Business leader leverages childhood struggles to support Strong Families

Hilton Ocala volunteers, from left, Mary Hutchcraft, Freddie Lopez, Pete Lynch and Rich Larkin, serve a meal during a Strong Families class. [Photo courtesy United Way of Marion County]

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Posted April 23, 2025 | By Beth Nelson, vice president Community Impact, United Way of Marion County, Special to the Gazette

In a world where financial challenges seem to loom larger than ever, stories of resilience and support shine a light of hope. One such story is that of Rich Larkin, a man whose childhood struggles have fueled a lifelong commitment to helping families in need. As the area manager of Hilton Ocala, Larkin’s path crossed with United Way’s Strong Families program in 2017. This connection resonated deeply with him, echoing his family’s financial struggles.

Growing up in a family of six, Larkin recalls times when his home was devoid of electricity. His mother’s explanations for their circumstances often felt inadequate and, as a young boy, he sensed the harsh reality behind those excuses. Food was not always guaranteed and when it was, his family learned to eat quickly, mindful that the refrigerator might be empty again the following week. His father, a steadfast figure, worked three jobs, yet it was hard to pay all the bills.

When Larkin learned about the Strong Families program, he recognized an opportunity to make a difference.

“I have a long-standing history of helping people,” he said, his eyes reflecting his passion. “I love Strong Families; It offers a way to get out of hard times through hard work.”

Launched in 2016, the Strong Families program is a transformative initiative by United Way of Marion County that assists families in achieving financial stability over a 15-week course. Participants facing homelessness, and professionals from the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population, gather to learn vital skills for improving their financial situations.

Classes are held at Central Christian Church, an environment that fosters community through shared meals and relationship-building. Here, participants bond over dinner, strengthen family relationships and form a crucial support network as they navigate their path toward stability. The curriculum addresses critical topics that include:

* Budgeting: Learning to create and manage a budget to prioritize spending and avoid debt.
* Credit management: Understanding how credit works and maintaining good credit scores.
* Money management: Tracking finances and making informed financial decisions.
* Work ethic: Instilling values related to employment, punctuality, responsibility, and professionalism.
* Goal setting: Helping participants set realistic financial and personal goals.
* Savings strategies: Emphasizing the importance of saving and how to save for future goals effectively.
* Debt reduction: Techniques for managing and reducing debt, including negotiations with creditors.
* Career development: Guidance on enhancing skills through education and exploring opportunities for career advancement.
* Financial literacy: A broader understanding of financial concepts, including investments and retirement planning.
* Support systems: Encouraging the building of networks and relationships that provide emotional and practical support.

Strong Families success coaches are one of the more unique elements of the program. These dedicated individuals work alongside participants for an entire year, helping them set and achieve goals.

“The success coach is the secret sauce,” said United Way CEO Robert Haight. “Many programs give participants a budget sheet. We build relationships and empower people to help themselves with the resources and tried-and-true techniques we have perfected over the years.”

“We work with families wherever they are. Our goal is to end generational poverty,” said Pebbles Vance, director of the Strong Families program

Larkin connects deeply with the stories of the families he encounters. Like his father, who would rise in the middle of the night to transport travelers to the airport, many families in the program fight tirelessly for a better future. Larkin’s experiences allow him to empathize with their struggles, enriching his commitment to the program’s mission.

Demonstrating his dedication to the cause, Larkin, through the generosity of Hilton Ocala, donates some of the meals to the program, ensuring that families can share nourishing food. Additionally, he generously provides space for the program’s graduation ceremonies at the hotel, creating a special moment for families to celebrate their hard-earned achievements.

As he shares his journey, Larkin urges businesses and community members to rally behind the Strong Families program.

“We can all play a part in uplifting those in need,” he said. “Every contribution, no matter how small, can significantly impact.”

Larkin’s journey from childhood marked by financial struggles to a leader in community support embodies the spirit of resilience and compassion. Strong Families proves that with hard work, support, and determination, families can move from struggles to strength, breaking the cycle of poverty for generations, he said, but we need community support.

“If you can give money, therapy, volunteer, or goods, it equals a tremendous good for someone. It strengthens our community and giving back feels amazing. Strong Families is a vehicle for how we help people get back on their feet,” he said.

The public is welcome to attend the next Strong Families graduation ceremony, at 6 p.m. on May 8 at Hilton Ocala, 3600 SW 36th Ave., Ocala, and celebrate with the largest graduating class to date. Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP to [email protected].