Carl F. Cricco is president and CEO of United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties.
Tell us about United Way and the resources it offers.
Our work is really about strengthening the safety net for our community.
We provide grants to local nonprofits through our Community Impact Fund and Student Mental Health Grant Fund, offer free tax preparation through VITA, collect tons of food for local food pantries through Stamp Out Hunger and provide emergency financial assistance to working families who are struggling with the rising cost of living.
We also work closely with nonprofits, businesses and community leaders to identify needs and bring resources together to address them.
What do you like best about what you do?
Being able to bring a little calm and peace to someone experiencing deep financial stress.
Many of the families we help are working and doing everything they can to stay afloat, but one unexpected expense — a medical bill, car repair or other emergency — can put them underwater. Knowing we can step in at that moment and help someone regain stability is incredibly rewarding.
What is a typical day like for you?
There really isn’t a typical day, which is one of the things I enjoy about the job. I might start by making sure emergency assistance requests are being addressed, then meet with local nonprofits or community leaders about emerging needs. Depending on the time of year, I’m also overseeing events like our Givers Gala or Putnam Jubilee, working on workplace giving campaigns, meeting with donors and businesses or speaking with the media about the needs facing our community.
A big part of my role is simply listening and figuring out how United Way can be most effective at any given moment.
Are you from this area originally?
I’m originally from Hoboken, New Jersey, and have spent all of my life in the New York City area. I was such a city kid that I didn’t even learn to drive until I was 31!
Eventually, my wife and I wanted a slower, calmer pace and a great place to raise our children. St. Augustine gave us that, while still having a tremendous sense of community.
What do you like best about living here?
The people. There’s a genuine sense of community here, and people really do show up for one another. Add in the beach, the weather, the history and how family-oriented the area is, and it’s a pretty special place to raise a family.
How do you like to spend your free time?
My wife and I have three young children — 6, 3 and 9 months — so “free time” has a slightly different meaning these days! I have an incredible wife and family, and pretty much all of my time outside of work is spent with them. Whether we’re swimming in the pool, heading to the beach or going on little adventures around St. Augustine, that’s where I’m happiest.
