United Way of St. Johns & Putnam Counties Announces Over 270K Raised At Annual Givers Gala
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL — On February 7, 2026, United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties hosted its 9th Annual Givers Gala at the Embassy Suites by Hilton St. Augustine Beach. The elegant evening brought together community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters united in their commitment to creating lasting change throughout the region.
"This incredible outpouring of generosity shows what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Carl F. Cricco III, President & CEO of United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties. “It allows us to invest intentionally in programs that strengthen families, build resilience, and create lasting change across our two counties.”
Thanks to the generosity of our community, this year’s sold-out event raised more for the local community than ever before, over $270K! This success was made possible by the continued generosity of The Hutson Companies, our Presenting Sponsor, and RingPower CAT, our Platinum Sponsor. Their ongoing support, along with the generosity of all of our sponsors, played a critical role in the success of the evening and in advancing United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties’ mission.
Guests enjoyed an unforgettable evening of philanthropy, connection, and celebration, all in support of United Way’s work to improve lives through its four impact areas: healthy community, educational opportunity, community resiliency, and financial security.
United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties also had the privilege of recognizing two exceptional individuals for their outstanding service and leadership within our community:
Theresa Odom was presented with the Nancy Burns Trailblazer Award for her compassionate, selfless leadership and lasting impact in Putnam County.
William E. Dudley received the Chair’s Award in recognition of his lifetime of service, leadership, and advocacy for veterans and our community.
Theresa Odom
Theresa Odom, Manager of Kitchen Operations at Bread of Life Palatka, is the recipient of this year’s Nancy Burns Trailblazer Award, which honors individuals who exemplify service, compassion, and selfless leadership. After nearly three decades in a groundbreaking law enforcement career as the first female patrol officer in Putnam County, Theresa found her true calling in community service.
In 2019, what began as a short-term favor helping prepare meals for local families evolved into full-time volunteer leadership during the revival of a struggling soup kitchen. Under Theresa’s guidance, Bread of Life Palatka transformed into a standalone operation that now serves between 125 and 150 lunches daily to food-insecure residents of Putnam County — at no cost and without judgment. Her unwavering dedication and servant leadership reflect the legacy of Nancy Burns, and United Way is proud to honor her trailblazing impact.
William E. Dudley
William E. Dudley, Chairman of the Veterans Council of St. Johns County, was honored with the Chair’s Award for his lifetime of leadership, service, and dedication to both our nation and our local community. A retired United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Mr. Dudley served with distinction on active duty and in the Active Reserve Force before retiring from the military.
Following his military service, Mr. Dudley spent nearly 45 years in executive leadership roles within the aerospace industry, serving as President and CEO of multiple Fortune 500 companies in the United States, United Kingdom, and Singapore. Since retiring in 2000, he has devoted himself fully to veterans advocacy, playing a pivotal role in establishing the Veterans Treatment Court, creating Veterans Village to provide permanent housing for formerly homeless veterans, and expanding access to critical healthcare services for veterans across the region.
His leadership has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Secretary of the Navy’s Superior Public Service Award, the Rear Admiral Kevin Delaney Hall of Fame Award, and the City of St. Augustine’s Order of La Florida — the city’s highest civilian honor. Through his unwavering commitment to service, William E. Dudley has left a lasting legacy of leadership and compassion.
“William Dudley exemplifies what it means to lead with service, integrity, and heart,” said Bobby Crum, Chair of the Board for United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties. “His lifelong commitment to our veterans, our community, and our country has created lasting change, and we are honored to recognize his extraordinary leadership with this year’s Chair’s Award.”
United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties extends its heartfelt thanks to all sponsors, donors, volunteers, and attendees who made the 9th Annual Givers Gala a success. Proceeds from the event will directly support programs and partner agencies that strengthen individuals and families across St. Johns and Putnam Counties.