nd Place, Utilities: $67,428
  • 3rd Place, Community, Environment & Development: $41,238

“I want to thank the participating constitutional offices and partners who continue to step up every year to the challenge and contribute to Orange County reaching its goal,” Mayor Jacobs said. “Every dollar that was raised during this year’s campaign is needed now more than ever and I thank everyone for their hard work.”

Every year, United Way gives Orange County employees an opportunity to give back to the community and help fellow neighbors. They are able to get involved through different aspects of the campaign such as fundraising, volunteering and agency tours.

Orange County Government has always been a strong supporter of this organization and Mayor Jacobs hosted a special employee luncheon earlier this year with employees to discuss fundraising and marketing techniques to support the campaign’s strategies.

“This is one of the many ways Orange County is able to help the community,” Orlando Portalatin, manager of Orange County’s Human Resources Division, said. “The events we do throughout the year to support the nonprofit is a great way to engage with each other and Mayor Jacobs. We are truly neighbors helping neighbors.”

A collection of photos from the 2014 Heart of Florida United Way Campaign’s Victory Celebration luncheon are available on Flickr for use by the media.

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