Dave and Debbie Walker have made a $1 Million donation to United Way Suncoast for community children.

“The Walker gift will support underserved children and families through a variety of educational early literacy initiatives across the Suncoast service area including Hillsborough, Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota and DeSoto counties,” said Suzanne McCormick, president and CEO of United Way Suncoast. “Not only are the Walkers incredibly generous with their support here on the Suncoast, they are also making an additional $1 Million gift to United Way of Greater Cincinnati to support Every Child Succeeds, an early literacy initiative there.”

The Walkers retired to the Tampa Bay area more than a decade ago, following a successful career with Procter & Gamble in Cincinnati. Dave has been a United Way donor and volunteer for decades. Over the last three decades he has served on the Board for Every Child Succeeds, United Way of Greater Cincinnati, United Way of Pasco County and United Way Suncoast.

“Intervening early is always better, more effective and more financially efficient,” said Walker. “When a child falls behind, it’s harder to get back on course as the child gets further along. Debbie and I want to help more children excel and achieve their full potential as financially secure adults.”

United Way Suncoast serves the people of DeSoto, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties by operating and funding support services and programs to help create a stronger, more vibrant community.