Veterans Day is an opportunity to recognize the men and women who have served our country and reflect on the importance of supporting them long after their military service ends. For some veterans, the transition to civilian life brings unexpected challenges, including housing instability, financial hardship, grief and difficulty navigating available resources. Through the Florida Veterans Support Line (FVSL), United Way of West Florida helps veterans and their loved ones find support, connect with community resources and know they don't have to face difficult circumstances alone.

You have more than 25 years of experience in business development, philanthropy, and communications. What first drew you to this line of work, and what has kept you passionate about it? 

United Way of West Florida’s Recovery Fund has surpassed $325,000, with a goal of raising $500,000 to support long-term recovery efforts across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

When Hurricane Isaias swept through Northwest Florida, it left families across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties facing property damage, unexpected expenses and uncertainty about what comes next. As residents continue working to recover, United Way of West Florida (UWWF) is bringing the community together to help ensure local recovery efforts have the support they need.

For those who may not know, what does a typical day look like for you as UWWF’s 211 Resource Manager? 

Day to day varies based on where we are in the month! I spend the beginning of the month working on reporting and throughout the month working with making sure things are updated in our database and networking with the community!

What is something about 211 that you wish more people in our community knew? 

United Way of West Florida raises more than $200,000 for local recovery efforts and partners with Cat Country 98.7 and WEAR ABC 3 for an all-day fundraiser.

Since Hurricane Isaias made landfall on October 9, 211 Northwest Florida has experienced a 437% increase in call volume as residents seek help with housing, utilities, food and other essential needs. United Way of West Florida (UWWF) continues to connect residents with available resources while coordinating community support for the storm’s ongoing impact in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Federal disaster assistance does not begin automatically after a storm. Here are details about how programs are activated and where to find reliable updates.

Know What Is Currently Available

A common rumor after a disaster is that FEMA Individual Assistance and D-SNAP are already active locally.

How did you get started at UWWF and why did you want to work here?

Prevention Begins with Connection

September is Suicide Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about suicide and remind people that support is available. When we talk about suicide prevention, the conversation often centers on teenagers and adults. But children can struggle with their mental health, too.

Healthy Schools Escambia Program Coordinator, Brentwood Elementary School