Family-Centered Support
By Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer
At United Way Charlotte County (UWCC), we know strong communities begin with strong families. That’s why we are excited to partner with Charlotte County Healthy Start for Family Jam 2026 on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at the Family Services Center. This FREE community event celebrates connection, education, and fun while bringing local organizations together to strengthen families across Charlotte County.
For many years, Healthy Start’s annual community celebration focused primarily on expectant mothers and families with infants and toddlers. While that important work continues, the organization has expanded its focus to support the entire family unit through education, fatherhood initiatives, and community engagement.
“We are very excited to facilitate an event that celebrates and supports the whole family including kids, parents, grandparents, and caregivers,” shared Molly Toure, Executive Director of Healthy Start. “While every family is unique, all families can benefit from community support and practical family-focused education.”
Healthy Start continues to provide services for prenatal moms and families with young children through education, lactation support, mental health screenings, and resource connections that strengthen early childhood development. Over the past several years, the organization has also expanded through its Fatherhood Initiative, bringing programs like T.E.A.M. Dad and Dad Matters to Charlotte County. These programs provide mentorship, education, and support opportunities for fathers and father figures of children up to age 18.
At UWCC, this whole-family approach closely aligns with our Family Empowerment efforts and commitment to supporting ALICE families throughout Charlotte County. By connecting families with education, resources, and opportunities, we help create stronger foundations for long-term stability and success.
Family Jam reflects this shared commitment by bringing together organizations, resources, and activities that celebrate families. The event creates a welcoming space where families can connect with local services, receive practical support, and enjoy quality time together.
Attendees may have access to free car seats and inspections, health screenings, diapers and wipes, household supplies, Dad Packs, Lions Club services, and other valuable community resources. Families can also enjoy a balloon magician, live DJ, button making, river rock painting, and interactive activities for all ages.
UWCC team members will also be onsite connecting families to local resources, sharing information about community programs, and celebrating the importance of family-centered support.
“We are grateful for the financial support of Community Care Plan and United Way Charlotte County,” shared Jerri Sutton, Healthy Start Community Liaison & Fatherhood Coordinator. “Strong community partnerships allow us to provide more meaningful and comprehensive support to local families.”
Families, caregivers, and community members are invited to attend and experience this exciting example of family-centered support in action. At UWCC, we believe lasting community impact happens when organizations come together to support the whole family. Events like Family Jam not only connect families to valuable resources but also help build the support systems that allow children and caregivers to thrive together.
To pre-register for Family Jam 2026, please visit www.unitedwayccfl.org/familyjam
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission—mobilizing the power of our community so all can thrive—please contact Angie Matthiessen, Chief Executive Officer, at 941-627-3539 or director@unitedwayccfl.org.