Nearly 200 attendees gathered to recognize outstanding partners and individuals making a lasting difference throughout Indian River County.
United Way of Indian River County welcomed nearly 200 business and community leaders, supporters, and partners to its 2026 Community Leaders’ Breakfast, an annual gathering recognizing the people and organizations working to strengthen Indian River County.
Sponsored by Edward Jones Investments and Lowndes Law Firm, this year’s breakfast featured a keynote conversation with Valerie Lavin, Founder and CEO of Luminary Global, Co-Founder of Action Zone, and a retired U.S. Army First Sargeant. The program also included an update from United Way CEO Meredith Egan and the presentation of the organization’s annual Richardson Spirit of Indian River County Awards and Ralph T. King Award.
The morning offered a look at United Way’s work throughout the community and its goal of raising $3 million to support programs and initiatives addressing critical needs in education, health, and financial stability.
“United Way of Indian River County is growing, and that growth matters because every step forward means more neighbors helped, more families stabilized, and more of our community given a real chance to thrive,” said Meredith Egan. “We have set an ambitious goal this year because the needs in our community are real and our partners are ready. With the support of this community, we can continue expanding our reach and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it.”
A highlight of the morning was a keynote conversation with Lavin, whose work focuses on empowering veterans, first responders, and their families through entrepreneurship and access to resources. Drawing on her own military experience and work helping veterans launch and grow businesses. Lavin shared insights on the transition to civilian life, the value of recognizing untapped potential, and the importance of creating pathways for those who have served to pursue new opportunities
She also addressed the often-overlooked experiences of women veterans, many whom do not identify themselves as veterans or recognize the resources and support available to them. Her discussion underscored the importance of improving awareness, creating connections, and ensuring women who have served are recognized and included in conversations about veteran services and opportunities.
The breakfast also featured a special appearance by Dylan Walker, United Way’s spokes-kid, who joined Egan on stage to introduce a video by Vero Beach Social Media, explaining United Way’s work from a child’s perspective.
The morning’s award presentations recognized three organizations for their outstanding contributions through the Richardson Spirit of Indian River County Awards:
- Workplace Partner Awards – Seacoast Bank: Recognized for 35 years of support through workplace giving, employee volunteerism, and event sponsorships. Seacoast Bank has also been a United Way Torchbearer, a distinction for companies giving $12,000 or more annually, for 17 years.
- Funded Partner Award – Indian River Habitat for Humanity: Recognized for its longstanding commitment to affordable housing, response efforts following Hurricane Milton, and partnership with United Way to provide home repairs for veterans.
- Special Recognition Award – Jackie Robinson Training Complex: Recognized for preserving Jackie Robinson’s legacy and contributing to the area’s economic vitality. The Complex also hosts the annual Jackie Robinson Celebration Game on April 15, naming United Way as its beneficiary.
The morning’s highest honor, the Ralph T. King Award, was presented to Kyle Morgan of Merrill Lynch Morgan Petersen Rinchack in recognition of nearly two decades of dedication to United Way of Indian River County.
Morgan’s involvement has included service on the Board of Directors, participation in the Citizens’ Review Process, volunteering at Day of Caring, and co-chairing the United Way Campaign alongside his wife, Debbie. Today, as Chair of the United Way Foundation, Morgan continues to help shape the organization’s future through efforts to grow its endowment and strengthen the financial foundation that will sustain its work for generations to come.
Named in honor of Ralph T. King, the award recognizes an individual whose extraordinary service, generosity, and commitment have made a lasting difference in United Way and throughout the community.
United Way of Indian River County works to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community. Through strategic investments, partnerships, and direct service initiatives, United Way works to address critical needs and create opportunities for individuals and families throughout Indian River County. To learn more visit UnitedWayIRC.org or call (772) 567-8900.
