Advocate

Action Alert

Throughout our history, United Way has done extraordinary work to improve people’s lives and build strong communities. With our focus on community impact, United Way has a key role to play in advocating for good public policy. Without community input, our priorities in Education, Income and Health will lose critical government policy and funding support.

Join us and advocate for an Education, Income, Health or nonprofit strengthening issue that you are passionate about. Your community needs you to have an impact on public policy decisions. Advocating in your community does not simply mean lobbying on a specific piece of legislation.

There are many ways that you can advocate. See below for ideas on how you can create social change in your community.

Speak Out

Take a peek at the Florida United Way Consensus Legislative Agenda and help us advocate locally for Education, Income, & Health strengthening issues and solutions. Keep an eye on United Way of Hernando County's Blog for more information on where UW stands with Health, Education, & Financial Stability and for United Way of Florida's Legislative Link.


Be Informed

ALICE refers to the population in our community who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed.  The ALICE Population represents those among us who are working whose salaries do not match Hernando's general cost of living.  They are educated, hardworking and striving to create a better life for themselves and their families. Basic costs like housing, food and gas are difficult for some due to more people living paycheck to paycheck where one car repair or medical bill can tip them over into financial crisis.

The ALICE Report shows 49% of Hernando County's population at risk, with 11% already in poverty and 38% being considered the ALICE population - one crisis away from poverty. ALICE families and individuals represent our neighbors, friends and co-workers. They care for our children, serve our meals and keep the office functioning. Their work supports all of us. Despite working, often more than one job, the ALICE population earns too little for a sustainable lifestyle and ultimate survival budget. An increasing number of households are living paycheck to paycheck and our community feels the consequences.

Visit the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps Project for that focuses on Hernando County's Health Outcomes along with Health Factors. 


Engage With Your Community

Volunteer locally! By donating your time for a local cause, it gives you the opportunity to engage in not just local issues, but local solutions. Visit Lend A Hand Hernando for opportunities in your area.
 


Raise Awareness About a Cause

Use social media tools to educate your friends and networks about an issue you care about. Follow United Way of Hernando County on social media by LIKING us for constant updates on community initiatives and programs. Share posts and pictures with your friends on topics you find interesting and informative.