In a recent interview for “(we don’t) Color on the Dog,” Lauren Clark from United Way of West Florida shared exciting details about two major upcoming events that will significantly impact our community.
Glitz and Gallop: A Kentucky Derby Fundraiser
This Saturday, May 3rd, marks the second annual Glitz and Gallop Gala for United Way of West Florida. The event coincides with the Kentucky Derby and offers attendees a chance to bet on horse races for prizes rather than money.
“We have thousands and thousands of dollars of prizes that have been donated to us,” Lauren explained. These prizes include hotel stays, jewelry, a photo shoot worth $1,600, and high-end coolers.
The gala will feature:
- Race betting with opportunities to win luxury prizes
- Silent auctions
- A bourbon pool where every ticket guarantees bourbon (including premium options like Blanton’s)
- Live viewing of the Kentucky Derby
- Catering by Culinary Productions
- Drinks provided by Tap the Coast
The event maintains Kentucky Derby traditions with attendees donning their finest hats, blazers, and bow ties. It’s not just about having fun—it’s about supporting the vital work United Way does in our community.
Why this matters: United Way of West Florida works tirelessly to support our neighbors in need through various programs:
- Grant distribution to local nonprofits, ensuring organizations are financially sound and capable of delivering effective services
- The 211 resource line, which connects people to essential services—”It’s better than Google,” as Lauren puts it
- Support during disaster relief efforts, providing a crucial lifeline for community members
- Resources for those living paycheck to paycheck (nearly half of our community)
- Operating the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline for mental health support
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive
Mark your calendars for May 10th—the 33rd annual Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive organized by the National Association of Letter Carriers.
Participation couldn’t be simpler:
- Look for a bag in your mailbox a few days before May 10th
- Fill it with non-perishable food items (no glass items)
- Place it by your mailbox for postal workers to collect
Last year, this initiative collected hundreds of thousands of pounds of food to support organizations like Feeding Gulf Coast, Manna Food Pantries, and ACTS Ministries.
“It’s as simple as—I don’t even go to the grocery store. I do Walmart delivery. The furthest I have to walk is from my front door to the mailbox,” Lauren said.
The best part? All donations stay local and directly help those in need in Escambia and Santa Rosa Counties.
How You Can Help
Ready to support these incredible initiatives?
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- For Glitz and Gallop tickets, visit uwwf.org/gala My tip is any indication, consider backing “Publisher” in the Derby races!
- For the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, simply prepare your non-perishable donations for May 10th
