As I look back at the stories I’ve shared with you in Publix News through my years as CEO, I realize I haven’t focused on one of our most important campaigns — United Way.

We receive recognition and awards for our service in the community, and we’re widely known as a leader in giving. But one item I’m proud of is the number of associates who give to United Way. When you step back and compare Publix to other companies, I know you’re proud too.

When we talk about United Way, I believe we do a good job explaining how the organization helps those in our communities, and in many cases, the Publix family. It’s also important to know by supporting United Way and United Way agencies, we all benefit. We’re helping each other, our friends, our neighbors and so many people we don’t even know.

I need your help in sharing the story with new associates about why it’s important to be responsible citizens in our communities to help perpetuate our Publix culture.

Mr. George set a great example for all of us, using United Way to invest in the future of the communities we serve. Year after year, you have raised the bar he set. And because of that, we show our appreciation for you during our Publix and United Way Appreciation Day. But it doesn’t stop there; this month, we’ll announce the top retail fund raisers.

Thank you for being so generous. It really does unite us all as a company — and as a family — when we give of our time, talents and financial resources together.

Ed Crenshaw
CEO