United Way Campaign Kickoff Takes the Stage at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall at FSW. 

The spotlight is on community impact as United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades launches its 2025–2026 Campaign Kickoff on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, located on the campus of Florida SouthWestern State College. 

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. for networking and light breakfast offerings. 

Program begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. 

Tickets are $15 and are available now through the Barbara B Mann website. 

This annual kickoff marks the beginning of United Way’s fundraising season, bringing together a dynamic mix of Partner Agencies, volunteers, Board members, and community leaders.  The event will also unveil the results of the Pacesetter Campaigns—early fundraising efforts by local companies that set the tone for the season ahead. 

Leading this year’s campaign are Co-Chairs Carolyn Rogers and Will Prather. Carolyn serves as Senior Vice President of Wealth Services at Florida Trust Wealth Management, while Will is the Executive Producer and CEO of Prather Productions, which operates Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre in Fort Myers, Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Pennsylvania, and APEX Touring. 

Together, they will rally the community toward an ambitious goal of $11,512,716, with every dollar staying local to support a robust network of human service organizations. 

United Way Partner Agencies include the Alvin A. Dubin Alzheimer’s Resource Center, Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Harry Chapin Food Bank, Boys & Girls Clubs, and United Way 211, among many others. These organizations address a wide range of needs—from nurturing children and strengthening families to helping seniors and individuals with disabilities live independently. 

Beyond fundraising, United Way fosters collaboration among agencies, driving innovative solutions and mobilizing communities to create lasting change. 

Join us for a morning of purpose, partnership, and possibility—where every seat in the house supports a stronger, more connected Southwest Florida.  

For more information, contact United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades at (239) 433-2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org.