When giving and getting help come together, a community becomes stronger.
By Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer
There is something special about a community that believes in taking care of its neighbors. In Charlotte County, one of the strongest examples of that spirit is the partnership between Publix and United Way Charlotte County (UWCC).
From September 13–30, Publix associates will participate in their annual United Way employee campaign. This year’s theme, “Kindness Multiplied,” reflects what happens when people come together—not only to give, but to support one another.
Publix is one of UWCC’s largest and most valued community partners. With eight Publix stores throughout Charlotte County, their associates are our neighbors, volunteers, donors and community champions.
This is about much more than a campaign or a donation. It is a true partnership focused on giving help and getting help.
One of the things I value most about our relationship with Publix is the accountability that comes with their generosity.
Publix founder George Jenkins believed that giving through United Way was one of the best ways to make sure resources reached those who needed them most in each community. That philosophy continues today. Publix doesn’t simply invest in the community and walk away. They expect their investment to make a difference.
We see that especially during times of disaster. Publix holds United Way to high standards for disaster response. I often tell Publix associates that Publix puts its money where its mouth is—investing in United Way both at and after a storm, expecting us to respond well and fast.
That expectation makes us better.
During the campaign, UWCC employees will visit Publix stores to share information about local programs, resources and services available in our community. Just as importantly, we will be there to listen.
If a Publix associate, family, neighbor, or a customer is facing a challenge, we want them to know that UWCC is a resource they can turn to.
That commitment goes both ways.
Publix associates give their time, talent and dedication to making Charlotte County stronger. A Publix manager serves on the UWCC Board, helping guide our work and impact. A Publix associate also serves on the Steering Committee for the Peace River Community School, helping us better understand the needs of local children and families.
Much of what we are building through our Community School model reflects what we have learned through our partnership with Publix: community works best when we create a system where people can both give help and get help.
A strong community does not wait for people to navigate a complicated system of services. It brings people, resources and relationships together. It listens. It connects. And when a crisis happens, it shows up.
This is what a community partnership looks like.
UWCC works alongside local agencies and community partners to address challenges our neighbors face every day—from supporting isolated seniors, assisting families in times of crisis, and connecting people with resources that help them move forward.
When Publix associates in Charlotte County give to UWCC, their support stays local, helping address needs right here in Charlotte County.
The commitment extends throughout Publix’s service area. During the 2025 United Way campaign, Publix associates pledged $28.7 million. Publix Super Markets Charities contributed an additional $22 million, bringing the company-wide total to more than $50.7 million.
We are grateful to the Publix associates who give, volunteer, serve and show up for their community—and we are equally committed to showing up for them.
Because a strong partnership is not simply about giving. It is about giving help, getting help and making sure no one has to face a challenge alone.
That is Kindness Multiplied.
The next time you visit your neighborhood Publix, take a moment to thank an associate for the many ways they support our community. Their generosity reaches far beyond the store—and together, that kindness multiplies.
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.