United Way of Hernando County is anticipating a summer of fun and productivity; and of course, many acts of service and good will for the people of Hernando. Throughout the month of June, United Way of Hernando County is hosting its Annual Business Blitz Challenge.
“Attention all local Hernando County businesses,” read a related news release. “You have been CHALLENGED to donate to United Way of Hernando County this June! Donate now to help United Way reach their Business Blitz Challenge goal of $10,000 and continue their mission of providing direct services to those most vulnerable.”
United Way specializes in the mobilization of resources to meet the needs of local residents; and, in the wake of the effects of COVID-19, UW is focusing in particular on mental health services, financial accountability, wrap-around services, and childcare. Annually, United Way hosts the Business Blitz Challenge to raise funds for regional initiatives to enhance the lives of Hernando County residents. All donations are used locally and directly impact the people who need it the most. “United Way of Hernando County’s Annual Business Blitz Challenge was launched in 2018,” said Dominique Holmes, Community Outreach Director United Way of Hernando County. “Since then, we’ve had 64 businesses ‘accept the challenge’ over the years with a lot of them being annual loyal contributors.”
United Way draws its power from partnerships, and aligning with local businesses allows them to devise collective solutions for community issues and concerns. In addition, United Way invests in their Partner Programs which according to the news release “furthers their reach of bridging the gaps in services to address key needs in Hernando. United Way understands that both consumers and employers are seeking ways to make a difference and take pride in being a part of the solution.”
“Now more than ever, cause brand marketing is translating into purchasing,” stated Angie B. Walasek, Executive Director and CEO of United Way of Hernando County. “By giving back to United Way, businesses are not only investing in their community, but they are investing in their employees, their neighbors, and their family and friends.” Studies have shown that 87% of people would switch from one product or service to another if that service is aligned with a good cause, and nearly 91% of consumers want companies to support the community in which they do business.
According to Dominique Holmes, the business challenge is a win-win opportunity for the United Way, their corporate partners, and the community that both serve. “Building local relationships is important to United Way. It not only allows us to connect with our supporters but also helps us bridge gaps in services by mobilizing resources for residents within our community. By accepting the challenge, businesses have the opportunity to let their customers know that their company aligns themselves with a great cause and ultimately boosts their outreach, cause brand marketing, and community involvement in Hernando,” said Holmes.
Easily Accept the Challenge and pledge to LIVE UNITED:
- Give back online: www.UnitedWayHernando.org/AcceptChallenge
- Mail in or drop off your contribution to the UW office at 4028 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL 34606
United Way also is seeking event volunteers for The Red, White, and Brew Festival, coming up 5-10 p.m. July 3rd at Anderson Snow Park. Shifts are available for parking, ID/Wristband check-in, clean-up patrol, and relief runners at this ideal summertime event, co-hosted by Hernando County Parks and Recreation and HITS106. “Sign up for a volunteer shift to get a front-row seat to the spectacular fireworks show at the end of the night,” reads an event notice.
Water stations, a free meal, and designated bathrooms will be provided to all volunteers. All volunteers are required to attend a pre-meeting on Friday, July 2nd at 3pm for training, instructions, and to sign off on a liability waiver. If you are unable to attend this meeting, please let us know asap to schedule a time with our volunteer coordinator on 7/1 or 7/2.
Call 352-688-2026 or email [email protected] volunteer. Spend your summer with United Way!
