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a heart of florida united way film
“know your place”
Heart of Florida United Way proudly presents “Know Your Place” — a deeply introspective film that illuminates realities in Central Florida’s not-so-distant past.
“Know Your Place” shares the personal stories of Central Floridians who have faced racism, segregation, and bias throughout their lives.
Created by Macbeth Studio, this documentary features prominent community voices like Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, State Senator Geraldine Thompson, Former Ninth Circuit Chief Judge Belvin Perry, and more.
about us
WE ARE CHANGE MAKERS
We are believers in a better tomorrow. We are advocates for those in need and connectors of those who want to help. We LIVE UNITED with our neighbors and partners to make the biggest possible difference in Central Florida.
And we’ve been doing it for over eight decades. But our 85-year story is just the beginning. Our next chapter will be bolder, brighter, and better than ever.
At Heart of Florida United Way, we are standing up so that everyone has what they need to survive and thrive. And we’re doing it together because United starts with YOU.
WHAT WE DO
Uniting People and Organizations
Heart of Florida United Way improves the lives of individuals and families, building stronger communities by uniting people and organizations to create measurable results and a lasting impact.
BY THE NUMBERS
Our IMPACT
Together, we’re changing the world.
When we LIVE UNITED, we can accomplish anything.
Data based on the HFUW 2021-2022 Annual Report
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How One Email Changed a Life: Taraj and Kielar’s Story
Facing a difficult situation, Taraj reached out to Heart of Florida United Way for utility assistance and found a dedicated case manager named Kielar. Her support went far beyond keeping the lights on.
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A Bridge to Success: How Destination Graduation Helped Kodi Cross the Finish Line
Kodi Wallace, a student and employee at Seminole State College, faced a daunting financial obstacle in her final semester: She had exceeded the required credit hours for her program and was at risk of losing financial aid. Kodi found a solution through Destination Graduation.
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A Veteran’s Lifeline: The Power of the Mission United RideShare Program
Discover how a simple Lyft Pass Code program has significantly impacted the life of a disabled Air Force Veteran, provided essential transportation and potentially saved his life.
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A Warm Smile and a Big Help: How Shantel Smith Persisted to Stay in School
Shantel Smith had always prided herself on being financially responsible, carefully budgeting every dollar to make ends meet. But despite her best efforts, life threw her a curveball. When her car broke down, the repair costs were more than she could afford. The weight of unplanned expenses loomed large, and Shantel faced the difficult reality…
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Paying it Forward: The Impact of Community Support
Jose Luis Aponte and Alis Orozxo, Central Florida parents struggling to make ends meet, found hope and support through our Community Baby Shower. Inspired by the help they received, they volunteered their time to assist other expectant parents. Discover their inspiring story and learn how you can help build a stronger community for families in…
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More Than Supplies: How a Community Baby Shower Rekindled Hope for Tamara, a Single Mom in Need
Single mom-to-be Tamara Allen expected to collect just a handful of free things for her future son Nolan at Heart of Florida United Way’s Community Baby Shower. But the event offered her something far more valuable: hope for the future. Prior to relocating to Florida, Tamara had a stable job at the U.S Postal Service…
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Thriving Through Crisis: Jessenia’s Story of Courage and Determination
Explore how HFUW offers crucial support to families like Jessenia’s during times of crisis, highlighting our commitment to resilience and community empowerment.
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A Journey of Discovery and Support: How the Gonzalez Family Found Hope with Help Me Grow
Discover the inspiring journey of the Gonzalez family through Heart of Florida United Way’s Help Me Grow program and learn how early intervention and community resources transformed their lives.
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Breaking Barriers: Kim Ranachowski’s Path to Success With Destination Graduation
Discover the remarkable transformation of Kim Ranachowski, who overcame unforeseen financial obstacles to realize her dream of becoming a physical therapist assistance, all thanks to the invaluable assistance of Heart of Florida United Way’s Destination Graduation program. Witness firsthand the profound impact of community support in reshaping destinies.
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LaToya’s Story: HFUW’s OUC Project CARE Program Shine’s a Light in LaToya’s Life
Meet LaToya Pugh, a single mother of two daughters who called Heart of Florida United Way’s 211 Information and Referral Crisis Line in her darkest hour.
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Jack’s Story: a homeless veteran finds stability with mission united
It is not acceptable for anyone to be living in his or her car, let alone a 73-year-old Vietnam veteran and his wife.
LaTest NEWS
Our blog
Your 2025 Hurricane Season Guide
Support Parents in Central Florida: Join Our Community Baby Showers presented by Adventhealth for women
Forging Fearless Futures: The 18th Annual Women United Luncheon
Recognizing Excellence: Highlights from the 7th Annual Change Maker Impact Awards
UPCOMING EVENTS
featured events
Mission United Financial Literacy Workshop
2025 Legislative Recap
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
HOW WE LIVE UNITED
Donate Today
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
United starts with YOU. Donate to Heart of Florida United Way and be a force for good in Central Florida. Together, we can create positive change and transform lives. Give now, and let’s make our community stronger, healthier, and happier — one donation at a time.
WE SERVE WITH INTEGRITY
Each year, Heart of Florida United Way undergoes an audit and files Form 990 reviewed by the Heart of Florida United Way Audit and Ethics Committee and approved by our Board of Directors. We proudly maintain a Platinum rating Candid, a four-star rating from from Charity Navigator, and are validated by the Central Florida Foundation.
a special thank you
top partners
Our partners (2023-2024) are essential to Heart of Florida United Way’s success in the community. We are grateful for their ongoing support and partnership.
