As the Women United Flagler Chapter of the United Way of Volusia-Flagler Counties prepare to celebrate their 14th Annual Power of the Purse event this evening, we recognize the many contributions women across Florida are making to ensure the mission of the United Way is successful. This week’s The Big Five guest is Melissa Nelson, President & CEO of the United Way of Florida.
Tell readers about yourself.Â
For the most part, I am a lifelong Floridian. Growing up on Amelia Island and spending most of my adult life in, and around, St. Augustine, has been just perfect. I am a confirmed beach lover and feel lucky that I was able to raise my children here, as well.
Like many of us in the Northeast Florida area, I am a graduate of the University of Florida and lately I shared that regardless of my transition to Tallahassee, I will remain a Gator fan. As for my work, my professional life has been one focused on work with nonprofit organizations. I started right out of college and still enjoy the work, today.
You’ve recently accepted a position as the head of Florida’s United Way. How did you discover United Way and what made it a good fit as a career path for you?Â
A little over 10 years ago, a friend volun-told me to serve on a committee with United Way of St. Johns. I did and before much more time had passed, I was interviewing for a position with the organization. The truly philanthropic mission, of United Way, really appealed to me. Although I had worked with nonprofit professional associations historically, I wanted to be part of the work being done in our community — at United Way, we call that Living United.
What are some of the achievements you are most proud of during your time in St. Johns County?Â
United Way of St. Johns is doing amazing work, but we don’t do it alone. We expanded our territory to include Putnam County, launched RealSense which offers free tax preparation, worked with Putnam County to administer CARES funds, and are currently working with St. Johns County to administer ARPA funds. While I was there, we responded to two hurricanes and a pandemic. The small staff is incredible and fully invested in the work. This commitment is supercharged because it is combined with the efforts of dedicated volunteers who also have the desire to make a real and significant difference in our community.
What goals have you set for the organization as you look to the future?Â
In my new position, I have the privilege of working with 28 local United Ways across the state that are all making a difference in their communities. My goal is to be the best voice and resource that I can be to assist in that work. By elevating the work of each United Way, we create a stronger awareness not only of the need in our communities but also solutions.
Why is supporting the United Way’s mission a good investment for businesses and individual donors alike?Â
United Way focuses on health, education and financial stability. Staying true to these target areas and creating a network of partners that work in this space allows United Way to address the most pressing needs in a community that no other group can tackle. When an individual or a business considers a financial contribution or is looking for a volunteer project, United Way can respond to all interests and/or concerns. Everything effort is transparent, vetted and measured toward successful outcomes.
Bonus: What do you personally love most about the United Way?Â
The work of United Way just makes sense to me and speaks to my heart. When a child has a safe and secure place to sleep at night and a good breakfast, they go to school ready to learn. Early success in school leads to higher learning of some sort whether it is vocational or a PhD. Now, that very child can better provide for his or her own children. We can break the cycle. We should break the cycle.
