The Free Application For Federal Student Aid can be a key step to economic mobility entering college and financial stability after college. Watch as Leap Tampa Bay's Chuck Tiernan and PlanIt Sarasota's Thomas Williams explain.

Anonymously picking up meals in a car line or embracing the choices in a food pantry? St. Pete Free Clinic is expanding both options to address food insecurity. Watch as SPFC CEO Jennifer Yeagley elaborates on the mission of this strategic community partner.

As we begin to emerge from the height of the pandemic, United Way Suncoast's Young Leadership Society will transition from virtual to in-person events. Watch as 2022 YLS chair and Thomas Howell Ferguson's Matt Walker explains.

Juanita Suber and Golden Generations not only helps young at-risk girls, but it puts this new generation of women in place to help those in their twilight years. Watch as she explains the magic.

More than 100 fun-filled activities aimed at celebrating learning? What's not to love. Watch as The Patterson Foundation's Beth Duda explains the remarkable energy the Suncoast Campaign for Grade-Level Reading is putting behind the upcoming Remake Learning Days event series.

When Steve and Carolyn learned that 50 percent of Manatee County’s students didn’t read on grade level, they didn’t shrug their shoulders, they didn’t decry the school system, they didn’t blame teachers or parents. They went to work.

As tax day nears, United Way Suncoast's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance programs continues to do all it can to help filers from low and moderate income homes. Watch as senior financial stability manager breaks it all down.

As we wrap up Women's History Month, we're reminded that women have played a critical role in building and supporting United Way Suncoast. Alex Sink is certainly one of those contributors. Watch as she shares her inspiration and talks about a special United Way Suncoast Tocqueville Society breakfast coming up next month.

United Way Suncoast's 30th Week of Caring, a part of Global Volunteer Month, will include Gradnation, a student-led summit that will allow us to better understand what they've endured over the last two years. Watch to learn how you can get involved, or visit https://www.volunteersuncoast.org/weekofcaring

Kalea Lake considers the lessons she learned in the United Way Suncoast CNA Training Program to be a blessing. Watch as she shares her thoughts and learn when a new cohort is beginning for candidates.

United Way Suncoast's commitment to diversity includes delivering services to the area's burgeoning Haitian community. Take a look to learn more about a special effort in Bradenton.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Two of our very own team members will be honored at a special event. Watch as we celebrate the work of Paula Kay and Dr. Jeffery Johnson.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

In our inaugural Spanish language Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast donor stewardship manager Jessica Rojas and Preserve Vision family services manager Pilar Bradley share an emotional story about the importance of vision screening. Prepare to be inspired. (Turn on captions for English translation.)

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Verdia Anderson says, “I don’t know what I would do without Seniors in Service." The Foster Grandparent volunteer works with Potter Elementary students and says the experience has helped her deal with a sense of isolation. Watch as she shines on this Suncoast Snapshot.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Operation Graduate alumnus Jasmine Pollock is thriving at Warner University with her sights set on becoming a sportscaster. Watch as she explains how United Way Suncoast elevated her efforts, and offers a Super Bowl prediction.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

It's National Earned Income Tax Credit Day, a day to celebrate lifting families and children out of poverty. Watch as longtime United Way Suncoast volunteer Betsy King explains.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

United Way Suncoast and the DeSoto Family Center are United 4 Literacy. Watch as Kathy Severson and Alma Ovalle explain how we're helping children and families.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Emily Cancela is ready to take off after completing Certified Nursing Assistant training with the help of United Way Suncoast. Watch as she details all she gained from the course, including greater confidence.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Serving in United Way Suncoast's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program inspires Debbie Douglas. Watch as she shares her passion and explains why you too should volunteer.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

Javante Scott always possessed a vision for his future, but a United Way Suncoast program sharpened his focus and helped him land a job with the Clearwater Police Department. Watch as Javante explains.

To donate, text UWSRISE to 41444.

The need remains great for those grappling with food insecurity. Watch as All Faiths Food Bank CEO Sandra Frank explains why her organization's food distribution set new records this holiday season.

If you're a nonprofit looking to tap into a potential pool of $20 million in grants from United Way Suncoast, you still have time. Watch as UWS' Josh Dunn explains.

Teaching students the importance of giving stands as one life's most important lessons. Manatee County School District's Kelli Kennedy has helped do just that as the employee giving campaign chair. Watch as Kelli explains how much it means to touch the live of kids.

How can your Giving Tuesday donations help United Way Suncoast? We explain with the help of two special guests, including a bright-eyed middle schooler.

For Matthew Case, seeing was believing. Once he witnessed his Manatee County Government colleagues giving time, talent and treasure to United Way Suncoast, he couldn't help but do more. Watch as Matthew explains why he's inspired to keep elevating the mission.

On Veterans Day, we want all the veterans out there and all those who support veterans that they can find help through 2-1-1. Crisis Center of Tampa Bay CEO Clara Reynolds offers a quick explanation.

United Way Suncoast didn't tap Jason Hartigan to be a site coordinator for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, but when duty called, Hartigan answered the bell. Join in as Jason describes his "award-winning" experience.

Young professionals, listen up. United Way Suncoast's YLS offers grand opportunities to connect and make a difference. YLS chair Kiana Romeo explains the benefits and shares how you can join this influential organization for just $1 a day.

Many may take having a bank account for granted, but for BankOn Suncoast account holders, the program has proven to be life altering. On National Get Smart About Credit Day, Goodwill Manasota employee Melinda Orona explains how a BankOn account from Chase has brought her greater financial stability.

United Way Suncoast Tocqueville member Eddie Perez-Ruberte shares why he's inspired to give to the organization. His story will inspire you.

Columbia Restaurant Group President Richard Gonzmart is all too familiar with the challenges of dyslexia, but he refers to it as a super power. Watch as Gonzmart talks about his recent support of a new United Way Suncoast partnership that aims to help dyslexic students, and why philanthropy is a way of life for him.

Imagination Station Learning Center teacher Kodi Strickland excitedly arises every day to help guide young minds as a VPK instructor, and United Way Suncoast helps her achieve success with its Quality Childcare Initiative. Take a listen to learn more about QCI and Kodi’s motivation.

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Florida Blue, University Area CDC, Bay Area Legal Services, Gulfcoast Legal Services

In our continuing discussion about evictions, we ask a panel of experts to forecast how the crisis may develop in the coming months. Policy changes that will go into effect next week may heighten the need for assistance from agencies like United Way Suncoast and Florida Blue, who have partnered to help community members facing eviction.

Join us every Thursday for a new edition of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Florida Blue, Bay Area Legal Services, University Area CDC, Gulfcoast Legal Services

Evictions create difficult situations and have spiked since the beginning of the pandemic. On this week's Suncoast Snapshot, we discuss how United Way Suncoast and Florida Blue have partnered to help residents facing this growing crisis.

Join us every Thursday for a new edition of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Dr. Sharon Jefferson, Founder/President of Rosalyn Walton Education and Enrichment Services, Inc.

This week Ernest is joined by Dr. Sharon Jefferson to talk about #Juneteenth. This year we are celebrating and reflecting on this important history with Rosalyn Walton Education and Enrichment Services, Inc. in Manatee County. "Our goal is to continue to promote literacy, which we believe is the pathway to freedom." We begin celebrations with a Reading Conference and a Hip Hop Rhythm Reading presentation with Dr. Vincent Taylor, author of the Cornbread book series for kids.

To learn more about this year's Juneteenth celebrations, go to http://www.recess4all.org/celebrate-juneteenth.html.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Nicole Brown, Senior Manager of Education Strategies

This week on #SuncoastSnapshot, Ernest is joined by Nicole Brown to talk about the United Way Suncoast Summer Care program and its goal to help children with summer slide. The #COVID19 pandemic has exacerbated an already existing problem where students lose significant knowledge in reading and math over summer break. Our Summer Care program allows students to receive scholarships to summer enrichment activities, daycare, tutoring, and intensive literacy support if needed.

To read more about Summer Care, go to https://unitedwaysuncoast.org/what-we-do/education/summer-care/.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Gabriella Gillen, Founder of Define Yourself

This week Ernest is joined by Gabriella Gillen to talk about Define Yourself, her nonprofit that helps foster care children become successful young adults after aging out of the foster care system. The nonprofit is hosting a virtual seminar this May 22nd focusing on confidence and empowerment to open doors to their success. Gabriella is a living example of what she aims to instill in the youth she helps: you can do anything you set your mind to.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Mercedes Olmos, Early Learning Specialist

This week Ernest is joined by Early Learning Specialist, Mercedes Olmos. United Way Suncoast's Reading Rooms in Manatee County focus on achieving grade-level reading and thus allow children ages 0-9 to engage in regular educational activities, sensory experiences, and even social and emotional development. Our Reading Rooms are located in the apartment buildings of local families to increase their access to this beneficial program. As they say, #ItTakesAVillage!

To learn more about our Reading Rooms, go to https://unitedwaysuncoast.org/what-we-do/neighborhood-programs/reading-rooms/.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Matthew Chernesky, Manager, Financial Stability Initiatives

This week Ernest talks with Matthew Chernesky, Manager of #FinancialStability Initiatives, about the importance of personal transportation. United Way Suncoast's Saving for Stability transportation initiative works with Suncoast Credit Union to match car savings dollars for individuals and families needing reliable transportation. They are also matched with a trained Financial Coach to meet their financial goals through a holistic approach.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guest: Stacey Rothfarb, Seminole Heights Elementary Teacher

On this week's episode of #SuncoastSnapshot, Ernest talks #TeacherAppreciationWeek with Stacy Rothfarb, a kindergarten teacher from Seminole Heights Elementary. This entire week we're giving thanks to educators across the nation for the crucial work they do, and especially for their flexibility and efforts throughout the #COVID19 pandemic. United Way Suncoast also provides and supports many programs that Seminole Heights Elementary benefits from as part of our #EarlyLearning initiative.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Carlene Ulacia, Senior Manager, Bank On Initiatives

In today's episode, Ernest and Carlene talk #FinancialLiteracyMonth and Bank On Suncoast. 63 million Americans are currently unbanked or underbanked and are missing out on both short-term and long-term benefits. Money management, asset building, and the development of intergenerational wealth are crucial for #FinancialStability in our communities.

Bank On Suncoast connects our neighbors to 11 financial institutions with certified accounts with low fees. Find out more: https://unitedwaysuncoast.org/what-we-do/income/bank-on-suncoast/.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Autumn Pandolfo, Director of Community Engagement

On this week’s #SuncoastSnapshot, Ernest is joined by UWS Director of Community Engagement, Autumn Pandolfo, and they talk #WeekofCaring 2021. Next week across our entire 5-county region, #UWSvolunteers will be matched with local nonprofit needs projects. After the impact #COVID19 has had on volunteer efforts, this Week of Caring is more important than ever.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's new series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Tish Keller, VITA Volunteer, and Nichole Pena, Senior Manager of Financial Stability Initiatives

This week's Suncoast Snapshot explores how United Way's Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program reaches some of our most vulnerable populations in DeSoto County.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's new series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Donna Gora, Women United Member

This week on #SuncoastSnapshot, Ernest speaks with #WomenUnited Member, Donna Gora, about the 2021 Capitol Day, a statewide virtual day of advocacy with legislators in Tallahassee. Donna shares why it's so important for women to use their voices to speak up for their communities and how Women United makes that possible.

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's new series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast

Host: Ernest Hooper, VP of Communications
Special Guests: Bess the Book Bus' Jennifer Frances, Patrika, and Johanna Deveaux

Join us every Thursday for a new episode of Suncoast Snapshot, United Way Suncoast's new series highlighting local impact stories with our strategic community partners.

https://www.facebook.com/UnitedWaySuncoast
https://www.twitter.com/UWSuncoast
https://www.instagram.com/unitedwaysuncoast