Established as the Lake City—Columbia County United Fund, Inc. in 1968, the predecessor of the United Way of Suwannee Valley sought to create a positive impact and serve the Lake City/Columbia County area. Incorporated on October 10, 1968, the Lake City—Columbia County United Fund, Inc. began with a starting goal of $39,700 to support eight agencies in the Lake City/Columbia County area. On January 13, 1992 the name was changed to Suwannee Valley United Way, Inc. to recognize the inclusion of Hamilton and Suwannee counties into our service area. On May 1, 1994 the name was changed to United Way of Suwannee Valley, Inc.

Today, the United Way of Suwannee Valley has grown to serve Columbia, Suwannee, Hamilton, and Lafayette counties, with an ambitious goal of $500,000 to support 16 agencies within the community.

Our growth has been attributed to the generous donations from community members and local businesses who see the good we are doing throughout our community. The continued generosity of these citizens and businesses will allow United Way of Suwannee Valley to continue growing in its goal to advance the common good and strengthen our community.  

United Leadership throughout the Years

Phyllis Whitaker (1968 – 1989)

Carol Verducci (1989 – 1995)

Earline Parker (1995 – 1999)

Rita Dopp (1999 – 2018)

Jennifer Anchors (2018 – Present)