For more than 40 years, National Philanthropy Day has highlighted individuals and organizations whose leadership and generosity strengthen our communities. United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA) is proud to celebrate the achievements of three honorees, who were recognized by the Alabama Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals at the annual luncheon on November 15th.
AmFirst Honored as Wells Fargo Outstanding Corporate Citizen
America’s First Federal Credit Union (AmFirst) received the Wells Fargo Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award for its longstanding partnership with United Way.
Founded in 1936 by 19 U.S. Steel employees who pooled $1,500 in a cigar box, AmFirst now serves more than 200,000 members while staying committed to community stability and opportunity.
“At AmFirst, our commitment to community is one of our core values and a driving force behind everything we do,” said Jody Mattson, Director of Philanthropy and Community Engagement.
In 2024 alone, AmFirst contributed more than $339,000 to United Way; and its employees volunteered more than 1,800 hours with local nonprofits.
Through initiatives such as Community First and consistent support of United Way Hands On, AmFirst is truly an exemplary corporate citizen.
As Rachael Upton, Director of Volunteer Engagement at United Way Hands On, said, “AmFirst doesn’t just participate — it invests, follows through and asks what more it can do.”
Will Brooke Sr. Recognized as United Way of Central Alabama Civic Leader
AFP recognized William “Will” Brooke Sr., attorney, business leader, investor and philanthropist for his exceptional civic leadership and commitment to elevating communities across Alabama.
After retiring from Harbert Management Corp. in 2021, Brooke has dedicated much of his time and energy to philanthropic efforts alongside his wife, Maggie.
Together, they have supported a range of causes, including endowed scholarships and faculty funds at The University of Alabama, their alma mater, as well as longstanding involvement with United Way as Tocqueville Society members.
Brooke attributes his passion for giving to both faith and family.
“My faith taught me to give back; my father-in-law showed me how to do that, and my wife Maggie has encouraged us to do more,” he said.
His approach to philanthropy has always been hands-on, fueled not only by purpose but by joy.
“As it turns out, participating and giving are fun,” he said. “That’s what keeps pulling us deeper.”
Katrina Watson Receives the William S. Roth Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award
The Alabama Chapter of AFP awarded Katrina Watson, a respected leader in Alabama’s nonprofit landscape, with the William S. Roth Outstanding Fundraising Executive Award for her achievements in advancing philanthropy and empowering community impact.
As Senior Vice President of Community Impact at United Way, Watson oversees the annual distribution of more than $30 million to nonprofits and leads innovative efforts such as LEARN United, a professional development program designed specifically for nonprofit leaders, offering expert guidance across a wide range of disciplines.
“Philanthropy and fundraising are about people,” Watson said. “The word ‘philanthropy’ means love of mankind, and that love begins with building genuine relationships and identifying shared values.”
Over the course of her career, Katrina has raised tens of millions of dollars, taught fundraising at UAB, led The Literacy Council of Central Alabama (a United Way partner agency) and lent her skills to organizations such as Momentum, Rotary Club of Birmingham and the Barbara Bush Foundation.
Leigh A. Kaylor Recognized as Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham Outstanding Professional Advisor
For more than three decades, Leigh A. Kaylor has helped families and individuals across Alabama shape their financial futures and strengthen their philanthropic impact.
Since joining Dentons Sirote in Birmingham in 1997, she has served as an attorney in the firm’s Trusts, Estates and Wealth Preservation practice.
Kaylor has also dedicated seven years as a United Way of Central Alabama Visiting Allocation Chair. Each year, community members like Kaylor step up to serve on our Visiting Allocation Team (VAT), helping United Way of Central Alabama make thoughtful, informed and strategic funding decisions — shaping programs that touch thousands of lives.
“During this time, she has played a key role in training new chairs and providing ongoing support for VAT across the entire UWCA 6-county footprint,” shared Shakeitha Tatum, Vice President of Agency Relations at United Way.
These four honorees personify collaboration, leadership and the spirit of community. Their impact strengthens not only United Way’s work, but the fabric of Central Alabama itself.
To learn more about United Way’s impact, click here.