In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams welcomes Jessica Muroff, CEO of United Way Suncoast.

Jessica shares the deeply personal reasons that drive her work, balancing a demanding career with family life, and the journey that led her to helm United Way Suncoast, transitioning from the for-profit sector to a role where community impact is the bottom line. She then illuminates the concept of "Freedom to Rise", discussing the critical insights from the United Way Suncoast's ALICE report and underscoring the organization's commitment to economic mobility and the transformative power of community support.

Join Dr. Tonjua Williams and Jessica Muroff in their conversation as they highlight the importance of courageous determination and emotional intelligence, which guide navigating difficult decisions and standing in the gap for those in need. And learn how you can support United Way Suncoast’s mission, be part of the solution, and the myriad of ways Jessica and her team are making a difference in the lives of many.

Tune in and be part of those who are creating a tangible impact in their community today - Let's give others the freedom to rise!

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KEY POINTS

• [01:10] - The mission & impetus behind Jessica’s work
• [02:26] - How Jessica and her husband balance family and career
• [03:59] - On embarking on the journey with United Way
• [06:16] - Jessica’s experience from for-profit to non-profit type of job
• [08:21] - What is Freedom to Rise?
• [09:40] - United Way Suncoast’s ALICE report
• [10:39] - To see individuals rise with SPC’s pillar: economic mobility
• [12:12] - Breakdown of the transformational community gift from MacKenzie Scott
• [16:39] - The gaps that continue to widen in our communities aside from workforce
• [19:57] - On important matters amidst speed of change: Innovative options
• [22:08] - How to build navigation and direct it to people who need it
• [23:56] On United Way’s support for housing
• [25:37] - Heartfelt experiences of working with United Way
• [29:07] - Ways to support the United Way
• [30:58] - How Jessica and her team stand in the gap
• [33:42] - On navigating difficult decisions and uncomfortable situations
• [36:31] - How Jessica helps in her team’s emotional intelligence
• [39:05] - How to be involved with United Way

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QUOTABLES

“A title doesn't make you, you make the title.” — Dr. Tonjua Williams

“What does it mean to work at United Way Suncoast? And what behaviors do we build and celebrate that help us get our work done? One of those is to act with courageous determination. Be present. Those are considered impacts. These are some of our Suncoast codes, which help us show up every day for our teammates in the best ways possible.” — Jessica Muroff

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RESOURCES:

Jessica Muroff

LinkedIn | @jessicamuroff

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United Way Suncoast

Website | unitedwaysuncoast.org

LinkedIn | @united-way-of-tampa-bay

IG | @unitedwaysuncoast

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St. Petersburg College

Website | St. Petersburg College

Facebook | @stpetecollege

IG | @stpetersburgcollege

YouTube | @SPC

LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college

X | @spcnews

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Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/