OFFICE TEAM
President and CEO
Laura Ospina-Knight
Laura has been advancing the mission of United Way of Pasco County since 2019. She began as Campaign Manager & Senior Associate, progressing to Director of Development, Vice President, and now President & CEO. Under her leadership, UWPC has expanded its community impact through initiatives including the Fighting Human Trafficking Program with over $1.5M in State Appropriations Grant, Homeless Prevention Program, COVID-19 relief efforts distributing $2.4 million to local residents and businesses, and the Hurricane Relief Initiative.
Prior to joining UWPC, Laura gained experience at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Venice and Simon Property Group. She holds degrees in Marketing and Operations Management from Florida Gulf Coast University and is currently pursuing her MBA. Laura also serves on the boards of Leadership Pasco, Rotary Club of New Port Richey, and Vincent House Pasco, strengthening her ties to the community she serves.
Benjamin Ortberg
Fighting Human Trafficking Program Manager
Ben has a long history of helping those affected by domestic violence and human trafficking. He began his professional career in military service in the Army and Airforce. Then during his 15 years in law enforcement, he was often the first point of contact for survivors. After these careers, Ben worked as a Victim Advocate, where he accompanied survivors to court hearings, assisted them through the legal process, and provided critical resources and support.
In 2021, Ben joined United Way to develop and operate the Fighting Human Trafficking Program. Initially estimated to assist 12 survivors over three years, the program has grown significantly, serving over 400 survivors with emergency hotel stays, transitional housing, and comprehensive support services. Benjamin helped acquire millions of dollars in funding for this cause. He manages functions such as housing placement and maintenance, casework with the clients, and human trafficking data analysis with doctorate students from University of South Florida’s TIP Lab.
Ben holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He is a Nationally Credentialed Advanced Level Advocate with the Comprehensive Victim Intervention Specialist designation through the National Advocate Credentialing Program. Ben is a member of the Mel Greene Institute to Combat Human Trafficking and the Tampa Bay Safe Alliance.
Executive Assistant
Kimberly Kirk
Kimberly Kirk, originally from Kalamazoo, Michigan, brings more than 25 years of experience in education and administration. She previously served in administrative roles at Emory University and University of Phoenix in Georgia before relocating to Tampa, Florida.
Kimberly currently serves as Executive Assistant to the President/CEO of United Way of Pasco County. In her role, she manages communications, coordinates events and meetings, and helps distribute health and human service resources to the community, including during times of disaster. She leads our VITA intake calls to schedule appointments. She also assists with case management for the Publix Employees Financial Assistance Fund and the Duke Energy Share the Light Fund.
Community Impact and Allocations Manager
Andrea Toro
Andrea Toro earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of South Florida in 2023. At United Way of Pasco, Andrea has been instrumental at managing the volunteers and resource distribution for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. She oversees inventory and corresponds scheduling to site leaders. Andrea’s exceptional graphic design skills came in handy with designing VITA promotional materials, fundraising event materials, and reports and pamphlets. She is currently writing grants for the organization. Every spring and summer, Andrea manages the Community Impact Grant Application process, scheduling and interviewing agencies; leading panels; conveying the grant allocation to agencies.
Andrea's professional journey includes working as a substitute teacher, where she supported students of all ages and abilities, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. She also brings valuable experience in IT support, adept at resolving complex technical issues with exceptional customer service. Certified in Google Data Analytics, Andrea excels in strategic planning and data analysis.
Operations Assistant
Yuliia Skorobohatova
Yuliiaa graduate of Donetsk National University, Yuliia has extensive accounting experience in Ukraine, including serving as Chief Accountant for a distribution company and managing accounts for over 20 firms. After relocating to the U.S., she completed accounting training at the New York School and brings dedication and enthusiasm to nonprofit finance.
(727) 247-2275
Senior Associate of Strategic Partnerships
Marissa Abanico
Marissa Abanico, M.A. in Communication and Public Relations, serves as Senior Associate of Strategic Partnerships at United Way of Pasco County. In this role, she cultivates relationships with over 40 local businesses to expand community support, engagement, and volunteerism. Marissa has been instrumental in creating signature programs and events, including the Pull for Pasco fundraiser, the Light Up the Night human trafficking awareness event, and the organization’s first Holiday Meal and Toy Drives. She also leads collaborations with corporations and schools to maximize community impact.
In addition, Marissa develops compelling marketing materials, crafts grant proposals ranging from small private grants to large federal funding, and prepares high-level communications including presidential letters, press releases, and media pitches. Her work ensures that UWPC’s initiatives are effectively promoted and that community stakeholders are informed and engaged.