FORT MYERS — United Way recently kicked off its annual campaign for Hendry and Glades counties. The campaign kickoff took place Nov. 16 at LaBelle Civic Center, with dozens of community members and organizations in attendance.

In Hendry and Glades counties, United Way has set a campaign goal of $364,200. With the help of early donors and Pacesetters, the organization has reached 27% of its goal with a total of $100,000 raised for the two counties thus far. Through the annual campaign, United Way ensures that 20 local agencies are able to continue over 40 programs and initiatives to focus on issues that improve lives and can further United Way’s mission of improving the quality of life for all people in our community.

Several donors contributed over $10,000, including VITAS Healthcare, a first-time donor to United Way, which contributed $20,000 in support of local United Way Partner Agencies. VITAS Healthcare is the largest single-source provider in the nation for end-of-life care. In 2022, the organization expanded to Lee, Glades and Hendry counties.

“VITAS is committed to providing resources through local organizations, such as United Way, that will improve the quality of life for all people,” said Bob Johnson, general manager of VITAS Healthcare in our area. “Additionally, VITAS cares deeply for programs with a focus on promoting academics and healthy communities in a rural and agricultural environment.”

The top five contributors to the annual campaign kickoff include:

• VITAS Healthcare: $20,000

• Suncoast Credit Union: $20,000

• Bob and Ellen Ferguson: $15,000

• Hendry School Board: $7,600

• Johnson and Prewitt Associates: $6,000

“We’re incredibly appreciative of our donors and their generous donations to this campaign,” said Bob Beville, campaign co-chair for United Way’s Hendry and Glades campaign. “With the help of our donors, volunteers and local community, we are able to further the mission of United Way.”

“Receiving generous donations is a great way to kickstart our campaign, and we’re thankful for the generosity shown by our donors, including our top five contributors,” added Dr. Barbara Mundy, campaign co-chair.

All funds raised through the United Way campaign will remain local to benefit the surrounding organizations and their needs.

About United Way

In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies, helping them to work together focusing on issues that continue to improve lives. United Way is dedicated to improving the quality of life for all people in our community. United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades was established in 1957 and over $225 million has been raised and distributed since that time. For more information, please call 239-433-2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org.