FORT MYERS — United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades will mark the start of its 2027 annual campaign with a special event on Dec. 1 at Caloosa Sound Convention Center. The theme for the event, “The Greatest Hits: 70 Years of United Way,” will also include a celebration of the nonprofit’s 70th anniversary in Southwest Florida.

The campaign is led by three community leaders: Joe Catti of FineMark Bank & Trust; Jim Nathan, formerly of Lee Health; and Cliff Smith, formerly of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. They will spur efforts to raise $10.4 million to support critical services and over 260 programs throughout the community.

This year’s campaign reflects on how United Way has evolved over the decades to address the community’s changing needs while embracing the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.

The event will bring together pacesetters, sponsors and the community for an evening of inspiration and community spirit as United Way celebrates 70 years of community impact. Guests will enjoy live music, networking, hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar and plenty of fun. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best 70s-inspired attire. From outfits inspired by disco, flower power or rock-and-roll, this milestone will be celebrated in style. The emcee for the festivities will be former Gulf Coast News anchor Kellie Burns.

United Way will honor the dedicated pacesetters for their outstanding fundraising achievements and commitment to strengthening the community. Pacesetters are companies and nonprofits that launch their campaigns early, setting the tone for the season. These organizations contribute $1,000 or more, often through employee payroll deductions, and are recognized in a special video at the fall kickoff. Past pacesetters include LCEC; Uhler Vertich White Advisors; Henderson, Franklin, Starnes & Holt, P.A.; Lee Health; Publix; Harry Chapin Food Bank, Children’s Advocacy Center, and Child Care of Southwest Florida among many others.

Winners of the 2026 “Passport to Paradise” giveaway, sponsored by Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach, will be announced at the event. The grand prize includes a five-night stay at Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach with a $500 resort credit and sightseeing or sunset cruise for up to four people. Four runner-up prizes will also be awarded and include a two-night stay and a $50 resort credit.

“This year’s kickoff event will be especially meaningful as we commemorate the 70th anniversary of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades,” said Hannah Pelle, interim president and CEO of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. “We have planned an engaging evening that will inspire attendees to support our fundraising efforts and help strengthen the vital programs and services our partner agencies provide throughout the year.”

FineMark Bank & Trust is the signature sponsor for the campaign kickoff. Other sponsorship opportunities for the event are available at the following levels:

• $10,000: Name in the program, recognition as a pacesetter, 10 tickets (one table), a 24-by-18-inch display at the event and recognition on social media and in the United Way newsletter.
• $5,000: Name in the program, recognition as a pacesetter, five tickets, an 11-by-17-inch display at the event and recognition on social media.

• $2,500: Name in the program, recognition as a pacesetter, two tickets, an 8-by-10-inch display at the event and recognition on social media.

For sponsorship inquiries please email Marcia at Marcia@UnitedWayLee.org.

The event will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 1, at Caloosa Sound Convention Center, 1375 Monroe St., Fort Myers, Fla. Tickets are $30 per person or $300 per table of 10 seats. Tickets can be purchased at UnitedWayLee.org/70th-Anniversary-Kickoff.

An afterparty at Bay Street Yard will follow the event with a portion of proceeds from the signature drink, Disco Inferno, benefiting the campaign.