The East Orlando Chamber Local Charities Luncheon presents
"Show Me The Money!"
Presented by Deseret Cattle and Citrus
Featuring Erik Sandoval, Investigative Reporter for News 6 and moderator for our distinguished panel:
- Megan Almasi, Sr. Director of Community Relations (Orlando Health)
- Mia Poinsette, Founder & Executive Director (Poinsette Foundation) &
- Karlene Santiago, Senior Community Engagement Coordinator (Orlando Utilities Commission)
Highlighting & supporting 5 local nonprofit organization this holiday season.
Congratulations to our 2024 Charities of Choice:
- Beyond the Leash Foundation, Inc.
- Central Florida Public Media
- Christian Service Center of Central Florida
- IDignity
- UCP of Central Florida
Nonprofit organizations reflect the essence and principles of our community by providing ongoing assistance to individuals and families. Their impact extends far beyond the direct recipients of their services, creating a significant economic influence.
Each November, the East Orlando Chamber acknowledges and honors these contributions at the annual Local Charities Luncheon. Through a selection process by a dedicated committee, local nonprofit organizations are chosen to spotlight their achievements, promote their missions, and raise awareness about their pressing needs.
The East Orlando Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for an exciting event inspired by the iconic movie "Jerry Maguire" for their upcoming Local Charities Luncheon. With the theme "Show Me the Money!", the chamber aims to celebrate and support local charitable organizations in a dynamic and engaging way. This event not only highlights the invaluable contributions of these nonprofits to our community but also encourages attendees to rally behind their missions enthusiastically with your time, talent and treasure. Just as Jerry Maguire passionately advocated for his clients, the chamber invites members and guests to embrace the spirit of generosity and empowerment, ensuring that local charities receive the vital resources they need to thrive and make a lasting impact.
Investigative reporter, Erik Sandoval joined the News 6 team as a reporter in May 2013. During his time at News 6, Erik has brought the experience of several major stories directly to viewers. He was one of the first reporters live on-the-air the morning of the Pulse Nightclub shooting, he has reported knee-deep in hurricane-spawned floodwaters, and he also helped an entire neighborhood land millions of state dollars to slow speeding drivers on their streets.
Prior to News 6, Erik was a reporter and anchor at Northwest Cable News and KING-TV in Seattle Washington. He has also worked in California, Illinois and Texas.
Megan Almasi, Sr. Director of Community Relations (Orlando Health). Megan Almasi serves as the Senior Director of Community Relations for Orlando Health, a nonprofit healthcare system with facilities in Florida and Puerto Rico. In the role, she manages a team of 12 to strategically drive community outreach and impact for the organization. The team is responsible for corporate sponsorships, external partnerships, team member volunteerism, and nonprofit board service. Prior to stepping into the senior director role, Megan served as the Community Relations Manager covering Orlando Health’s Northeast Region for five years.
Mia Poinsette is the founder and Executive Director of the Poinsette Foundation. The 501(c)(3) self-funded nonprofit organization underwrites educational programs and outings for children in Orange and Osceola Counties. Mia Poinsette’s journey—from relying on community support to becoming a force for positive change—is truly inspiring. Her commitment to giving back serves as a beacon for others, reminding us that anything is possible when we walk in our purpose and passion.
Karlene Santiago, Senior Community Engagement Coordinator (Orlando Utilities Commission). Karlene Santiago is the Senior Community Engagement Coordinator at the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC). She has been with OUC since 2006, starting as a Co-Op Student and progressing through various roles, including Human Resources Specialist and Community Engagement Coordinator. Karlene holds an Associate of Arts degree in General Studies from Valencia College and a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal/Organizational Communication from the University of Central Florida. Her career has been marked by a strong commitment to community engagement and development.