Heart of Florida United Way • 12th April 2024

Breaking Barriers: Kim Ranachowski's Path to Success With Destination Graduation

As Kim Ranachowski pursued her dream of becoming a physical therapist assistant at Seminole State College, unexpected financial hurdles threatened to halt her progress. Her roof needed replacement, a cost she couldn’t absorb. Facing the daunting choice between continuing her education or seeking full-time employment to cover essential expenses, Kim turned to Heart of Florida United Way’s Destination Graduation program for assistance.

Heart of Florida United Way • 26th February 2024

Heart of Florida ’s Jonathon Adler Recognized as a 40 Under 40 Honoree by the Orlando Business Journal

We are so proud to announce that our very own Senior Vice President of Human Resources Jonathon Adler is being recognized by Orlando Business Journal as one of their 40 Under 40 honorees!

Heart of Florida United Way • 24th January 2024

85 Years of Impact: Heart of Florida Celebrates Our History and Embraces a Brighter Future

In 2024, we are celebrating our 85th anniversary, commemorating more than eight decades of unwavering dedication to the Central Florida community. Over the last 85 years, we have supported our community as our country has weathered wars, recessions, and a once-in-a-century pandemic. Close to home, we have helped our Central Florida neighbors navigate the aftermath of the Pulse shooting, dozens of hurricanes, and so much more.

Heart of Florida United Way • 21st November 2023

Heart of Florida's 2023 Thanksgiving Project: A Heartwarming Success

In its fifth consecutive year, the Heart of Florida United Way’s Thanksgiving Project continues to make a significant impact in Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties...

Heart of Florida United Way • 14th November 2023

Unveiling the Future: Heart of Florida Unveils Our New Website

Exciting News! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our revamped Heart of Florida United Way website. This digital transformation marks a significant step in our commitment to providing a seamless, engaging, and informative online experience.

Heart of Florida United Way • 14th November 2023

Olympic Gold Medalist Dominique Dawes to Headline HFUW's 17th Annual Women United Luncheon

For the 17th year in a row, Heart of Florida United Way will proudly host the Women United Luncheon, presented by the Walt Disney World® Resort, uniting influential and accomplished leaders from various professional backgrounds...

United Way • 27th October 2023

Heart of Florida United Way Earns Coveted Highest Four-Star Rating from Charity Navigator

Heart of Florida United Way has exciting news to share! We’re proud to announce that we have once again earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator with a perfect 100% rating in three key areas: Accountability and Finance, Culture and Community, and Leadership and Adaptability...

Heart of Florida United Way • 4th August 2023

HFUW Invests $1 Million to Create New, Permanent Home for New Image Youth Center in Parramore

On Friday, August 4, 2023, Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW) announced a $1,000,000 investment in the New Image Youth Center (NIYC), an organization that provides after-school and summer programs for Parramore’s children and teens...

WDW Magazine • 28th June 2023

Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort vs. Disney’s Vero Beach Resort: Which Should You Choose?

Everyone knows about Disney’s on-property resorts in both Florida and California, but did you know Disney also has several beach resorts? Bringing Disney magic seaside, you can combine your love for Disney with your love of the beach at three beachside locations, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Hawai‘i, Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort in South Carolina, and Disney’s Vero Beach Resort in Florida...

Heart of Florida United Way • 11th April 2023

HFUW Invests $42,000 in The Mustard Seed of Central Florida

It has been over six months since Hurricane Ian and Nicole hit Central Florida, yet our local families are still rebuilding their lives and homes...

WDW Magazine • 18th March 2022

PROS and CONS: Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

If you’ve found yourself enjoying Disney Springs, you’ve likely noticed Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa just across the shores of Lake Buena Vista. If you’re considering booking a stay at this Victorian-style Disney Vacation Club resort, here are the pros and cons you need to know...

WDW Magazine • 10th February 2022

REVIEW: Animator’s Palate Celebrates Animation On Disney Cruise Line

No more than 10 years old when I set sail on my last Disney Cruise Line voyage (this must be rectified … and soon!), most of my dinner experiences consisted of me begging to be released from the table. After all, my newfound friends and, perhaps more importantly, my newfound freedom at my pre-teen club, awaited. This wasn’t the case for one particularly incredible restaurant experience, however...

WDW Magazine • 2nd February 2022

Tackling Your Kid’s First Roller Coaster: A Guide for Eager Parents

“Front row. No hands.” That was my dad’s roller coaster mantra. He was all about the thrills, and it was crucial to him that his three daughters share in that joy. Fortunately, I possess—or, at least, I used to possess—the thrill-seeking gene and took little issue with his idea of topsy-turvy fun...

WDW Magazine • 6th January 2022

Treehouse Villas Review & Photos: Disney’s Saratoga Springs

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is my family’s DVC home resort, so I’m well acquainted with the Victorian-style property and its charming equestrian accents. Until recently, however, I hadn’t had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with its lesser-known counterpart—the Treehouse Villas, which are located adjacent to the main resort...

WDW Magazine • 23rd December 2021

DVC Board Games: These Disney Games Are a Unique DVC Perk

Some Disney Vacation Club (DVC) membership perks are well-known—like the 20% Disney merchandise discount and access to special member-only events. Others, however, are a little less obvious. Take DVC special edition board games for example...

WDW Magazine • 20th December 2021

Harmony Barber Shop: How to Get a Haircut at Disney World

Nestled in a corner between the firehouse and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., you’ll find an inconspicuously charming striped barber pole. For years, I walked past it—assuming it was just another relic of the small midwestern town Main Street is modeled after...

WDW Magazine • 8th November 2021

Modified Character Sightings at Disney World: What to Expect

It truly feels like the first time in forever that Walt Disney World has opened its doors to the one-on-one character interactions Disney fans know and love. And let me tell you; it’s nothing short of magical...

WDW Magazine • 25th October 2021

Disney World Baby Care Centers: Location and Features

Visiting Walt Disney World with little ones is a magical experience, but it can also be a stressful one. From remembering to pack everything you need to keeping small children from overheating, being a Disney parent is no simple task. Fortunately, Walt Disney World theme parks feature Baby Care Centers—which really are a dream come true for parents in need...

WDW Magazine • 14th October 2021

Best Disney World Rides for Toddlers in All Four Parks

The beauty of Walt Disney World is that there’s so much to do—no matter how young or old (or big or small!) you might be. But, of course, that doesn’t mean everyone can do everything. Fortunately, there’s plenty to do and see for even the youngest mouseketeers. You just have to know where to look...

WDW Magazine • 8th October 2021

How to Introduce Kids to Disney Fireworks

The “oohs” and “aahs” of Disney’s world-famous nighttime spectaculars rank among many fans’ must-do attractions. But fireworks with little ones? That has the potential to turn a fairytale evening into an epic nightmare. Fortunately, there are ways to introduce kids to Disney fireworks with a little less trauma and a lot more magic...