Every successful journey begins with someone willing to believe in another person’s potential. That message is at the heart of the United Way of Southwest Alabama’s 2026 Annual Meeting and Campaign Kickoff, where nationally recognized speaker, author, and executive Ronnie Stallworth, Sr. will share his remarkable story of resilience, determination, and hope.

The breakfast event will be held Thursday, August 27, at Crown Hall in downtown Mobile. Community leaders, volunteers, businesses, and supporters will gather to celebrate another year of impact, recognize outstanding leadership, and officially launch the 2026 United Way Campaign.

This year’s campaign encourages our community to Cross the Finish Line together. It reflects the shared commitment required to strengthen Southwest Alabama by investing in programs that help children succeed, families achieve financial stability, individuals live healthier lives, and communities become more resilient. United Way’s message remains constant: United Is The Way™ We Build Stronger Communities.

Stallworth’s own story demonstrates what can happen when perseverance meets opportunity. Raised in extreme poverty in the Deep South, he entered school in remedial classes, lost his father as a teenager, and experienced homelessness while finishing high school. At 18, a family recognized his potential, helped him secure his first job, and changed the trajectory of his life.

While working full time, Stallworth spent fourteen years earning his degree in Chemical Engineering before completing an MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He went on to serve in executive leadership positions with Fortune 100 companies and today serves on four boards, including as President of the University of South Alabama National Alumni Association. His bestselling book, Cracks in the Wall, and his keynote presentations challenge audiences to recognize the “Hidden Gems” around them and invest in the potential of others.

That message closely reflects the work of United Way. Every day, United Way brings together businesses, nonprofit partner agencies, government, volunteers, and donors to create opportunities that strengthen lives across Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile, and Washington counties. Success is never achieved by one organization alone. It happens when a community works together toward a common goal.

Following the keynote, Stallworth will be available for a book signing. The program will also feature United Way’s awards recognizing individuals and organizations whose leadership and service have helped improve lives throughout Southwest Alabama.

oors open at 8:00 a.m., with breakfast and the program beginning at 8:30 a.m. Seating is limited. Individual tickets are $150, and sponsorship opportunities with reserved tables for eight are available.

As United Way launches its 2026 Campaign, the invitation is simple. Together, we can Cross the Finish Line because United Is The Way™ We Build Stronger Communities.

Click here for sponsorship opportunities or contact Lauren Luckie-Merz at lluckie@uwswa.org or 251.433.3624.