By Isabella Berman
United Way of Broward County honored a powerhouse group of volunteers last month during its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast, spotlighting the people and partners who are helping change lives across the county.
More than 100 community members gathered to celebrate the everyday heroes behind impactful programs like Project EmPOWER, Community Partnership School, Choose Peace Stop Violence, ReadingPals, and the Family Stability Program.
The morning opened with remarks from Maria Hernandez, Chief Program Officer, and a keynote by Eric Chisem, Director of Strategic Partnerships for Broward County Public Schools. Their message was clear; real change starts with people who show up and that’s exactly what volunteers do.
“These volunteers show what it really means to care about your community,” said Kathleen Cannon, President & CEO of United Way of Broward County. “Their dedication helps create a better, more connected Broward.”
Among those recognized were the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department and City of Lauderhill Police Department for their involvement with Project EmPOWER, which uplifts youth through mentorship and leadership. Other honorees included literacy champions Richard Kaufman and Melissa Chaney from ReadingPals, and community peace advocates Kadeen Thomas and Yolaine Exantus with Choose Peace Stop Violence.
From reading with students to providing family support, the honorees share one thing in common, their commitment to showing up for others.
For readers, this isn’t just about breakfast, it’s a reminder that real change is happening close to home, and stemmed from people who care. Whether it’s a police department mentoring teens or a retired teacher helping kids read, the event was a significant celebration of what is possible when a community comes together.
