The United Way of Martin County Foundation was proud to announce Andy and Lorraine Popky as the 2026 Frances Langford Humanitarian Award recipients on February 16 at Piper’s Landing. This prestigious award recognizes community philanthropists who demonstrate care, compassion and commitment in support of United Way and the non-profit sector.
For Andy and Lorraine, giving back has been a lifelong commitment.
Fifteen years ago, Andy and Lorraine chose Martin County as the place to begin their next chapter. Originally from Long Island, New York, they quickly embraced the relationships and lifestyle that make this community so special – immersing themselves in neighborhood life and building meaningful connections along the way.
Their journey here was shaped by decades of hard work, leadership, and perseverance. Lorraine retired from a distinguished career with Ameriprise Financial, while Andy built his company, Tombstone City, from the ground up in the machine tool industry. Guided by trust, integrity, and strong partnerships, Andy grew a successful business rooted in collaboration and sealed with a good old-fashioned handshake. Together, they built a life that not only afforded them success, but also the time and opportunity to give back.
That spirit of generosity led them to United Way, where its work across education, health, and financial stability deeply resonated. As members of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society, Andy and Lorraine have helped improve the lives of thousands of Martin County residents over the past decade.
Their commitment to service extends beyond a single organization. Andy is also set to participate in House of Hope’s Top Chef event – bringing his self-proclaimed lack of cooking skills to the stage in support of neighbors facing food insecurity. It’s this blend of humility, humor, and heart that defines their approach to giving.
“We’ve always believed that if you’re in a position to help, you should,” said Andy and Lorraine Popky. “Martin County has given us so much, and being able to give back – whether that’s through United Way or even a Top Chef event where I probably shouldn’t be trusted in the kitchen – is something we truly enjoy.”
Together, Andy and Lorraine embody the compassion and humanitarian spirit that Frances Langford envisioned for Martin County. Through their generosity and service, they continue to strengthen the community they love – helping ensure Martin County remains not just a wonderful place to live, but a place where all can thrive.
The award was named in honor of the famed singer, actress, philanthropist and long-time resident of Martin County, Frances Langford who trusted United Way with the dual mandate of transforming lives and fortifying community bonds. Frances also served as the pioneering chair of United Way’s Alexis de Tocqueville Society, igniting a legacy of leadership. Her dedication and commitment to community advancement has played an integral role in shaping the organization into the agent of change it is today. .png)
Previous Frances Langford Humanitarian Award recipients include:
- 2025 – Muffin & John Adamiak
- 2024 – Betsy Herold
- 2022 – Bob & Karen Croce
- 2021 – Fred & Betty Kopf*
- 2020 – John & Linda Loewenberg
- 2019 – Joe & Margaret Richebourg Temple*
- 2018 – Bob & Jan* Crandall / Bill & Audrey Crandall
- 2017 – H. William Lichtenberger
- 2016 – John* & Susan Sullivan
- 2015 – Douglass* & Patricia Stewart
- 2014 – Prestley & Helen Blake*
- 2013 – Barbara Briggs Trimble*
- 2011 – Robert & Carol* Weissman
*Passed away
During the reception, the Foundation shared updates on United Way of Martin County’s efforts to address transportation, disaster recovery, and federal budget cuts. Thanks to initiatives like Ride United, transportation is no longer one of the top 10 unmet needs in Martin County. United Way was also selected by the County’s Emergency Operations Center to serve as the central hub for disaster recovery efforts.
Additionally, the organization made targeted investments to help offset the impact of federal budget cuts, including $20,000 to House of Hope to support expanded pantry services and emergency assistance, and $20,000 to the Council on Aging of Martin County to ensure seniors continued to have access to food, support services, and basic necessities.
These investments reflect United Way’s commitment to addressing gaps in real time and supporting partners on the front lines of service.
Thank you to our Reception Sponsors Bill Crandall and Bob Crandall & Ellyn Stevenson; and to our additional sponsors who helped make this event possible: Betsy Herold, Robert Weissman, Seacoast Wealth Management, Carol Webb, HBK CPAs & Consultants and HBKS Wealth Advisors, Muffin & John Adamiak, SouthState, Keane Thomas & Pinnacoli, and Sandhill Cove.
About United Way of Martin County Foundation
The United Way of Martin County Foundation is an independent public charity dedicated to securing the future of our community. By accepting legacy gifts and building a robust endowment fund, the Foundation is uniquely positioned to address the current and future unmet needs of Martin County. For more information about United Way of Martin County Foundation, please visit: UnitedWayMartin.org/Foundation