What the Holidays Mean to Us
By Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer
The holidays are a time for joy, reflection, and connection—and for the staff at United Way Charlotte County, they also serve as a reminder of why our work matters. I asked our team what this season means to them personally, and how it connects to the work we do in our community.
For many, the season is about family and togetherness. Jen shared, “Spending time with my family and simply being together is what I look forward to most,” while Kristen added, “Having all my children under one roof is a gift that reminds me how precious family and time truly are.” Alexandra reflected on building new traditions with her sons and extended family after getting married this year, noting how simple moments together fill her heart with thankfulness. Danya echoed that joy, looking forward to traveling and watching her son light up playing with cousins.
Others focused on presence, gratitude, and the spiritual side of the season. Dawn said, “The holidays remind me to pause and focus on the spiritual blessings around me—connection, purpose, and gratitude.” Janine added, “What matters most is who’s around the tree, not what’s under it. That spirit of care inspires the work we do for families throughout our community.”
The holidays also shine a light on the challenges our neighbors face. Stephanie reflected, “We are so blessed to have networks of support, but many in our community navigate hardship alone. The work we do is a reminder of why it’s important to continue raising funds to help those in need.” Even amid her own busy season, she finds meaning in spending time with family while helping others.
For me, this season is by far my favorite. My first volunteer experience was a solo stint at a local hospital singing Christmas carols to the patients who did not have family visiting them. That one singular event shaped me as a college student and my helping heart has never looked back. When our daughter was born, she came home from the hospital on Christmas day. I am therefore tied forever to the joy of this season.
The reflections of our team remind us that joy and purpose often go hand in hand. Whether it’s laughter with loved ones, quiet moments of reflection, or the fulfillment of helping others, the season reinforces the heart of United Way Charlotte County: building a community where everyone can thrive.
As this year comes to a close, we invite you to join us in this work. Your year-end gift helps strengthen programs and partnerships that keep families housed, seniors connected, and children supported—so all can thrive. Together, we can make the holiday season brighter for our neighbors and lay the foundation for a hopeful new year. Please visit unitedwayccfl.org/Voices.
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community so all can thrive, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.