​Florida Keys – United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) announces the departure of Leah Stockton, Keys Area President, as she steps down from her role on March 4. A dedicated leader and advocate for the Florida Keys community, Leah has been instrumental in expanding United Way’s impact and strengthening its presence in Monroe County.
 
Leah first joined United Way in 2017, just weeks after Hurricane Irma. She immediately led relief efforts, successfully mobilizing and distributing over $1.7 million in recovery funds to support Monroe County residents. Following the 2020 merger of United Way of Collier County and United Way of the Florida Keys, Leah continued to guide local efforts as the Keys Area President, spearheading initiatives that improved lives across the community.
 
Under Leah’s leadership, UWCK expanded its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, doubling the number of residents receiving free tax preparation services. She also played a key role in growing the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, tripling the number of Keys children receiving free books. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Leah worked tirelessly to coordinate response efforts, advocating for and securing resources for local nonprofits and families in need.
 
One of Leah’s most remarkable achievements was her role in helping to secure a $3.5 million grant as the catalyst for Mission: Iconic Reefs, an ambitious initiative focused on restoring seven of the Florida Keys’ most significant coral reef sites. She has since overseen UWCK’s marine science education grants, scholarship programs, and international partnerships advancing coral restoration and conservation. Over the last five years, she has also led UWCK’s partnership with the United Arab Emirates, overseeing coral restoration funding and spearheading marine science education and community engagement initiatives.
 
“Leah’s passion for serving the community and her unwavering dedication to improving lives in the Keys has left a lasting mark,” said Tiffani Mensch, President and CEO of UWCK. “Her leadership has strengthened our organization, expanded critical programs, and fostered partnerships that will have a lasting impact. We are deeply grateful for all she has accomplished and wish her the very best in her next chapter.”
 
For more information about United Way of Collier and the Keys and its ongoing initiatives, visit uwcollierkeys.org.

​Expanding Educational Opportunities to Create the Next Generation of Reef Stewards Florida Keys — United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) is reminding schools, educators, and organizations that the application deadline for the annual Marine Science Education Grant is fast approaching! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand marine science and conservation programs for students in the Florida Keys. Now in its fourth year, UWCK’s five-year commitment aims to provide $180,000 to schools and educational facilities throughout the Keys. In the 2023-2024 cycle, a total of $41,729 was awarded to 17 recipients. “Our kayak cleanup on the Fury was incredible! We cannot thank UWCK enough for such a wonderful experience,” said Amy Harper, a fifth-grade teacher at Poinciana Elementary School. Through the grant, 65 students participated in the kayak cleanup, gaining a deeper understanding of marine conservation. “Seeing the amount of trash, boat rope, and fishing line made them reflect on the long-term effects of careless fishing,” Harper added. The Marine Science Education Grant program is part of UWCK's ongoing mission to create the next generation of reef stewards, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates. Grants of up to $2,500 are available per application for Monroe County School District schools and Monroe County-based marine science nonprofit education centers or organizations. Additionally, up to $500 per application is available for Monroe County licensed childcare facilities and preschools. Grants can cover expenses such as transportation, materials, curriculum, supplies, and more, helping to bring these vital marine science programs to life. Applications are due by September 30th, 2024. For more information on the grant application, visit https://uwcollierkeys.org/mseg/. Pictured: Poinciana Elementary School 5th grade students participating in a kayak cleanup.

​United Way of Collier and the Keys Continues to Support Local Food Pantries Florida Keys – United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) is proud to announce its continued commitment to local food pantries, fulfilling promises made during the 2024 “Feed the Keys-Be Like Mike” initiative. This summer, UWCK has distributed additional funds to assist in feeding families, providing crucial support to those in need.

A total of $3,000 in extra funds has been allocated among seven local food pantries: Burton Memorial United Methodist Church, First Baptist Church Islamorada, Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, Keys Area Interdenominational Resources (KAIR), Keys Community Church of Big Pine Key, Metropolitan Community Church Key West, and S.O.S. Foundation.

Leah Stockton, UWCK Keys Area President, emphasized the significance of this initiative: "Supporting our local food pantries is vital to ensuring that no family in our community goes hungry. UWCK is dedicated to making a difference and providing essential resources to those in need."

During the third annual “Feed the Keys” in May 2024, an impressive 6,210 pounds of food were donated at three locations across the Upper, Middle, and Lower Keys.

"Feed the Keys" is the largest community-wide food drive in the area, focusing on increasing nutritious food supplies at local food pantries. With 43% of residents living paycheck-to-paycheck, this initiative is crucial in alleviating food insecurity. Held in memory of beloved Monroe County commissioner, restaurateur, and UWCK Local Advisory Board member "Mangrove Mike” Forster, the drive celebrates his dedication to supporting Keys residents.

​This year, UWCK strategically moved "Feed the Keys” to May, rallying community support for Monroe County families and children who lack access to school-provided meals during the summer months.

Florida Keys – United Way of Collier and the Keys (UWCK) is thrilled to announce the opening of applications for its Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship. This initiative is designed to support Monroe County residents who are pursuing degrees in marine science and/or marine technology-related fields. Now entering its third year, this scholarship program reflects UWCK's unwavering commitment to sustainability, ensuring that educational opportunities are intricately linked with conservation efforts in the Florida Keys.

In the 2023-2024 academic year, UWCK awarded scholarships to 4 deserving recipients, and 10 to date, underscoring its dedication to fostering education and environmental stewardship. Now, UWCK invites new applicants to participate in this transformative opportunity, starting today through April 17.

A dedicated Scholarship Committee will review applications, considering factors such as educational achievements, career aspirations, involvement in school activities, references, and financial need. Recipients will have the chance to reapply annually as they progress in their educational journey.

Through this initiative, UWCK aims to not only support educational pursuits but also to bolster local employment opportunities in marine science, contributing to the ongoing reef restoration efforts, including NOAA’s Mission: Iconic Reefs.

"United Way of Collier and the Keys is thrilled to offer this scholarship program, empowering residents to pursue their passion for marine science while contributing to the preservation of our precious marine ecosystems," said Jessica Dockery, Reef Revitalization Project Liaison at United Way of Collier and the Keys.

​For more information about the Marine Science Educational Advancement Scholarship, to apply, or for any questions, please visit htps://uwcollierkeys.org/marine-science-scholarship/ or contact Jessica Dockery at [email protected] 

Florida Keys – 2022’s inaugural “Be Like Mike” week was a huge success, so there’s no better way to continue Mike’s legacy than to keep it going in 2023. “Mangrove” Mike Forster was a Monroe County Commissioner and restauranteur. He was also a member of the United Way of Collier and the Keys’ Local Advisory Board at the time of his passing in 2021.

“Mike loved our community and lived to serve others,” said Leah Stockton, Keys Area President, United Way of Collier and the Keys. “He’d be so happy to see volunteers committing these small acts of kindness, whether it be donating a canned good or picking up litter.”

There are countless ways to help, but this year, UWCK is partnering with Reef Relief for “Be Kind to our Shoreline,” which provides volunteers different cleanup locations. For the second year, UWCK will partner with Burton Memorial Church in Tavernier, Keys Area Interdenominational Resource in Marathon and Star of the Sea Foundation in Key West for a food drive. The donations made in Mike’s name will honor his biggest contribution to our community: feeding the Keys in times of need.

Be Kind to our Shoreline                                     Feed the Keys
*Volunteers needed for shoreline beach cleanup
OCT 16: Indian Key Fills Cleanup
OCT 20: Burton Memorial Church (Tavernier)
OCT 18: Long Key State Park KAIR (Marathon)
OCT 19: White Street Pier & Higgs Beach Star of the Sea (Key West)


While you’re out spreading good, you are encouraged to use the hashtag #BELIKEMIKE on social media. More details are available at https://uwcollierkeys.org/belikemike/ and https://www.facebook.com/groups/belikemike2023 

United Way of Collier and the Keys is thrilled to announce the redesign of its programs team, bolstering its commitment to uplifting communities and providing vital support to those in need. This strategic restructuring aims to fortify the nonprofit's impact on the community, focusing on more direct assistance, comprehensive case management, disaster response and sustainable, long-term solutions.

Leading this dynamic team is Ashley Jones, a seasoned professional with a passion for community development and a track record of driving positive change. With her extensive experience, Ms. Jones is poised to steer the United Way towards even greater heights of effectiveness and outreach.

Frances Ribot assumes the pivotal role of Director of Community Impact, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a history of successful program management. Her vision and dedication will be instrumental in aligning the organization's initiatives with the evolving needs of the community. Assisting Ms. Ribot in this critical mission is Carolina Heiser, whose expertise in community engagement and strategic planning will be invaluable in executing the team’s initiatives with precision and care. Tiffany Pellicier will serve as Monroe County’s sole case manager, helping people in need across the Upper and Lower Keys.

The redesigned programs team is poised to elevate United Way of Collier and the Keys' impact through a multi-faceted approach:
1. Direct Assistance: Providing immediate support (211, KeysHelp.org) to individuals and families facing challenges. 2. Comprehensive Case Management: A personalized approach will address the unique circumstances of each individual, connecting them with the right resources and services.
3. Disaster Response: We’ve been there to help you after COVID-19, Hurricanes Irma and Ian, and the team will continue to be there. The goal is to ensure that affected individuals, families and communities receive timely and effective aid in the short-term and throughout their long-term recovery.

"We are incredibly excited about the enhanced capabilities of our programs team and the potential for even greater impact in Collier and Monroe Counties," said Tiffani Mensch, President and CEO of United Way of Collier and the Keys.

This strategic restructuring is a testament to United Way of Collier and the Keys' unwavering commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities. With the expanded programs team, the organization is poised to tackle the most pressing issues with renewed vigor and determination.