Charles Anderson to Step Down as President & CEO of United Way of Pasco County After Six Transformative Years
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
United Way of Pasco County
727-845-3030 | unitedwaypasco.org
Land O’ Lakes – November 21st, 2024 – Charles W. Anderson, President & CEO of United Way of Pasco County (UWPC), will be stepping down in early 2025 after six transformative years leading the organization. Under his leadership since January 2019, Anderson has significantly expanded UWPC’s community impact, raising $2.8 million in 2023 nearly double the amount raised when he first assumed the role. His dedication to improving lives in Pasco County is evident in the many programs he developed and the lasting legacy he leaves behind.
"In my six years at United Way of Pasco County, I have been proud of the integrity and accomplishments of the organization. My staff have always given their very best care to our donors, agency partners, and service recipients. I credit the high quality of our team of staff and volunteers for the United Way of Pasco County's growth and success in effectively responding to unmet needs in the community,” said Charles Anderson, President & CEO.
During Anderson’s tenure, UWPC not only flourished financially but also solidified its role as a pillar of community support. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, UWPC pivoted quickly, launching the Operation Feed Pasco program. This initiative was instrumental in keeping 19 local restaurants afloat, providing more than 237,000 meals to vulnerable populations, including shelters for domestic violence survivors, food ministries, after-school programs for at-risk youth, and elderly care centers. The program raised and spent over $2.4 million, in partnership with the Board of County Commissioners, ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals and families had access to food and care during a time of crisis.
One of Anderson’s crowning achievements was the creation of the Fighting Human Trafficking Program (FHT), which places UWPC among only four United Ways worldwide to offer direct services for human trafficking survivors. Through his visionary leadership, Anderson cultivated critical relationships with local, state, and federal officials, securing a total of $2,013,716 in funding for FHT. This included $1.5 million from the Florida State Legislature and $498,000 from the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, greatly expanding the program’s reach and impact.
UWPC’s reputation for fiscal responsibility and commitment to transparency was also bolstered under Anderson’s leadership. The organization earned the coveted and highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator for four consecutive years. The organization’s 6.5% overhead is a testament to its ethical governance.
Looking forward, Charles Anderson will retire to spend time with his four daughters and three grandchildren, who reside up North, and with his partner, Erlah. He expressed his gratitude for the support of the organization’s Board of Directors and the community.
"I attribute much of my success at United Way of Pasco to the guidance and collaboration of our exceptional Board of Directors," Anderson said. "Their unwavering commitment to our mission has been crucial in helping us respond to evolving community needs."
Under the guidance of Anderson, the UWPC Board has been led with a vision that left an undeniable legacy. He played a pivotal role expanding the focus of the organization from three themes to eight vital areas of impact. His leadership also strengthened the partnership with the Board of County Commissioners, who rely on UWPC for support during disasters, including FEMA allocations, shelters, and a range of essential health and human services.
Mike Aitken, UWPC Board Chair and District Manager of Publix Supermarkets in Pasco County, reflected on the leadership Anderson provided during his tenure: “While we are happy for Chuck's future with his family, we here at United Way of Pasco County will miss him after he retires. Chuck has played an important role in our community and has encouraged his team to find new solutions to existing issues. Chuck is a big-picture and forward-thinking leader, as evidenced by the important programs he initiated since his time here in Pasco.”
Aitken continued, “Since relocating to our area, Chuck has worked tirelessly to establish new relationships and strengthen others (within our local community and beyond). He has worked closely with our agency partners, staff, and government officials to advance the needs of our fellow residents. I have enjoyed working with, and learning from Chuck.”
Aitken concluded, “We are proud of all that Chuck has done for our agency and we congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement and added time with his family and loved ones.”
The UWPC Board and staff extend their heartfelt thanks to Charles Anderson for his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and the profound impact he has had on the organization and the community. They are committed to building on his work and championing the next phase of growth.
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For more information, please contact Vice President, Laura Knight: 727-845-3030 laurak@unitedwaypasco.org
United Way of Pasco County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization working to improve lives for children, families, and individuals in all of Pasco County. We work with over 50 partner agencies to assist our neighbors in their darkest hours and to find sustainable solutions to major issues in our community.