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We’re proud to share that 6th annual Change Maker Impact Awards were a resounding success!
Held on January 23 at the Orlando Museum of Art, and hosted by WFTV Channel 9 anchor Daralene Jones, this inspiring event recognized individuals and groups who are making significant contributions to the Central Florida community.
change makers
The LIVE UNITED Impact Awards were presented to five extraordinary Change Makers:
Live United Impact Award for Leadership: Linda Landman Gonzalez, Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, for her significant contributions to Central Florida through her professional and personal contributions to numerous boards, committees, and events in support of important causes. Award made possible by Orlando Magic.
Live United Impact Award for Advocacy: Donna Wyche, Orange County Government, for her career of advocacy particularly in the area of mental health. Award made possible by No Limit Counseling and Education.
Live United Impact Award for Children: Gary Cain, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, for a career of caring for the well-being and development of children in our community. Award made possible by KPMG.
Live United Award for Equity: Aeras Foundation for their work to close the digital divide. Award made possible by Full Sail University.
Live United Impact Award for Health: Orange County Public Schools for recognizing food insecurity and investing in solutions to ensure no child goes hungry. Award made possible by HCA Healthcare.
The five honorees selected from the Community Choice nominations included:
Unsung Hero: Lashea Reaves, 8 Cents in a Jar, a nonprofit organization serving Central Florida to create opportunities for students in marginalized communities to achieve intergenerational mobility through financial education. Award made possible by Truist.
Women United Impact Award: Mia Poinsette, Poinsette Foundation, for her work in uplifting children and families in Central Florida. Award made possible by Avenue Z.
Mission United Impact Award: John Gionet, Orange County Mayor’s Veterans Council and retired Marine, for his work ensuring family members of Veterans who have passed away receive the benefits they deserve. Award made possible by WFTV.
Emerging Leader Impact Award: Samuel Vilchez Santiago, American Business Immigration Coalition, for his work in supporting immigrant families in Central Florida. Award made possible by Bank of America.
Change Maker Junior: Kaylan Patel, 17-year-old student, for the work of his nonprofit Lending Hand Global Foundation to help Central Florida children see beyond their circumstances and dream big. Award made possible by Suncoast Credit Union.
As the ceremony came to a close, our CEO Jeff Hayward took to the stage to announce Heart of Florida United Way’s 85th anniversary celebration, taking place all through 2024. This year more than any year before, is the year to roll up your sleeves and volunteer, make a donation, and stand up and speak out. It’s time to LIVE UNITED … because United starts with YOU.
For more on the 6th annual Change Maker Impact Awards, watch our video recap of the event. Thank you to everyone who attended, and congratulations again to all this year’s honorees!
