Investing in People First
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
What do a quiet staff retreat and a world-renowned leadership summit have in common? More than you might think.
Each year, I look forward to the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) — two days of powerful ideas, inspiring stories, and practical tools for growth. This year, however, I was high in the mountains on a reflective — and at times grueling — family hiking trip. While I was off the grid, my incredible team stepped in to represent us at the summit.
They joined about 120 community members, including representatives from at least seven nonprofits, local businesses, individuals, and faith leaders. At the same time, thousands more leaders participated virtually around the world — all united by one purpose: to grow as people and leaders.
Just two weeks earlier, our own United Way Charlotte County team had gathered for our annual staff retreat — a day focused on connection, team wellness, and important internal work. We dug into our Thriving United Way Assessment, refined team roles to strengthen how we serve, and — just as important — made time to care for ourselves.
A highlight of the day was the Mobile Mood Pantry, provided by Park Royal Behavioral Health Services, a private psychiatric hospital offering both inpatient and outpatient care. The pantry offered many mindfulness tools, mental health resources, and relaxation aids — a powerful reminder that to serve others well, we must also nurture ourselves.
Dawn Forlini summed it up beautifully: "The Mobile Mood Pantry gave me practical tools to manage stress, improve focus, and enhance my overall well-being. I always look forward to the staff retreat because it brings our team together and creates clarity and focus for the upcoming year."
The retreat laid the foundation. The summit built on it.
If you've never experienced GLS, know this: it’s not just for executives or “professional leaders.” It's for everyone. And it's far from “just another leadership seminar.” This year’s summit featured powerful stories, vulnerable truths, and bold ideas — all delivered by some of the most respected voices in leadership today. You can’t attend and not walk away inspired.
Our team came back energized, armed with pages of notes, and ready to share insights with each other and across our organization. Quotes from Coach Nick Saban especially resonated: “Be a champion” and “There is no ‘I’ in team — but there is ‘I’ in win. That ‘I’ represents the individuals that make up the team”.
It sparked meaningful conversation about accountability, shared purpose, and the consistency needed to achieve collective success. The ripple effect has already begun.
From both the retreat and the summit, the message was clear: the most valuable investment any organization can make is in its people. When we lead with care, foster growth, create space for reflection and simplify approaches, we lay the groundwork for lasting impact. From the staff room to the summit, one truth rings out: inspired people, inspire change. Let’s keep investing in what matters most.
If you’re looking to refuel your passion, connect with others, and invest in yourself or your team, mark your calendar for GLS 2026. Please visit unitedwayccfl.org/StaffRetreat
For more information about United Way of Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community to break the cycle of poverty, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.