United Way of Northeast Florida let the good times roll Friday night at its Mardi-Gras-themed Champions of Change Awards. The second-annual event once again took place at Emerald Station, part of the Phoenix Arts & Innovation District, where 12 individuals and organizations were recognized for their dedication to creating positive change in Northeast Florida.  

“United Way envisions a community of opportunity where every person has hope and the chance to reach their full potential, and this year’s honorees are helping turn that vision into reality across Northeast Florida,” said Melanie Patz, president and CEO of United Way of Northeast Florida. “We are deeply grateful for their leadership, generosity and unwavering commitment to strengthening our community and creating lasting impact for all.” 

The following awards and their winners were announced: 

• Healthy Community Champion: Baptist Health 

• Financial Security Champion: JPMorganChase 

• Youth Opportunity Champion: Duval County Public Schools 

• Paul Y. Paul Women’s Empowerment Award: Sara Ley 

• Rising Philanthropist Award: Hannah Oberholtzer 

• Wealth of Impact Award (RealSense): Gladys Marrero 

• Wealth of Impact Award (Employee Campaign Chair): Debbie Moore 

• Volunteer of the Year: Jill Naponelli 

• Power of Partnership Award: Baker County Council on Aging and the LJD Jewish Family and Community Services 

• Test of Time Award (individual): Lisa Palmer 

• Test of Time Award (organization): Florida Blue 

“The impact these individuals and organizations have made across our community is both inspiring and transformative,” said Coretta Hill, chief operating officer for United Way of Northeast Florida. “Their generosity reaches far beyond a single moment, reflected in lives uplifted, opportunities expanded and a stronger Northeast Florida.” 

The selection for most awards was made by United Way staff based on partnership history, volunteer service and special funding commitments. Winners of four awards — Volunteer of the Year, Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award, Rising Philanthropist Award and the RealSense Wealth of Impact Award — were determined by public nomination and voting. 

“I congratulate this year’s winners,” said Darnell Smith, board chair of United Way of Northeast Florida. “Being a champion of change for United Way means refusing to accept the status quo when our neighbors deserve more. Lending your voice, your leadership and your resources to build a healthier, stronger community for everyone is commendable – and critical.” 

United Way would like to thank the event’s in-kind sponsors: the Jacksonville Business Journal, Mulch Masters, Puff ‘n Stuff, and Sight & Sound. United Way would also like to thank local comedian Mike Freed for serving as emcee and the talented Raisin Cake Orchestra and singer Michelle Manzo Cobb, whose New Orleans jazz set an energetic tone for the after-party and dancing. 

To get involved with United Way – whether through giving or volunteering – contact Alecia Givens at aleciag@nulluwnefl.org or learn more online at unitedwaynefl.org/get-involved. You can also read the latest about United Way’s impact on the community in the organization’s impact report at unitedwaynefl.org/impact-report. 

For more information on the Champions of Change Awards or to request an interview with United Way leadership or any of this year’s winners, contact Sarah Henderson Daugherty, vice president of marketing and communications, at sarahd@nulluwnefl.org. More information on United Way of Northeast Florida can be found at unitedwaynefl.org.  

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About United Way of Northeast Florida
For more than a century, United Way of Northeast Florida has walked alongside individuals and families, helping them move through today’s challenges and realize tomorrow’s possibilities. We deliver services, provide funds and mobilize volunteers where they’re needed most to strengthen financial security, create youth opportunity and build a healthy community. As a respected and trusted philanthropic organization, we have a long tradition of helping families thrive across Duval, Baker, Clay, Nassau and northern St. Johns counties. Our work is made possible thanks to the commitment of thousands of volunteers, donors and community partners. To learn more and get involved, visit unitedwaynefl.org, or follow United Way of Northeast Florida on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.