The United Way of Indian River County hosted an evening of gratitude for its Alexis de Tocqueville Society donors at a cocktail reception at 21st Amendment Distillery to celebrate the impact of their generosity.
Meredith Egan, UWIRC CEO, extended heartfelt thanks to AdT co-chairs Sharon Northrup and Fritz Blaicher.
“Under their outstanding leadership de Tocqueville Society has collectively raised over $780,000 to date. We fully expect to meet and exceed last year’s results,” said Egan, adding that AdT members contributed nearly 45 percent of the annual campaign last year.
“Unlike other communities that have strong corporate donors, 45 percent of our annual campaign is made up of individuals, people like you. Your generosity ensures that our local providers can focus on their vital work and meet the pressing needs. Beyond funding our critical programs, you are investing in initiatives that provide legal aid, improvements to health, and affect affordable housing crisis in our community,” continued Egan.
The core mission of United Way supports education, financial stability and health through a network of 48 critical programs and partners. Egan highlighted the “multiplier effect” of donations, amplifying its impact across the community and reaching one in four residents.
“We are implementing very effective solutions,” said Egan.
She cited the Access to Justice program, which has served 660 people since January and more than 2,500 since its inception.
“We are creating sustainable change. We have always been recognized as our community’s problem solver, convener and think tank, but our collaborative approach ensures that we maximize our resources to meet the greatest needs,” said Egan.
“When Hurricane Milton struck, we didn’t just react. We sprang into action,” said Egan.
United Way leveraged its network to install 350 tarps, coordinated hundreds of volunteers, and established the Multi-Agency Resource Center at the United Against Poverty UP Center, working alongside FEMA. They served 1,752 people, distributed some $120,000 in food vouchers and $100,000 in essential products.
“No other organization could have done that alone. Our network is what made that happen,” said Egan.
ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families were disproportionately affected. Already living paycheck to paycheck, she said they were financially devastated by power outages, missed workdays and unexpected expenses.
“Recovery isn’t about restoring what is lost. It’s about building a stronger, more resilient community. We continue to connect, convene, and leverage partnerships to ensure that in times of crisis and in times of calm, we are ready to serve,” said Egan.
Bill Siegel, vice president and general manager of WPTV/WHDT, echoed the sentiment of partnership, describing the unprecedented tornado outbreak as a devastating day across their five-county viewing area. WPTV partnered with United Way for relief efforts, recognizing the organization’s connectedness to the community and ability to mobilize resources quickly.
“We know the United Way will continue to be there every step of the way, and WPTV is here to stay with you all,” Siegel added.
As a token of appreciation, guests received a copy of Bill Gates’ memoir, “Source Code.” Egan said Gates’ mother served on the United Way Worldwide board, and the book reflects on the family’s deep roots in philanthropy, with proceeds supporting local United Ways.
Jeff Palleschi, owner of 21st Amendment Distillery, recounted how Egan and her team acted swiftly to help the local Veterans Club secure funding for a new storm-damaged roof, praising the United Way as an “incredible partner” doing “terrific work.”
“Thank you for what you all do in the community, and God bless all of you,” said Palleschi in a toast to United Way leadership, the donors, and their collective spirit of giving.
For more information, visit UnitedWayIRC.org.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
