In the latest episode of the Herlihy Family Law Podcast, attorney Alison Herlihy sits down with a very special guest—her sister, Justine Herlihy Bixler, President and CEO of United Way of Southwest Alabama. This inspiring conversation explores the critical work United Way does to uplift families, support children, and build a resilient, thriving community throughout Mobile and the surrounding counties.

A Legacy of Service

Justine shares how her journey into nonprofit work was sparked by her early experiences in the legal field—particularly while working on claims related to the BP oil spill. Witnessing firsthand how economic hardship can strike unexpectedly, she felt a calling to create a safety net for people in crisis. That mission has led her to United Way, where she now oversees programs and partnerships that directly impact more than 300,000 people annually across Mobile, Clarke, Choctaw, and Washington Counties.

United Way’s Four Impact Areas

Justine explains United Way’s mission to improve quality of life by focusing on four key areas:

1. Health – Ensuring access to physical and mental health care.
2. Financial Stability – Supporting families through crises and helping them build long-term economic security.
3. Resilient Communities – Strengthening the community’s ability to respond to both personal and large-scale disasters.
4. Youth Opportunity – Empowering children and young adults to reach their full potential, especially during critical early development years.

Resources for Families in Transition

Alison and Justine delve into how divorce can bring unexpected financial and emotional strain—and how United Way and its partner agencies can help. Justine highlights several resources that could benefit families navigating difficult transitions:

• 2-1-1 Help Line – A 24/7 confidential service that connects individuals to local nonprofits offering everything from food assistance to childcare and healthcare services. It’s like a matchmaking app for needs and resources.
• Lifelines Counseling Services – Offers counseling for adults and children, as well as financial coaching and homebuying support.
• Penelope House – Provides emergency and transitional shelter, counseling, and support for victims of domestic violence.
• Feeding the Gulf Coast – Tackles food insecurity with weekend and summer backpack programs for children who rely on school meals.
• The Basics Program – Delivers free, science-based text message tips to caregivers of children ages 0–5 to support early brain development.

These services—many of which are available to anyone regardless of income—create a safety net that families can rely on during tough times, including after divorce or custody challenges.

How to Get Involved

Justine encourages listeners to get involved in ways that go beyond writing a check:

• Volunteer Connect – United Way’s platform to match individuals with local volunteer opportunities based on their interests.
• Emerging Leaders Program – A network of young professionals committed to improving quality of life through community service and leadership.
• Corporate Involvement – Businesses can support United Way by encouraging employee involvement in giving campaigns, volunteer panels, and community initiatives.

A Vision for the Future

As United Way of Southwest Alabama approaches its 100th anniversary, Justine reflects on the honor of leading an organization so deeply embedded in the fabric of the community. With a focus on creating lasting change—not just temporary fixes—United Way is committed to helping families not only survive but thrive.

Learn More and Get Connected

If you’re inspired to learn more, volunteer, or support United Way’s mission, visit www.uwswa.org. You can also find United Way of Southwest Alabama on Facebook, Instagram, and even TikTok!

Listen to the full episode of the Herlihy Family Law Podcast for more insight from Justine Herlihy Bixler and learn how you can make a difference right here in Southwest Alabama.