2023-2024 Campaign

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has announced that the 2023-2024 United Way Campaign Chairs will be Kevin Karnes and Jay Santos. Additionally, the goal for this year’s campaign has been set at $11,288,681.  Last year’s campaign raised $11,200,000 for the local communities of Lee, Hendry, and Glades.  The theme of this year’s campaign has been established as “Uniting Heroes, Inspiring Hope”.

Kevin Karnes was appointed Clerk of the Court & Comptroller by Gov. DeSantis in March 2022 and was then elected to the position in August 2022 by Lee County voters. He is a legal professional who works to protect and preserve public trust, obtaining his master’s degree in legal studies from American Public University. Prior to his appointment and election, Clerk Karnes had been working at the Clerk's office for over 15 years, where he gained experience in leading team members, managing projects, and implementing legislative changes. Clerk Karnes also serves on the Board of Directors of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades County.

“Throughout my career in public service, I’ve had the opportunity to support many charitable and non-profit organizations and United Way holds a special place in my heart. I am extremely honored to be the Co-Chair of the 2023-2024 United Way of Lee County Campaign. As our community continues to recover from Hurricane Ian, I am humbled to be working with my rock star Co-Chair, Jay Santos, to meet the campaign goal for the 31st consecutive time.   We are excited about the journey ahead and look forward to a fun and prosperous year!” says Kevin Karnes.

Jay Santos is dedicated to community involvement and committed to continuous growth. Jay and his wife Ceyllena have been happily married for 5 years and have been proud Cape Coral residents for 7 years. Jay has built his career in the financial industry, starting as a teller to now serving as a Private Client Manager at Busey Bank. Jay’s significant contributions have garnered recognition, including receiving the prestigious Ed Scharlau Spirit Award in 2021 and being named the 2022 Busey Bank Volunteer of the Year. He is involved in local schools volunteering at Franklin Park Elementary School, a Community Partnership School.  With energy and passion, Jay continuously works towards growth and positive development for his community.

"Being part of the now sunsetted United Way Reading Pals program since 2018, I am absolutely thrilled to take on the role of Co-Chair for the United Way campaign. This exciting opportunity brings together a fantastic team of dedicated staff members and volunteers whose passion and expertise will be key to our journey. Together, we'll make a real impact in the lives of those we serve. I can't wait to dive in and get to work, combining strengths and compassion with the dynamic Lee Clerk of Courts, Kevin Karnes, to create a fun-filled, lasting legacy of care and support." says Santos.

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades has raised and distributed almost $221 million since being established in 1957.  All money raised in the United Way campaign stays in the local community to help support the local human service network. United Way Partner Agencies and initiatives include: The Alvin A Dubin Alzheimer’s Resource Center, Partners for Breast Cancer Care, Midwest Food Bank, the Boys and Girls Clubs, and United Way 211, to mention a few. These agencies serve a diverse range of needs in our community such as nurturing children and youth, strengthening families, meeting critical needs like helping the elderly and disabled live independently, and empowering communities by bringing health and human services to neighborhoods.

In addition to raising funds for human service organizations in our community, United Way promotes partnerships and collaborations among agencies and initiatives, helping them to work together focusing on issues and solutions that continue to improve lives.

For more information, please call United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades (239) 433-2000 or visit UnitedWayLee.org