Palm Beach County is in the midst of remarkable growth. New businesses are opening, industries are expanding, and investment continues to fuel fresh opportunities across the region. With this momentum comes an important responsibility: ensuring that progress is inclusive and that the benefits of economic growth reach the working families who sustain our community every day.
That question was at the heart of our United, We Thrive Impact Luncheon, where leaders from across the business, government, education, and nonprofit sectors gathered for a provocative and forward-thinking conversation. The event served as both a reflection on where our community stands today and a call to action for how we move forward together.
Our President & CEO Dr. Laurie George, alongside our Board Chair Tony Hunter, opened the program by emphasizing the importance of aligning economic expansion with equitable opportunity. Their message was clear: growth alone is not enough. True progress is measured by how well we support the individuals and families who are working hard yet still struggling to make ends meet.
In Palm Beach County, nearly half of households are below the ALICE threshold. ALICE, which stands for Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed, represents individuals and families who earn above the federal poverty level but still cannot consistently afford necessities such as housing, childcare, food, transportation, and healthcare. These neighbors are the backbone of our workforce.
Investing in ALICE households is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic one. When families have access to stable housing, quality childcare, and reliable transportation, they are better positioned to succeed. In turn, businesses benefit from a stronger, more dependable talent pipeline, and the entire community becomes more resilient and prosperous.
The luncheon also provided an opportunity to celebrate individuals who are making a lasting impact on Palm Beach County. Our Emeritus Director, George Elmore, was recognized with our first-ever Legacy of Impact Award, honoring a lifetime of leadership, generosity, and dedication to strengthening the community.
Additionally, Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Michael Mahoney was recognized as Volunteer of the Year, highlighting his exceptional commitment to service and his meaningful contributions to improving young lives across the county.
A dynamic panel discussion, moderated by Fabiola Brumley, President and Senior Public Policy Lead at Bank of America, brought together community leaders Mike Burke, the School District of Palm Beach County’s Superintendent, Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller, Mike Caruso, and the Economic Council of Palm Beach County’s President and CEO, Michele Jacobs.
The conversation explored the challenges and opportunities of rapid growth, and the critical role of cross-sector collaboration in building a future where everyone has an opportunity to thrive. From workforce development to affordable housing, the discussion underscored that sustainable progress depends on strong partnerships and shared accountability.
Strong workplaces build strong communities, and our top campaigns are leading the way. Our top workplace campaigns have shown what it means to lead with purpose and give back to the community. Through their commitment to giving back, these organizations are helping expand opportunity across Palm Beach County:
The success of our United, We Thrive Impact Luncheon was made possible through the generous support of sponsors who are deeply invested in the future of Palm Beach County.
Special thanks to Publix Super Markets Charities, TBC Corporation, Baptist Health, NCCI, Deloitte, NextEra Energy, Inc., Florida Power & Light, Flagler Credit Union, Julie F. and Peter D. Cummings, Kerry Diaz Consulting, and Shutts & Bowen for their commitment to advancing this important work.
As Palm Beach County continues to grow, the path forward is clear. By working together, across sectors and industries, we can ensure that growth translates into opportunity for all. Because when every family has the support they need to succeed, our entire Palm Beach County community thrives.
Thank you to our emcee, Liz Quirantes, for guiding a powerful and engaging conversation.
Join us by volunteering, mentoring, or giving, because together, we can SERVE MORE PEOPLE.
Photos: Tracey Benson Photography
