For Hometown News
ST. LUCIE COUNTY -
The United Way of St. Lucie County, with the help of corporate sponsorship from Florida Power & Light, kicked off its 50th annual community wide fundraising campaign with a breakfast on Broadway themed community leaders breakfast.
The event was held at the PGA Village Island Club on Oct. 4. Amy Brunjes, external affairs manager for Florida Power & Light and Monte Kosoff, vice president of development and marketing for the United Way of St. Lucie County, co-hosted the third annual Spirit of St. Lucie award presentations for individuals, agencies and businesses that made significant contributions to human service needs in the county in the past year.
Ken Pruitt, St. Lucie County property appraiser, was chairman of this year's campaign and addressed the audience of more than 200 community supporters.
"I know the urgent needs of this community and United Way is able to put our money where it will be most needed and benefited by the community," said Mr. Pruitt. "United Way gives us an organized opportunity to make the most positive and measurable impact. We have tremendous community support, but there are still many employers who do not offer their employees an avenue for community giving. We're asking everyone to step up efforts to grow the campaign and better help those in need in St. Lucie County."
Pamela Rauch, vice president of development and external affairs for Florida Power & Light was the keynote speaker for the event. She spoke on the importance of corporate involvement and promoting volunteerism among employees to meet the evolving needs of the community.
Eight Spirit of St. Lucie awards were presented to those chosen by a local volunteer committee.
The following were presented Spirit of St. Lucie awards: Mindi Fetterman accepted the community angel award.
Safespace was given the agency excellence award.
St. Lucie County property appraiser's office received the leadership award for United Way employee campaigns.
Publix Supermarkets was conferred the Bud and Dot Adams award for corporate philanthropy.
Seacoast National Bank was granted the Paul J. Hiott award for community volunteerism.
Richard K. Davis Construction Corp was bestowed an award conferred on a company that employs 50 people or less.
Florida Power & Light Company was bestowed an award conferred on a company that employs 51 people or more.
St. Lucie News Tribune/TC Palm.com received the United Way community impact award.
For more information on the awards, call (772) 464-5300 or visit www.unitedwayslc.org.