One Year Since Milton -- Reflecting on United Way's Hyper Local Response
- Vero Minute
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 6
As we approach one year since Hurricane Milton struck on October 9, the community is still measuring its impact—and remembering how quickly neighbors rallied.
That mix of reflection and pride set the tone at United Way of Indian River County’s Community Leaders Breakfast last Wednesday (thanks to Seacoast Bank), where hundreds gathered to recognize the people and partnerships that carried this county through. And to celebrate the year-round community partnership, leadership, individuals and organizations whose volunteerism and philanthropy strengthen Indian River County.
If United Way conjures up images of a vast, national organization for you, think again. The scene at this gathering stood in stark contrast. It was beyond evident our United Way operates on a hyper-local, community-driven model—where every decision and every dollar directly reflect the needs of the people who live here.
When disaster strikes, you see the best of Indian River County -- people, businesses, and agencies coming together as one community. That's what this breakfast celebrates: the power of connection.
Meredith Egan, CEO United Way of IRC
Leaders like Jeff Pickering, President of the Indian River Community Foundation, who accelerated the swift delivery of over $1 million for disbursement to United Way, while Matt Tanner and United Against Poverty provided hands-on relief and long-term solutions. In Indian River County, United Way is definitely not a distant entity—it’s a powerful force shaped by local hands, for real, lasting impact.
Keynote speaker Marcus T. Coleman Jr., Vice President of Community Resilience Strategy at United Way Worldwide, underscored a central truth: strong local infrastructure and collaboration are the backbone of effective disaster response and long-term resilience.
The breakfast also celebrated community champions, honoring:
Workplace Partner: Rossway Swan Tierney Barry & Oliver, recognized for 23 years of support, outstanding workplace giving, and more than 250 pro bono hours provided to United Way's Access to Justice initiative.
Funded Partner: The Salvation Army of Indian River County, recognized for its disaster response and ongoing community services.
Community Business: Chef Michael Glatz, Coffee House 1420, honored for hosting community conversations (Cup O'Joe with the CEO) and for rapid local fundraising and support.
Special Recognition Award went to Nicole Colon for sustained volunteer leadership and workforce advocacy and the Ralph T. King Award -- United Way's highest honor, was presented to Jeff Schlitt for two decades of transformational service and leadership.
United Way’s work goes well beyond disaster relief, continuously supporting families who struggle to make ends meet and strengthening the community’s foundation.
For more information about how you can get involved or make a donation, please click here.
Looking ahead, United Way invites the community to participate in the upcoming Day of Caring on Saturday, October 11.
Starting with a kickoff breakfast at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, volunteers from across the county will engage in hands-on projects that support local nonprofits, schools, and partners focused on health, education, and financial stability.
This is a chance to help strengthen the community in a direct and meaningful way. To learn more and to sign up, click here.
