Blog Post By Candace Rotolo
United Way Suncoast marked another year of impact and progress at its 3rd Annual R.I.S.E. Luncheon on Tuesday, April 1. The event brought together business leaders, community advocates and local changemakers to celebrate the organization’s efforts in elevating educational opportunities, empowering families through financial stability, and enhancing lives through community resiliency.
R.I.S.E., which stands for Reach, Investment, Support, and Empower, encapsulates UWS’ mission as it enters its 101st year in 2025. The nonprofit continues to serve communities across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties by partnering with local organizations to create lasting change.
The luncheon opened with an inspiring performance by Inkera Jackman, a senior at Blake High School, who sang Andra Day’s hit song, Rise Up. The song, a powerful anthem of perseverance and resilience, mirrored UWS’ own motto: “United We Rise, United We Win.” Jackman himself is a testament to those values. After initially being denied admission to Morehouse College, he traveled to Atlanta as part of the Men of Tomorrow program. There, he met with the college’s admissions director, who recognized his determination and offered him admission. Jackman also recently learned he has received a full-ride scholarship and will join the school’s renowned Glee Club. He plans to study political science and pre-law while minoring in music.
“My journey has taught me that ‘no’ is never the final answer,” Jackman said. “It’s OK to be tenacious and go after your dreams.”
Jenkins provides inspiration
His story served as a powerful reminder of UWS’ commitment to educational opportunities and youth success – just a few of the core pillars of United Way Suncoast’s work.
The luncheon also featured an engaging conversation with Howard Jenkins, the retired chairman and CEO of Publix Super Markets, Inc., who spoke with Jessica Blume, a retired vice chairman of Deloitte and a member of Publix’s Board of Directors. Jenkins, the son of Publix’s legendary founder, shared insights on his journey from bagging groceries at age 16 to leading the company through a period of rapid expansion and innovation.
CEO shares insight on progress
Publix remains one of UWS’ strongest corporate partners. Through its ongoing support, the grocery chain has helped fund thousands of charities and initiatives that make a tangible difference in the community.
“Through our contributions to UWS, we can reach so many different charities and truly make an impact,” Jenkins said.
United Way Suncoast CEO, Jessica Muroff, shared some of the nonprofits significant achievements in 2024. UWS invested $1.8 Mm into improving kindergarten readiness, increasing grade level reading and removing barriers to education. The organization has helped more than 6,000 third graders reach or progress toward reading at grade level. Additionally, UWS raised $1.2 million for its Disaster Community Fund, which supported thousands of residents recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The organization’s efficiency ensures that for every dollar donated, $1.75 is reinvested into the community.
As UWS prepares to enter its next century of service, the R.I.S.E. Luncheon underscored the organization’s unwavering dedication to building a stronger, more resilient community. With the support of individuals, businesses, and community partners, United Way Suncoast continues to prove that when united, we rise—and together, we win.
