Welcoming New Faces to the UWCC Board Table
By Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director
There’s an old Italian saying I love: “A tavola non si invecchia” — at the table, one does not grow old. The idea is that when we gather with purpose and connection, time fades and something bigger takes its place: community. At United Way Charlotte County (UWCC), our Board table is one of those special places. This week, we pulled up three new chairs — and with them came fresh energy, powerful stories, and hearts ready to serve. I’m honored to introduce our newest Board Members and share what brought them to the table.
Belinda Campbell is a Charlotte County native and longtime Punta Gorda business owner, with over 20 years of retail experience. She has been actively involved in community initiatives, including Women United, and is deeply committed to supporting women and families in our area.
In her words: “I’m honored to join the UWCC Board of Directors. Giving back to our community has always been close to my heart. After more than 10 years as a local business owner, I’ve seen the difference strong community support can make. I’m excited to continue that work by helping connect resources and opportunities to the people and families who need them most.”
Raised in Arcadia by his single mother and three older sisters, Craig Brandon is a DeSoto County High School graduate who has served Charlotte County in law enforcement for over 25 years. He now leads the Mental Health Unit at the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with Charlotte Behavioral Health Care.
His decision to join the UWCC Board is inspired by a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends."
Craig shared: “This quote has lived with me as an adult, and I constantly fight the temptation to remain silent or passive on issues that affect our community. Being involved with nonprofit organizations that support our community is a great way to embody Dr. King's message. This is why it is important to me to serve on the UWCC Board — it gives me a greater opportunity to serve locally.”
Beth Sargent, Broker Associate, at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has called Charlotte County home since 2000. A dedicated real estate professional, Beth helps families put down roots in this community and is now raising her own two children here with her husband, Keith. She brings a passion for service and a strong belief in the power of local involvement.
Beth says: “I’m thrilled to serve on the UWCC Board of Directors and to partner with their outstanding team of staff and volunteers to make a meaningful difference in our community.”
As we welcome Belinda, Craig, and Beth to the table, we do so with great gratitude and even greater anticipation. Their leadership, commitment, and personal connection to this community reflect everything UWCC stands for. We’re excited for the impact they’ll help make — and we’re proud to have them at the table.
Our table is always growing, and there’s a place for you. When we come together with purpose, time fades and community takes root. Whether you want to volunteer, give, or simply learn more, we invite you to pull up a chair, visit unitedwayccfl.org/Table
For more information about United Way Charlotte County’s mission: Mobilizing the power of our community so all can thrive, please contact Angie Matthiessen, Executive Director. She can be reached at director@unitedwayccfl.org.