U.T.B. - UNITED THIRD BRIDGE, INC.
PALM BAY, FLORIDA

U.T.B. United Third Bridge, Inc., based in Melbourne, Florida, has established itself as a pivotal organization dedicated to promoting educational opportunities and career advancement for minority groups. Founded on February 5, 1998, U.T.B. focuses on initiatives to enhance Equal Employment Opportunities by creating task forces in collaboration with Brevard County. These task forces strive to assess affirmative action plans concerning employment, construction contracting, and purchasing activities, thereby impacting the minority community positively. U.T.B. actively partners with local entities like the Sheriff's Department and cities such as Melbourne and Palm Bay to facilitate the recruitment of diverse candidates into law enforcement careers. In addition to these efforts, the organization has spearheaded workshops in collaboration with Florida Today's Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to address issues including tourist development, labor unions, and voter education. A notable accomplishment includes the initiation and completion of the Don Juan Ponce de León Landing Statue Project Phases I and II in Melbourne Beach, commemorating the 500-year anniversary of Florida's discovery. U.T.B.'s advocacy also led to a significant achievement with NASA, resulting in Puerto Rican astronaut Joseph M. Acaba joining the Shuttle Discovery mission, marking him as the first Puerto Rican in space. In 1990, U.T.B.'s founder, Douglas T. Peck, conducted an empirical research voyage based on historical maritime records to uncover insights about Juan Ponce de León's landing site in Florida. His reconstruction and navigation efforts led to evidence suggesting Melbourne Beach as the probable site of landing. U.T.B., under directors like Samuel D. Lopez and officers including Samantha J. Bickman, continues its mission with registered numbers such as F98000000674. The organization operates from its headquarters at 13000 Mustang Trail in Southwest Ranches, Florida.