Behind everything we do, there are people like you who make it happen. When you give, advocate or volunteer, you become a powerful agent of change—helping to improve the odds for children and families throughout our community. And there is no shortage of ways to get involved.
Your involvement helps us provide support to neighbors in our community who need it the most, whether it’s a donation of time or money. With your help, we can continue delivering on the promise of true change in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Give
By supporting United Way Emerald Coast, you strengthen the safety net of programs that help our community today and you invest in truly effective, long-term solutions to our most challenging problems. Your gift will help children be better prepared to enter kindergarten, will ensure seniors have access to healthy foods, and help more families learn to become financially stable. Donations of every amount matter. There are many ways you can make a contribution:
- Donate online
- Text UWEmeraldCoast to 41444
- Give through a workplace campaign
- Download a paper form and mail in your contribution
Advocate
Join the cause and make your voice heard! Whether you’re speaking out to improve education, reaching out to members of Congress, or attending a local city council meeting, you can inspire hope and create opportunities for a better tomorrow. UWEC provides a platform for people to take meaningful action that makes a difference. Together, we can amplify our voices on important community changes.
Here are a few ways you can create social change in your local community:
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Speak Out. Contact your representative about an Education, Income, Health or nonprofit strengthening issue. Find your local and state elected representatives here.
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Register to vote. Your vote is your voice! From your local school board to the U.S. Senate, it’s important to vote in every election. Register yourself to vote here.
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Engage with your community. Host a community conversation with your friends, coworkers or neighbors. Learn about what people say are their aspirations for your community and talk about how you can work together to address challenges.
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Raise Awareness About a Cause. Use social media tools to educate your friends and networks about an issue you care about.
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Discover More About Florida Legislative Activity. Florida's United Ways play a leadership role in advocating for their communities at the State Capitol. Find out more about how they are working to improve the quality of life in Florida.
Volunteer
Volunteering is the heart of what it means to LIVE UNITED. One way to empower the work we do is to volunteer in support of our partner agencies; donate your time and make a difference in the lives of others. When the community is generous, everyone wins. Whether you’re representing a company whose employees want to dedicate their time, or an individual looking to pitch in, we have volunteer opportunities to fit your needs.
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Nonprofit Partner Volunteer Request: Are you a local nonprofit or community-based organization seeking volunteers? Connect with us to find out how United Way Emerald Coast can help meet your volunteer needs.
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Virtual, in-person, and upcoming volunteer opportunities are listed here.
Join a Membership Group
Join a community of passionate individuals committed to creating local change. United Way Emerald Coast membership groups offer meaningful ways to connect, lead, and give back alongside like-minded peers. Whether you're empowering women, engaging young professionals, supporting seniors, or growing as a leader, there's a place for you to make a difference.
Women United is a powerful network dedicated to uplifting and empowering women and girls in Okaloosa and Walton counties. United by purpose, they’re working to break down barriers to mental health education and access, creating a more equitable and supportive future for all.
NextGen United is a vibrant network of young professionals committed to creating an impact. The 5th annual 40 Under 40 Awards will honor emerging leaders who are driving positive change through exceptional leadership, community involvement, and professional accomplishment.
Retire United is all about staying active, connecting, and making a difference, because giving back doesn’t have an age limit. Designed for volunteers aged 55 and better, this program is powered by a federal grant from AmeriCorps Seniors. Retire United connects experienced, passionate individuals with meaningful volunteer, event, and other opportunities that fit their skills, interests, and lifestyle.