SOCIAL SCENE: ‘United is the Way’

Chrissy Vickers, Mayra Usme and Pebbles Vance, left to right, pose together during the United Way of Marion County annual meeting at the College of Central Florida Klein Conference Center in Ocala, Fla. on Thursday, August 28, 2025. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2025.

For more than six decades, since it was founded in 1961 by famed local horseman Bonnie Heath, United of Way Marion County has been helping people in the community through a variety of initiatives. On Aug. 28, the organization presented awards and recognitions to several people who have helped it achieve success.

The 64^th annual meeting and community celebration, held, at the Harvey R. Klein Conference Center at the College of Central Florida, brought together donors, volunteers, workplace partners and community leaders to celebrate the past year’s impact, recognize outstanding contributions and unveil a refreshed branded identity. The new campaign theme, “United is the Way,” reflects the organization’s belief that lasting change is only possible when the community comes together, the news release noted.

Honors extended during the event included:

• The Bonnie Heath Legacy Award was presented to Rusty Branson, regional president of SouthState Bank, in recognition of his legacy of caring and long-standing commitment to community service.
• Publix Supermarkets Charities, Signature Brands and city of Ocala employees were recognized as top workplace/corporate donors.
• The Changemaker of the Year Award was given to Spectrum Charter Communications for its Digital Education Grant supporting expanded access to technology and learning.
• Outgoing board members honored were Kevin Sheilley, County Commissioner Michelle Stone, Dr. David Willis and Marion County Sheriff’s Office Maj. Charles McIntosh.
• Newly welcomed board members included Marion County Public Schools Interim Superintendent Danielle Brewer, County Commissioner Matthew McClain, Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership Interim CEO Tamara Fleischhaker, Rhoda Walkup of Ergle Financial Services and Juan Cortes of Lockheed Martin.

“The caring nature of Marion County was celebrated by recognizing many organizations and individuals, symbolizing the theme of ‘United is the Way,’” said CEO Robert “Bob” Haight in the release. “This year’s annual meeting not only honored those who have made a lasting impact but also marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we continue to unite the community around solutions that create real change.”

To learn more, go to uwmc.org

United Way of Marion County Annual Meeting | Edited | Bruce A

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