From Our CEO - United is the Way
As we reflect on our work, we are filled with gratitude for the generosity, trust, and commitment shown by the Ocoee Region. Because of you — our donors, volunteers, partners, and advocates — lives are being strengthened, families are supported, and hope is being restored across Bradley and Polk counties. Our impact is not simply a measure of dollars raised or hours served; it is a testament to what is possible when a community chooses to stand united.
Our legacy has always been rooted in collective action. Together, we are identifying our region’s most pressing needs, aligning resources strategically, and investing in solutions that create lasting change. Guided by our four bold goals — breaking the cycle of poverty, meeting immediate basic needs, giving kids an equal chance to succeed, and building pathways to a healthy community — we are the needle where it matters most.
Moving forward, we are taking meaningful steps toward shaping the future of our work through the development of our Stable Families Framework. This program represents the next evolution of our impact — a coordinated, data-informed approach designed to strengthen families holistically. By aligning housing stability, childcare access, financial security, healthcare, and mental health support, we are building a system that doesn’t only respond to crisis, but helps prevent it. Stable families create stable communities, and that belief will guide our strategy in the years ahead.
Our commitment to measurable impact continues to distinguish us. We steward donor investments with care by funding collaborative partnerships, strengthening nonprofit capacity, and leading a thoughtful, community-driven allocation process to ensure every dollar is translated to meaningful and sustainable results.
Innovation remains at the heart of our mission. As needs evolve, so do we. By embracing fresh ideas, forward-thinking strategies, and strong cross-sector relationships, we are positioning our region to thrive.
United Way is not simply an organization — it is a shared commitment to one another. Our progress belongs to all of us, and the work ahead calls us to even greater collaboration. Together, we are building a community where stability is within reach for every family and opportunity is not limited by circumstance. I am inspired by what we have accomplished — and even more energized by what we will achieve next as we continue to shape our region in powerful ways.
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Stephanie Linkous
President & CEO