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There have been so many incredible representations of leadership at United Way Miami this month. A leader is someone with the capacity to translate vision into reality. The best part? Everybody has the ability to be a leader. From the fantastic leaders of our agency partners to our inspirational Tocqueville Society Grand Reception honorees to a visit from the visionary leader of United Way Worldwide, we have been able to highlight the true meaning of leadership.
As I lead United Way Miami into its 100th year, I am focused on three core initiatives: expanding our UpSkill Miami fund, repositioning United Way Miami’s brand and the implementation of our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan. These focal points are what will solidify United Way Miami as a beacon of hope for the long term.
As we kick off our event season, we are excited to see you at the VeritageMiami event series, starting with the Wine and Food Experience on March 6. These are busy yet exciting times at United Way Miami and I look forward to all that Spring will bring.
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Symeria T. Hudson
President and CEO, United Way Miami
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United Way Worldwide President and CEO to Visit United Way Miami
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United Way Miami is thrilled to welcome Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, to our headquarters in Miami on Monday, February 26. Angela's esteemed leadership as the first Black woman to helm United Way Worldwide and Symeria Hudson's role as the first Black woman to lead United Way Miami collectively mark a historic milestone in nonprofit leadership. As we celebrate 100 years of serving Miami-Dade County, this convergence of two trailblazing leaders during Black History Month underscores the profound impact of diversity in shaping our shared future.
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In honor of Black History Month, we celebrate some of our agency partners led by Black CEOs, dedicated to serving the Black community through vital programs in education, financial stability and health. These organizations play a crucial role in strengthening families and uplifting our community. Learn more about these impactful programs funded by United Way Miami.
Belafonte Tacolcy, Shownda Pagan
Big Brothers Big Sisters, Gale Nelson
Center for Family & Child Enrichment, Delores Dunn
Greater Miami Service Corps, Deborah Dorsett
New Horizons Community Mental Health Center, Michele Wyatt-Sweeting
Overtown Youth Center, Tina Brown
Sant La Haitian Neighborhood Center, Gepsie M. Metellus
The Family Christian Association of America, Terry Joseph, Jr.
Urban League of Greater Miami, Talmadge W. Fair
YWCA South Florida, Kerry-Ann Royes
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Tocqueville Society Grand Reception 2024
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United Way Miami’s most dedicated supporters recently came together in the spirit of giving at the annual Tocqueville Society Grand Reception. The evening allowed us to honor some true standouts of this society with awards presented by United Way Tocqueville Award Chairs Jayne Abess and Andy Ansin.
The Grant family received this year’s Tocqueville Award for Outstanding Philanthropy. Their leadership and service to United Way Miami, as well as many other organizations and initiatives in our region, has had a positive and lasting effect on the community. The Next-Gen Philanthropist Award was given to Austin Hollo, a visionary young leader and compassionate philanthropist active in several South Florida organizations.
Jayne and Leonard Abess hosted this spectacular event, which was generously sponsored by Van Cleef & Arpels and City National Bank.
Enjoy our full event recap, as well as videos highlighting our 2024 honorees.
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United Way Centennials Commemorated in Tallahassee
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United Way Miami celebrated our centennial with three other Florida United Ways in Tallahassee earlier this month. A two-day event was held, beginning with a legislative reception on February 13 and culminating in a very special recognition during the Senate Session on February 14. Our President and CEO, Symeria Hudson, was present for the occasion, accompanied by members of our Community Impact team, Miami-Dade Delegation and other United Way champions across the state to mark this momentous milestone. This kicked off what will be a year-long celebration for United Way Miami's 100 years of service.
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Get Ready for Tax Season
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Tax season is here, and United Way Miami is proud to offer free tax preparation through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program in partnership with Miami Tax Pros.
In 2023, together with Miami Tax Pros, we:
• Helped nearly 7,270 Miami-Dade residents receive tax refunds.
• Saved individuals and families $1.4 million in tax preparation fees.
• Ensured refunds of over $8 million.
• Assisted residents in securing nearly $3 million in Earned Income Tax Credits.
With nearly half a million Miami-Dade families struggling financially, our free tax services provide crucial support. Check out our toolkit and help us spread the word.
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VeritageMiami 2024 Event Series
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The VeritageMiami Wine and Food Experience returns March 6 for its second year. Wine and food lovers will embark on a delightful journey for the palate on the historic Dinner Key in Coconut Grove. Wineries from every corner of the globe share their finest bottles, while local eateries offer up their favorite bites. Guests can mingle, chat and vote for their favorite winery and culinary purveyor – all in support of changing lives in Miami.
The Interactive Dinner event will take place April 19. This immersive experience will lead guests on a unique culinary adventure featuring celebrity chef Jeremy Ford, Bravo “Top Chef” Season 13 winner and James Beard Award nominee, whose work is already familiar to South Florida food lovers through his Michelin-starred restaurants.
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Community Partners Surpass Fundraising Goals
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United Way is proud to have community partners dedicated to building a stronger Miami for all. Our longtime partners, Ryder System, Inc. and Jackson Health System, exceeded their fundraising goals for the United Way Employee Giving Campaigns. Ryder even set a record with a $1.1 million donation, showcasing their extraordinary dedication and commitment to philanthropic giving.
With the participation of 84 partners, United Way’s Employee Giving Campaigns not only showcase the generosity of individual companies but also inspire a sense of purpose and unity among employees, creating a lasting positive impact for both the business and our community.
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Championing Early Education
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Center for Excellence in Early Education Now Accepting Applications
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Our nationally recognized United Way Center for Excellence in Early Education Demonstration School, Educare of Miami-Dade is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year.
Since its founding in 2007, our Demonstration School has prepared 759 young children for kindergarten, fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. With support for families and a model environment for early education, we stimulate young minds, nurture growth and prepare children to leap into learning with joy and curiosity.
Preschool spots are available, so please help us spread the word. If you, or someone you know is interested in learning more, schedule a tour of our center. Spots will fill up fast!
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The Early Science Initiative's Science Club!
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United Way Miami’s Center for Excellence in Early Education Demonstration School, Educare of Miami-Dade is thrilled to be selected to participate in the Early Science Initiative's Science Club: Start Your Engines. This program offers an innovative model of professional learning, providing monthly open-ended provocations and resources to support our teachers with knowledge and resources to unleash the power of science in early childhood. Throughout the program, our preschool teachers engage in online communities of practice, sharing insights and best practices to elevate the quality of early science education in our classrooms and beyond.
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Events & Volunteer Opportunities
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#StrongerMiami
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United Way Miami · The Ansin Building · 3250 SW 3rd Ave · Miami, FL 33129-2712 · USA
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