July 1, 2025 – United Way of St. Johns County has a new name, but the same unwavering mission. The organization will now operate as United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties to more accurately reflect its active presence and deepening commitment across both counties. The organization’s Board of Directors unanimously voted in favor of the name change, signaling full support for this expanded regional identity. 

“This change is more than a name. It’s a recognition of the work already happening in both counties and our continued promise to serve our community,” said Bobby Crum, Board Chair of United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties. “We’re united in mission, united in service, and now united in name.” 

United Way has actively invested in Putnam County for years by supporting local nonprofit agencies, mobilizing volunteers, and addressing urgent community needs. Since 2019, United Way has offered free tax preparation services in Putnam County through its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, serving residents at nine locations across both counties this year alone. The program helped file 1,565 tax returns and returned over $1.5 million in refunds to local individuals and families, making a meaningful impact on household financial security. 

Carl F. Cricco III, CEO of United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties, added, “Our commitment to Putnam County is deep and growing. From fighting food insecurity to supporting early education and crisis response, the partnerships we’ve built are making a real difference. Changing our name was a clear and unanimous decision—it reflects the reality that our neighbors in Putnam are just as central to our mission as those in St. Johns.” 

United Way is also committed to the future of our youth by supporting vital mental health programs in both Putnam and St. Johns Counties through our student mental health grant. These initiatives promote emotional, social, and academic success—fostering both immediate and lasting well-being. Thanks to the generous support of the Delores Barr Weaver Legacy Funds, United Way is proud to commit $190,000 by the end of next year to accelerate this critical work and ensure our next generation has the support they need to thrive. 

To celebrate this expanded identity, United Way will host the first-ever Putnam Jubilee on November 14 at Coventry Oaks. The event is designed to bring the community together for an evening of connection, celebration, and purpose. All funds raised will directly support programs in Putnam County. For more information, please visit https://putnamjubilee.givesmart.com or reach out to Meghan Durden at meghan.durden@unitedway-sjc.org. 

 
To learn more or get involved, visit unitedway-sjc.org or follow us on social media @unitedwaysjc. 

About United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties 

United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties is the only organization that brings together agencies, businesses, organizations, faith-based groups, government, and individuals to focus on the community problems that matter most. Partners share the vision and have the energy, passion, expertise, and resources to get the work done. For over 65 years, United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties has improved lives and built a strong, healthy community by strategically investing in quality programs, building partnerships, advocating for better policies, engaging the community, and leveraging resources. Success is measured not by dollars raised, but by lives improved and changed. 

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Media Contact: 

Anna Crum 
Director of Marketing and Communications 
904-829-9721 | anna.crum@unitedway-sjc.org