Volunteer Spotlight: Bruce Abels

Bruce Abels is a born leader driven to surpass the goals set on any project he undertakes. Those who know him understand that he is not one to tolerate “gobbledygook” or to waste time when he is on a mission. 

Retired President of Saddle Creek Logistics Services, Bruce was the first Chair of the United Way’s Health Steering Team in 2009 and continues in that position today.  Under his leadership, a year-long study of community health needs was conducted.  Building on existing studies and feedback from experts including hospital administrators, doctors, nurses and the Polk County Health Department, target issues and indicators were established.  In order to maintain funding, United Way Health Partners must demonstrate that they (1) can reduce avoidable Emergency Room visits, hospitalizations, institutionalizations or incarcerations related to substance abuse, or (2) demonstrate that their patients have improved health indicators including but not limited to blood pressure, blood sugars or body mass index.

Bruce also serves on the United Way’s Community Impact Cabinet.  The Cabinet is responsible for establishing funding priorities to assure donors that their investment in the United Way is used to impact lives in measurable and sustainable ways.

In addition, Bruce has served as a board member for Central Florida Speech & Hearing, Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, the Salvation Army, Polk Theatre, and VISTE. Generous with his time, talent and treasure, Bruce has been a member of the Tocqueville Society for more than a decade. 

Thank you, Bruce, for helping to improve people’s health in Polk, Hardee and Highlands counties!