Contact: Kelly Jasen
President & CEO
kelly@united-way.org
850.812.3382
President & CEO
kelly@united-way.org
850.812.3382
United Way Emerald Coast Celebrates Achievements at Annual Meeting
FORT WALTON BEACH, FL – 7/29/2025United Way Emerald Coast (UWEC), a local non-profit dedicated to improving lives and building stronger communities, hosted its Annual Meeting on Tuesday, July 29th at The Place on Beal in Fort Walton Beach. The sold-out event presented by Eglin Federal Credit Union brought together more than 100 stakeholders including donors, volunteers, board members, elected officials, community leaders, and partners.
The evening celebrated UWEC’s achievements from the past year and highlighted the power of collaboration in addressing the region’s most pressing needs. Through compelling stories, meaningful recognition, and a shared vision for the future, the event reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to transparency, impact, and collaboration.
“It’s been a privilege to serve alongside such a mission-driven team,” said outgoing Board Chair Matt Zasada of Carr, Riggs & Ingram. “United Way Emerald Coast is more than an organization; it’s a catalyst for change and a trusted partner in our community. I leave this role feeling proud, inspired, and optimistic about what lies ahead.”
During the program, UWEC unveiled several highlights from the 2024–2025 year, including:
- 17,135 volunteer hours coordinated
- More than 56,000 lives impacted
- More than $700,000 awarded through 63 grants to 34 local vetted non-profit programs
- A total community impact of $2.6 million, an increase of more than $200,000 from the prior year
Several awards were presented, including the President’s Circle, which honors UWEC’s most generous corporate partners. This year’s recipients were Eglin Federal Credit Union and Forever Warriors by Step One Automotive Group, recognized for their outstanding commitment to giving back.
As UWEC looks to the future, the organization remains focused on uniting people and resources to tackle complex challenges and create lasting positive change across Okaloosa and Walton counties.
To learn more about United Way Emerald Coast or get involved, visit www.united-way.org or follow @uwemeraldcoast on social media.
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United Way Emerald Coast is a local, volunteer-governed organization that works with hundreds of partners to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Okaloosa and Walton counties. To drive positive change, United Way Emerald Coast evaluates our community’s diverse needs, mobilizes the caring power of the community, and directs resources to the areas that will have the most positive impact in our community.
UWEC’s Board of Directors accepts the first corporate contribution towards their new fiscal year from Florida Power and Light. From left to right, Erika Peterson, Kelly Jasen, Bernard Johnson, Sheila Fitzgerald, Jessica Leavins, Emily Tash Pickens, Matt Zasada, Jason Fulghum, Clint Aden, Joe Gordon, Hong Potomski, Ed Burns, Jenna Sheffield, Kim Cox, Jason Davis, and Dustin Cosson.
Eglin Federal Credit Union accepts UWEC’s President’s Circle Award, recognizing them for their incredible generosity and partnership. From left to right, Teddie Yellow Bear-Baskin, Gina Denny, Sheila Fitzgerald (incoming UWEC Board Chair), Cathie Staton, Matt Zasada (outgoing UWEC Boad Chair), Kim Nauta, Bron Ringstad, Jerry Williams, Laura Coale, Wendi Davis
Forever Warriors powered by Step One Automotive Group accepts UWEC’s President’s Circle Award highlighting their partnership. From left to right, Sheila Fitzgerald (incoming UWEC Board Chair), Maureen Bierman, Matt Zasada (outgoing UWEC Board Chair)
Cathie Staton, Eglin Federal Credit Union’s President & CEO, offers welcoming remarks as the event’s Presenting Sponsor.
UWEC staff announces $2.6 million impact on Okaloosa and Walton counties in 2024-25. From left to right, Deborah Lawson, Jenn Williamson, Tammy Barrientos, Haley Davenport, and Mia Mortensen.
