Jobs organization leaves United Way for Chamber

SARASOTA — CareerEdge Funders Collaborative announced it will move its operational functions from United Way Suncoast to the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce by early summer. 

CareerEdge is a partnership of business, government and philanthropic organizations that leverages public and private dollars to provide opportunities for better jobs and wages in Manatee and Sarasota counties. 

United Way has been its home for the past two years. According to a press release, the changes comes in response to "continued growth, which requires a sharper focus on economic and talent development for the region." 

Gulf Coast Community Foundation will continue its role as fiscal agent, which it has done since CareerEdge's inception in 2010. CareerEdge is also pursuing 501(c)(3) incorporation as a way to grow new revenue avenues. 

Mireya Eavey has resigned as Sarasota area president for United Way Suncoast to become the chief workforce strategist at the Chamber, a newly created position. At United Way, she managed the CareerEdge team. At the Chamber, she will continue her leadership role with CareerEdge. 

Despite the split from United Way, the statement says CareerEdge will continue to support and collaborate with United Way Suncoast financial stability initiatives.