Uniting people in these divisive times is challenging. And it’s even harder during a pandemic. But our 2022 Unity winners (our 12th annual honorees) have been motivated by the idea that we’re stronger and better as a community when people of different backgrounds come together. Our winners have provided meaningful work for people with disabilities, baseball in underserved communities, a cultural center for the Latinx community, a place of safety for LGBTQ youth, advocacy for victims of sexual assault in the military and caring for the homeless. We are a better place because of their passion and commitment.

In This Feature:

Former MLB Star Ian Desmond and Biz Pro Vince Northfield Help Underserved Youth

Their nonprofit, Newtown Connection, uses baseball to teach healthy living, leadership and inclusion.

01/04/2022 By Susan Burns

Nancy Parrish Is Reforming the Military Justice System

Parrish's Protect Our Defenders is the preeminent organization dedicated to ending the epidemic of sexual violence, victim retaliation and racism in the military.

01/04/2022 By Heather Dunhill

With Rise & Nye's, Beaver Shriver Created a Workplace of Dignity for People With Developmental Disabilities

“It’s a human rights movement disguised as a coffee and ice cream shop."

01/04/2022 By Cooper Levey-Baker

Carolina Franco Is Building a Hub for the Spanish-Speaking Community

Franco welcomes people of all ages to CreArte Latino Cultural Center, where she serves as co-founder, president and artistic director.

01/04/2022 By Kay Kipling

Streets of Paradise's Greg Cruz Fights Homelessness in Sarasota-Manatee

“Anywhere that we can help with this homeless crisis, we will be on the frontlines. No questions asked.”

01/04/2022 By Marc Griffin

Mary Tavarozzi Gives LGBTQ Youth a Place to Socialize

"I wanted to make sure Florida youth didn’t become a statistic in terms of self-harm or addiction or homelessness. I want them to know they can live life out and proud here.”

01/04/2022 By Megan McDonald

Rev. Dr. Wes Bixby Is Making Church a Place of Diversity and Inclusion

“The church and Christianity haven’t been and still aren’t always a safe place for folks. We know it takes a tremendous amount of courage to cross the threshold."

01/04/2022 By Allison Forsyth

Harvest House CEO Erin Minor Helps People in Crisis

Harvest House now has eight campuses with emergency shelters, transitional housing and 25 affordable rentals in Sarasota-Manatee.

01/04/2022 By Kim Doleatto