About Us
Press Room
Newsletters
August 2010 "What Matters" Newsletter
March 2010 "What Matters" Newsletter
May 2009 "What Matters" Newsletter
Media Releases
July 21, 2010: Volunteer Team will boost recovery efforts in Escambia, Santa Rosa
Feb. 1, 2010: United Way offering free tax preparation for lower income residents
April 7, 2009: United Way of Escambia County accepting grant proposals for emergency crisis assistance and financial stability initiatives
History
The United Way of Escambia County has evolved dramatically since 1924. The organization we know today was first established by seven local citizens as the Community Chest of Escambia County in 1924. Except for a brief closure during Depression years, this community service has operated uninterrupted into the 21st century, becoming the United Fund in 1957, and United Way of Escambia County in 1972.
The United Way of Escambia County's mission is to "Improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community." Annual fundraising campaigns have increased from the initial $30,000 to more than $4 million. Through the decades, the local campaign has partnered with other charitable entities. In 1943, still known as Community Chest, United Way partnered with the War Fund Drive, creating the first link between the local organization and federal employees. Today, United Way of Escambia County is the fiscal agent for the local Florida State Employees Charitable Campaign and the Escarosa Combined Federal Campaign.
Since 1988, the United Way has implemented the policy of funding specific agency programs rather than agencies themselves. Currently, United Way funding supports 42 programs from 29 external agencies. A broad citizen committee carefully monitors results. In 1996, the United Way of Escambia County Foundation was established to generate long-range support for ongoing and future program needs.
United Way of Escambia County's vision is to be an integral leader and valued partner in building a strong, healthy community where people aspire to live and are inspired to give.
Contact Us
For media inquiries, contact Marketing and Communications Director Kris Thoma at 444-7114 or kris@unitedwayescambia.org.
For all other inquiries, contact Office Manager Melissa Lewis at 444-7120 or melissa@unitedwayescambia.org.
