Celebrating the Heart of Our Work

At United Way of Bay County, volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do. From packing food boxes and mentoring youth to organizing community drives and supporting local events, their time, energy, and compassion fuel our mission year-round. That’s why, at the close of the 2024–2025 volunteer season, we knew we had to do something special to say thank you.

On a beautiful summer evening, we hosted our Volunteer Appreciation Event at Wenonah Park, during the beloved Wednesdays in the Park concert series. With music filling the air, the riverfront glowing in the sunset, and the community gathered in celebration, it was the perfect setting to honor the incredible individuals who give so much to Bay County.

Volunteers from across the county—representing dozens of programs and initiatives—were invited to enjoy an evening of live music, refreshments, and heartfelt recognition. We shared stories of impact, handed out tokens of appreciation, and most importantly, took the time to connect and celebrate the people who make our work possible.

This event wasn’t just a thank-you—it was a reminder of the power of community. Each volunteer, whether they gave one hour or one hundred, played a role in creating positive change. Their efforts helped families in crisis, supported students in need, and strengthened the fabric of our neighborhoods.

We’re incredibly proud to work alongside such dedicated and compassionate individuals. Their service inspires us every day, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of gratitude and celebration for years to come.

To every volunteer who showed up, stepped up, and made a difference—thank you. You are the reason we can do what we do.