Archives- Making Connections

MAKING CONNECTIONS ARCHIVES

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October, 2024 (Benton Clark, Juliet Clothier, Mike Durkin, Tiffani Mensch, Beth Terry)
July, 2024 (Patrick Jinks, Cynthia Round, Dr. Michele Vaughn, Barb Wentworth)
April, 2024 (Paula Gilberto, Holly Wade, Josh Kilgas, Jasmine Garcia)
January, 2024 (Bonnie Duncan, Rochelle Zeidman, Dona Ponepinto, Gary Johnson, Shemagne O'Keefe Mullin
November, 2023 (Dr. Patricia Clary, Charles Wright, Savannah Lyon)
September, 2023 (Kerri Strauss, Nina Buenavista, Bob Ferriday, Eve Powell, Sheridan Threadgill)

October, 2024

Benton Clark
Member Segment: United Way Retiree

My career with United Way began in 1974 when I was hired by United Way of Tarrant County in Fort Worth, Texas, as an internal auditor to help 20 partner agencies comply with newly issued accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations. The United Way committee that reviewed the internal audits was composed of managing partners of the then “Big Eight” accounting firms. Through this work assignment, United Way encouraged my career development in becoming a certified public accountant. In 1991, I assumed the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Over the years, my work allowed me to become knowledgeable in financial management, information technology, endowments, pension plans, and facilities management. I enjoyed serving on United Way Worldwide’s Financial Issues Committee in creating and issuing standards for the United Way community. I have many memories of working with colleagues across the United Way network during my 40 years at United Way. Thankfully, many of us are still in touch and that’s how United Way NEXT came into the picture for me. In 2023, Robert Ferriday, a long-time CFO colleague, asked me to serve on United Way NEXT’s Finance Work Group. United Way NEXT has opened up mentorship relations for me with other United Ways.

In addition to my involvement with United Way NEXT, I am currently serving on the boards of Christian Homes and Family Services of Abilene, Texas, and Park Row Christian Academy in Arlington, Texas. My wife and I are kept busy with our five grandchildren in sporting events and travels.

Juliet Clothier
Member Segment: United Way Alum

Reflecting on my career, I've consistently chosen to work with organizations deeply committed to their mission and to improving the lives of the communities they serve. My leadership style is grounded in strategic foresight, compassionate communication, and operational excellence.

My first CFO role was at United Way of the Bay Area, and it was pivotal. There I learned the nuances of leadership, philanthropy, service, and social justice. As a member of United Way Worldwide’s Financial Issues Committee, I helped shape organizational policies and build lasting connections with peers across the system. I cherish my time at United Way and remain grateful for the foundational experiences it provided.

Since then, I’ve applied my experience and community commitment to both nonprofit and for-profit sectors. As a consultant, I’ve guided organizations in professionalizing their strategies and systems for long-term success. As an executive coach, I’ve supported leaders through times of change, helping them identify and achieve their goals. In my roles as CFO and COO, I’ve been a trusted advisor to CEOs and leadership teams, ensuring their visions are both ambitious and sustainable.

I believe the CFO role goes beyond numbers; it requires balancing compassion with firmness, overseeing equity, and listening to the diverse, complex issues at the heart of our community’s needs. My passion for social justice drives my work, both within the organizations and in the communities they serve.

I am a co-host of a podcast called “Secrets of the C-Suite” and Carole Peters, UW NEXT’s CEO, was our first guest! Her leadership experience started early in her life; it was a fun conversation!

Outside of work, I enjoy music, paddleboarding, and spending time in the Redwoods of Northern California. I’m proud to serve on the United Way NEXT Finance Work Group, a role that has brought me full circle in my journey with the organization. I encourage any United Way alumni to join this passionate network--it’s great to be back.

Mike Durkin
Member Segment: United Way Retiree

My career started with information on United Way in a file (manila, not computer) at the college career office. I knew I wanted to help people and change the world. My choices were the Catholic Worker house in Boston or United Way. I had loans to pay, and United Way was paying. I was accepted into the United Way of America intern program with six-month stops in Manchester, New Hampshire, and Norfolk, Virginia (at that time I thought that Baltimore was a Southern city!).

I had some great experiences along the way with some great mentors—John Heins, Bob Cornelius, Mark O’Connell—and with a bunch of great colleagues. My last 27 years were as CEO of organizations in Denver and Boston. After six or seven moves (with great thanks to a patient wife and flexible kids) it was a sort of homecoming back to Boston. The United Way of Massachusetts Bay had merged with two other local United Ways, both of which I had worked for previously.

Retirement, since 2021, has included lots of reading (other than card value/projections and strategic plans), cooking, riding my bike, and herding grandkids. It has also included helping out United Way NEXT as a CEO Mentor and on the Resource Development/Member Recruitment Work Group.

It has all been good, and I am thankful for the opportunity to have found a career that matched my desire to help with an organization that was able to get things done. I still think that United Way is an incredible vehicle for change—bringing people who want to help together with people who need help. We all get caught up in the organizational flat tires, dented fenders, and rusty chassis that we spent our time fixing. What we did was steer a great vehicle for community change. What more could we ask for? Gotta go put gas in that Plymouth K-car now! Not really; the K-car died in Denver, but it does have the notoriety of having had Bill Aramony, Betty Beene, and Elaine Chau as passengers. Notoriety indeed.

Tiffani Mensch
Member Segment: Local United Way CEO
I’ve dedicated nearly 20 years to the nonprofit sector, working with organizations across Rhode Island, New Mexico, and Tennessee. My journey with United Way began as an employee of a funded agency (Girls Inc. of Santa Fe) in the late 2000s, and I later served as a Community Investment Grant volunteer for many years. My first staff role with United Way started in 2021 when the Alliance for Better Nonprofits, a nonprofit capacity-building center where I had spent seven years, merged with United Way of Greater Knoxville. During my time there, I was honored to lead a collaborative effort that secured a $25 million grant from the Tennessee Department of Human Services to support families’ economic mobility. I also served as Chief Philanthropy and Marketing Officer before transitioning to my current role.

Moving to Naples, FL in June 2023 to take on the role of President and CEO of United Way of Collier and the Keys was so much harder than I anticipated. Despite my extensive nonprofit capacity building and philanthropy background, the transition often felt overwhelming. The complexities of my new organization, which faced various challenges, combined with relocating from Knoxville—a city where I had lived for 12 years—made adjusting to a new community particularly stressful.

The support of the United Way network has been an absolute lifeline for me. Resources from United Way Worldwide, United Way of Florida (our outstanding state association), and United Way NEXT have provided essential assistance, without which I might have gone running back home to Knoxville! Having worked with many types of nonprofits—from museums and an orchestra to small after-school programs and a large university—I can confidently say that no other network matches the depth and breadth of United Way’s. We are incredibly fortunate to have access to such a vast and knowledgeable community of experts and resources.

Early on in my tenure as CEO, I connected with Carole Peters from United Way NEXT, which led to connections with an invaluable mentor and many expert consultants who helped me navigate my transition and my organization’s path forward. Both the empathy and guidance I received from Carole and other United Way NEXT members have been critical in getting me through this past year.

So, if you’re a new CEO and feeling overwhelmed, please feel free to reach out--I’m here to tell you that it does indeed get better! I also encourage you to fully engage with this supportive network—it has been essential to both my personal growth and our organization's success. From overwhelmed to empowered, I am proud to share how United Way NEXT helped me thrive as a new CEO.

Beth Terry
Member Segment: United Way Retiree

My United Way career began like many others I am certain. I was in my final year working on my MSW and had a semester placement with the Health, Welfare, & Recreation Planning Council of the Portsmouth (Virginia) Area. It shared offices with the United Way and I became hooked. In the early 1980s, it merged with the Portsmouth Area United Way which then merged with the United Way in Norfolk, VA. With subsequent mergers with Suffolk, Chesapeake, and Virginia Beach, all in fairly rapid succession, it became the United Way of South Hampton Roads. After this series of mergers, I was proud to lead planning for the United Way of South Hampton Roads. A marriage and husband’s transfer followed and voila! I was in New Orleans where I remain.

With what is now the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, I’ve been honored to work with outstanding local, regional, and national teams. We worked with United Way, as well as community and cross-sector focused teams. With this breadth and lots of amazing people, we drove three seismic shifts: firstly, we changed from process to results accountability that magnified our collective power to do good nationally. Secondly, we focused on disaster work with Hurricane Katrina—relief, recovery, resiliency-- and tweaked systems that expanded our collective power to do good regionally. And lastly, we seized the opportunity to take on UWSELA’s Transformation work locally--a 3-year journey of learning, exploration, change, and a privilege.

As I look back, the theme of systems change has been fairly consistent, and it has continued. With retirement I branched out, serving on the boards of my church and condominium association and, while on both, driving the documentary support for needed organizational change. With UW NEXT, the Engage & Exchange Work Group has drawn me to new support experiences for current UW staff, alumni, and retirees. Meanwhile, I’m expanding and polishing my French, volunteering with L’Union Française, delving into historic preservation and local history, singing at church, listening to marvelous music, attending festivals, and traveling. My photo included in this article was taken at the French Quarter Fest in April in front of the Old U.S. Mint and Jazz Museum

July, 2024

Patrick Jinks
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Like many others, I began my United Way career as a volunteer (loaned executive) in Shreveport, LA. Twenty years later, after two CEO roles, two interim CEO roles, a state board, two terms on the National Professional Council, and a VP role in Columbia, SC, I launched my leadership coaching business full time in 2016. I cannot adequately express how much I learned from United Way, and I am blessed to be able to continue serving the network as a coach and trainer.

Today, I coach senior leaders, teams, and even boards through my company, The Leader's Perspective. I am a board-certified coach through the Center for Credentialing and Education (CCE) with a growing team of adjuncts and an advisory board who all help me deliver value for nonprofits. Recently, I launched a CCE-accredited training program to help certify other coaches, and I am building an in-person corporate version that will be delivered by independent consultants around the world, soon!

When I am not coaching, there’s a good chance I am riding one of my motorcycles or scoping out cemeteries for ancestry research. I have a collection of Taylor guitars I love to play, and I am absolutely nuts over my five-year-old grandson Jude. We like to watch St. Louis Cardinals baseball together!

I am also an award-winning professional photographer. Though I laid it down for a while, I am now trying to pick it back up to photograph headshots and storyboards for nonprofits on the side. I am excited to get more engaged with UW NEXT. I love that it gives me an opportunity to stay connected and give something back to the network.

Cynthia Round
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
My decades-long relationship with United Way is a bit like the Eagles’ Hotel California: “you can check out anytime you like, but you can never leave.” My introduction to United Way was the workplace campaign in my job as a brand manager at P&G, where I became a loyal annual contributor. A decade later at Ogilvy Worldwide advertising agency, I led the team volunteering to create advertising for United Way of Tri-State in NYC and later for United Way of America. That is when I really got hooked and decided to move full-time into marketing for the social change sector. United Way in Alexandria became one of my first clients until eventually I signed on as EVP Brand Leadership at UWW. One of the greatest privileges of my career was to help align 40 countries and 1,700 local United Ways around a single-brand identity and strategy, creating and launching LIVE UNITED as a global movement in community impact.

I have such fond memories of working with colleagues across the network for my 12 years at UWW… and thankfully, many of us are still in touch from around the globe. That’s how United Way NEXT came into the picture for me, when Barbara Edmond, Ann Fox and others convened a group of United Way alumni in various stages of “post United Way life” to help broaden the mission and offerings of the United Way Retirees Association beyond retirees. I am now actively recruiting former staff and colleagues to join so we can create the kind of added-value, world-class alumni network that I enjoy as an ongoing part of my former corporate experience. Today I continue to work as an independent brand strategist and advisor to nonprofits including local United Ways and other organizations often led by United Way alumni. “You can check out any time you like, but you can never leave!”

Dr. Michele Vaughn
Member Segment: United Way Current Staff
A little over a year ago I began my role as Chief Executive Officer with Kishwaukee United Way in DeKalb, Illinois. I knew almost immediately that I would need a support network to better understand how to lead most efficiently in my new assignment. I then received a referral from a board member to connect with Carole Peters from United Way NEXT to provide more hands-on mentoring as I navigated my new role and to intentionally gain clarity about the United Way network from a local perspective. I recall our first Zoom call; Carole was all smiles, energetic, and informative--providing me the hope I needed in a moment when I felt the pressure of leading in a new territory for a well-known organization.

Prior to accepting this new leadership position, I served eight years as the Chief Executive Officer & Founder of a grassroots nonprofit organization called the Teen & Single Mother Resource Center, Inc. located in Waukegan, Illinois. The primary mission aimed to equip, empower, and educate single mothers to become positive role models to their children through the power of advanced education and homeownership. Before the nonprofit's launch, I worked eight years in higher education at a two-year community college as the associate dean for community education. I worked tirelessly to ensure education was accessible to a population that was considered, “the least likely to succeed, but the most in need.” I did this by partnering with various Lake County community agencies to offer GED, ESL & Career Development mobile learning classrooms for adult learners. 

By joining United Way NEXT, I am now connected to a network of UW professionals all over the world with access to online resources that are most helpful to a new UW CEO, such as myself. I am a strong believer in intentional leadership and United Way NEXT has afforded me an opportunity to be a part of an online community of like-minded individuals who, too, desire to lead with a servant’s heart by expanding the mission of United Way in their own local communities. Over the past year, my United Way NEXT membership has helped me to take Kishwaukee United Way to a higher level with the supportive services offered through their online professional development network. So many executive leaders need help as they accept the role to become servant leaders in their local areas. I am one of those leaders and am grateful for United Way NEXT.

Barb Wentworth
Member Segment: United Way Retiree

While working at a child mental health facility, I was asked to create a volunteer program that would support the children and youth in care. Having volunteered in college and beyond, it was a great opportunity to put my belief in the healing power of volunteering into action for young people who needed additional positive role models in their world. The program thrived, and along with other volunteer administrators in the area, we were inspired to create a volunteer center for our county. The leader of the local United Way was interested and found a grant to support the fledgling operation. I was hired to create the center.

This began a 30-year journey with my local United Way. Over the years, I helped shape a new business model for the organization that led to successful community impact and dove deep into establishing metrics and measuring outcomes. I learned the fine art of relationship building and resource development. I also maintained my first love of inviting volunteer engagement with our organization and for our many community partners. Ultimately, I became the President and CEO of my organization due to the great education and growth opportunities I experienced as part of the United Way network and the people that are a part of it.

Over the years, I also benefitted from many mentors- individuals who saw in me qualities and skills that I might not yet have realized were there. From creating that first volunteer program to being asked to establish new programs, coalitions and collaborations to benefit our local community, mentors were key. Now as a member of United Way NEXT, I have the opportunity to mentor current United Way professionals, help shape educational offerings, and continue my personal and professional journey as a part of the broader United Way network.

April, 2024

Paula Gilberto
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
I've been fortunate that my 44-year career in the nonprofit sector aligned with my values of community service. I started that career with the American Red Cross and, through it, was introduced to our local United Way. I became a donor, I led Red Cross' United Way Campaign, served as an agency speaker and then as a loaned executive. Thanks to Susan Dunn, the late George Bahamonde hired me, and I joined the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut's team for a 24-year career, the last six as President and CEO.
During my United Way career, I had the opportunity to participate on various projects and initiatives with stellar professionals from local United Ways and United Way Worldwide. All were great colleagues, and many became good friends and sage mentors. While retirement concluded my paid working career, United Way NEXT has afforded me an opportunity to reconnect with these friends and mentors and continue to meaningfully engage with a network and movement I hold dear.
*Pictured left to right: Gail Millerick, former UW staff and now UW consultant, Paula Gilberto, Ned Dunn and Susan Dunn, former President & CEO UW of Central & Northeastern Connecticut.

Holly Wade
Member Segment: Current United Way Staff
I “stumbled” onto UW NEXT when I reached out to a United Way colleague to find out about some of their community impact grant funding processes. As a new Director, I’d been assessing the things that my organization was doing and wondering about some best practices. That Director I’d connected with was a member of UW NEXT and introduced me to Carole Peters, UW NEXT CEO. After our initial discussion, Carole and I created a few action steps, one of those being a mentorship. My mentorship experience with Kyle Rahn, UW NEXT volunteer mentor, has been so beneficial that I decided to join UW NEXT and will continue with that mentorship. It’s so much more than having someone to guide me through United Way best practices and to help my organization move forward steadily. It’s that I’m building a relationship where I can lean on former leaders of the organization who remind me to take care of myself, who give me a place to put my emotions on the table before having difficult discussions with Board Members or Partner Agencies, and who share forward thinking ideas that can work in my community. I look forward to my mentorship meetings. I feel like I’m growing more professionally through this experience than through anything else I’ve done to date.

Josh Kilgas
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Throughout my decade-long tenure at United Way Fox Cities, I had the honor of witnessing the remarkable influence of United Way NEXT. This vibrant network afforded me valuable resources, notably in the development of a major gifts program. A key aspect of my experience with United Way NEXT was the opportunity to be paired with a seasoned mentor specializing in major gifts. This mentorship not only expedited the establishment of a successful major gifts program but also furthered my personal and professional advancement.

As I transition into an alumni role within the United Way network, I remain enthusiastic about staying connected through United Way NEXT. The network grants me continued access to a diverse array of individuals and resources, which I anticipate will continue to play a pivotal role in my endeavors. Moreover, I am eager to leverage my skills and enthusiasm to contribute to the ongoing success of United Way. Recognizing the profound impact United Way has on our local communities and beyond, I am committed to utilizing my talents to further its mission.

Reflecting on my involvement, I confidently recommend United Way NEXT to those looking for avenues for professional development and meaningful engagement. The network's robust support system and diverse opportunities for growth render it an invaluable resource. My journey with United Way NEXT has undeniably left a lasting impression, and I am sincerely grateful for the chance to be a part of such an impactful community.

Jasmine Garcia
Member Segment: United Way Alumni

My United Way journey started in 2010 with the United Way of Bowling Green, Ohio, while I was obtaining my Master's in Public Administration. We partnered together to perform a needs assessment of the community related to their access to dental care services. It was such a phenomenal experience to work with Sue Canton and get to know the community. The experience gave me an amazing introduction to the integral work that local United Ways do across the globe. A few years later, my path landed at United Way Worldwide (UWW) where I merged my passion for people, process, and culture. I had the honor of supporting the global network, particularly the international team and local United Ways for the past seven years on all things “membership and operations.” I joined UW Next while in the midst of a career transition. I'm so grateful to Carole for bringing me into the mix!
To share a bit about myself, I was raised on the island of Kauai, which instilled in me the value of the environment, community, and relationships. My path led me to the Peace Corps Panama, where I lived in a small indigenous village of indigenous farmworkers living on less than a dollar a day where I was quickly humbled by their knowledge, community, and happiness. Since then, I’ve dedicated my life to the philanthropic community supporting global membership networks and leveraging my operational and relational skills to drive impact around the world.

When I am not working, I spend as much time as I can with my family & friends, travelling, getting outside (hiking, paddleboarding), and exercising.  My children are my world. I love watching them explore the world and gain new skills.

January, 2024

Member Name: Bonnie Duncan
Member Segment: United Way Retiree
Member Quote: After 25 years at United Way of Hunterdon County I was looking forward to retirement last year. Some folks may have a detailed plan of what that next step in their life journey would be – I was not one of those folks. I knew I needed to take some time to decompress. I wanted to spend some time on self-care while spending more time with friends and family While that was the initial plan, it wasn’t long before I knew I wasn’t done and that I needed a plan to see how I could still put some of my skills to work in a different way.

Our United Way was a lifelong supporter of the United Way Retirees Association, and I was intrigued by the rebranding and launch of United Way NEXT Switching to an individual membership was easy and there were so many opportunities to get involved and still stay connected to the United Way system. Over the past year I have been able to pick and choose the work I want to be engaged in. I’ve attended webinars and networking meetings. I joined the Engage and Exchange Work Group to see how we can partner, collaborate, and coordinate with UWW and others. The collective knowledge of skills amongst my colleagues is inspiring. Through UW NEXT, I got certified as an Interim Executive Director with the Third Sector Company and attended their first annual conference.
Joining UW NEXT was the best thing for me. I’m not ready to hang up on all my past work. This allows me to stay connected and stay active, but at my own pace. Lifelong learning only makes us better and there is so much still left to do. I encourage everyone to check out UW NEXT and see where you fit in – I guarantee there is a place for you.

Member Name: Rochelle Zeidman
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Member Quote: UW NEXT provides a unique value proposition - connecting committed current and former talented leaders for strategy and advice to serve local United Way communities through learning opportunities and mentorships. I value and am inspired by their knowledge and passion to create a more equitable world where all people thrive, and every community is a resilient one, with family-sustaining jobs, good schools and a healthy environment for all. My United Way journey included serving as Director of U.S. and International Giving at UWW, collaborating with local United Ways. Through that experience, I was humbled to see the commitment of the Tocqueville Society, Women’s Leadership members, and the incredible people who believe in the UW mission in communities across the U.S. and around the world. As a member of UW NEXT, I have been continuously impressed by this dedicated army of talent and compassion leveraging their abilities to solve tough problems and have lasting impact. 

Dona Ponepinto
Member Segment: Local United Way
My United Way journey started in August 1987. What was originally meant to be something to do until I figured out what I really wanted to do, became my vocation. Four United Way communities and 36 years later, I can't think of anything else I would rather do than to be a part of making change in my community. Over the course of my time with United Way, I’ve often been asked the question - what makes you want to stay? My response is always the same - first, I stay because I am committed to doing everything I can along with my team and community to ensure that everyone has access to opportunities to thrive. Second, the magic of United Way is our ability to bring together all sectors to tackle the issues that we all care about. Lastly, I believe in the power of our collective humanity.

The beauty of being a part of this movement for so long is that I have had an opportunity to know so many great United Way professionals that have provided me support and mentorship over the years. It’s wonderful to stay connected with many of them by becoming a part of United Way NEXT. Our Local United Way joined 10 years ago and as a new CEO, I was pleased to know that I would be able to have access to a wide range of resources as I navigated my new role. I continue to find value in the support that United Way NEXT can provide, and I always encourage other United Ways to use it as a resource.

Gary Johnson
Member Segment: United Way Retiree
I am a graduate of UCONN 1974 and Quinnipiac Law School 1981. I was a practicing Attorney in the 1980’s. I started my United Way career on March 18, 1978. There was an advertised position for a Campaign Associate in our local paper, a position funded by the Federal Government under the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA). Funding ended in September, 1978 and the Board of United Way of Milford voted to fund the position. I have been there ever since, at least until June 30, 2022 when I retired after 44 years. It is highly unusual for a person to stay in one community for that long. I took over as Executive Director in January, 1986 when my predecessor retired. I never had any desire to move. Milford is a wonderful coastal community in Connecticut. I really enjoyed my United Way career and am proud to be a member of NEXT where I am able to renew old acquaintances and hopefully have a continuing impact on the United Way movement in years to come.

Shemagne O’Keefe Mullin
Member Segment: Current United Way Staff

I have been of service in the greater Milwaukee nonprofit world for over 30 years. I have had the privilege to work with a number of our largest institutions including a stint at United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County about 20 years ago. For the last four UW campaigns I like to say I came back “home” to United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County as a seasonal Campaign Coordinator. I fell in love all over again with the mission, connecting with fabulous Ambassadors and corporate partners and of course, the outstanding volunteers and extraordinary Team. Like many organizations, our United Way has had many Planned Giving starts and stops. This past spring the first full time Planned Giving role was created, and I was thrilled to be hired. I did not have any Planned Giving experience and was now charged with building a new program focused on connecting with people in a personal way to create opportunities for ensuring an organization they have trusted for over 100 years and the community they love is sustained for another 100 years and always!

Top priority was training, and my first call was to the wonderful Evelyn Morgner at UWW. She connected me to a wealth of information and training opportunities at United Way Worldwide. Her first referral was to Carole Peters at United Way NEXT. Carole and I hit it off so quickly and she became a wonderful resource and excellent support! She also connected me to her esteemed volunteer faculty including Bob Ferriday former CFO at United Way Greater Milwaukee when I was here 20 years ago! What a delight to reconnect with Bob! Bob and another faculty member with Milwaukee connections Monica Estabrooke have become trusted mentors. So grateful for their support! Carole and United Way NEXT were an incredible resource as we began our Planned Giving journey. In partnership with United Way NEXT, we have embarked on a Planned Giving Study/Readiness Assessment led by esteemed faculty Janet Clarkson Davis and Ed John. Together, we will capture valuable donor and key constituent input and feedback to shape an effective and sustainable planned giving program and overall case for giving. United Way NEXT expertise and support is integral and invaluable as we launch our program and integrate planned giving into all of work. It is an honor to be part of a team paving the way for other United Ways to build planned giving programs that last. Thank you Carole, Janet, Ed, Bob, Monica and everyone involved in United Way NEXT! Your wisdom, passion and experience are deeply appreciated!

November, 2023

Name: Dr. Patricia A. Clary
Member Segment: United Way Retiree
Member Quote: I became aware of United Way NEXT shortly after completing my Ph.D. in organizational leadership in 2022. Even though I had retired, my passion for positively impacting society remained unwavering. I was determined to reconnect with organizations capable of driving meaningful change in our ever-evolving global landscape characterized by formidable challenges. I recognized that United Way and United Way NEXT were integral components of this solution. Having served as the President & CEO of a United Way in California, I have long held a profound appreciation for the valuable work conducted by United Way and the dedicated individuals whose passion aligns with the organization’s mission.

United Way NEXT allows me to remain actively engaged and effect positive change through my involvement with the organization. I have discovered that UW NEXT fully lives up to its mission statement, serving as a platform for leaders to connect, listen, lead, and inspire. My journey with UW NEXT led me to discover and complete the Interim Executives Academy offered by Third Sector Company. Additionally, I had the opportunity to participate in a networking event in Louisville, KY, where I rekindled relationships with former United Way peers and forged meaningful connections with new friends and colleagues. Moreover, the potential to come alongside United Way CEOs offering mentoring best practices based on life experiences in United Way’s ecosystem inspires me. Carole Peters, President & CEO of UW NEXT, and her dedicated team care about what’s NEXT and how United Way NEXT can support the United Way local and global community. I am honored to be a part of UW NEXT and their work to effect positive change.

Name: Charles Wright
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Member Quote: I have always been driven by wanting to be a member of a larger effort driving social impact. While in graduate school, I interned at United Way, leading to a full-time opportunity. The timing was great as United Way was moving to outcome measurement and community impact. While I enjoyed being a local staff leader, I found a passion to be involved with UWW on several network initiatives. Working on teams focused on tackling issues that could impact the whole network. With an evaluation background, I was given a chance to step up and play a leadership level both locally and in helping United Ways around the country. What I miss the most is going to national and regional conferences and sharing excitement and knowledge with hundreds of people from around the country. Happy hours were where the real innovative ideas were drawn out on a napkin – true story! Since departing my local United Way after a glorious 23-year career, I have been working as a consultant with a number of local foundations and nonprofits, as well as being a lead instructor for classes in the School of Social Work at the University of Cincinnati. Upon leaving my local United Way, I saw the United Way Retiree Association reimagining itself and selecting the right leader to evolve this important organization. Immediately, I felt plugged in and began to connect with people. “Priceless,” is the word I would use to describe all the mentoring and lessons learned as I grew my career. I felt like being part of UW NEXT, I would continue to be around individuals where I could learn valuable lessons. My experience with UW NEXT has been very fulfilling. I have used the webinars for continuing education and enjoy the fact that I am still learning new things. Please reach out if we did work together and aren’t connected.

Member Name: Savannah Lyon, CEO of the UW of Kearney Area - Nebraska
Member Segment: Local United Way
Member Quote: I sobbed in the middle of a state director meeting. Having not slept well for months, I felt very much alone in my role as a new United Way Executive Director. I desperately wanted support and a place where I could be transparent. I needed expertise from people who had walked a similar path ahead of me. As the meeting closed, one of the leaders forwarded me Carole Peters’ email. “They can help get you a coach,” she promised. Finally, a glimmer of hope. I wasn’t even out of the parking lot from the meeting before I tapped out an email to Carole. She replied within 90 minutes. The following day, Carole zoomed with me for two hours. She encouraged me and provided me with tools, resources and ideas. Later, she connected me with Kyle Rahn, a UW NEXT Member and Mentor.

Kyle Rahn is a former United Way Executive who is passionate about building up leaders, especially female leaders. She meets with me frequently. Since our relationship started, I have finally slept. I have clarity in my vision and a reliable resource when I’m unsure or my board is doubtful. Most of all, I have a cheerleader who encourages and supports me. Having Kyle as a mentor has been a game changer and a lifeline. I believe this is something that every new executive director needs to be successful

September, 2023

UW NEXT Member: Kerri Strauss
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Member Quote: I am a proud member of UW Next! I have always been drawn to community impact work, starting at a young age as a Girl Scout brownie. I enjoy making a difference where I live. Joining service clubs in high school and college, volunteering at various nonprofits, I found United Way at a young age. While working on my Master of Social Work degree, I requested an internship placement in my local UW’s Community Impact Division. This led to a decade of UW employment.

The main value I find through UW Next is the members. People make all the difference. It’s the personal
relationships we develop in life that matter most - our family, friends, colleagues, retirees, volunteers, at
all stages of life. I’ve found professional connections, colleagues who have enhanced my career, and
even colleagues who have become friends. Having a strong network to rely on – personally and
professionally – has greatly enhanced this next stage of my life.

As a UW NEXT member, I am serving as a mentor for a new Executive Director of a UW in Louisiana. I
also serve on the Engage and Exchange Work Group of UW Next, and the newly formed Podcast sub-
committee, along with attending monthly member meet ups. UW Next has provided me with ways to
contribute meaningfully to the broader UW Network. I enjoy staying connected to such an instrumental
piece of community impact. I find deep meaning in the volunteer work I do with UW Next and hope this
message inspires you to get involved.

UW NEXT Member: Nina Buenavista
Member Segment: United Way Current Staff
Member Quote: I have been with United Way Miami for four months, and as you can imagine, there is
plenty to learn about the organization and planned giving. Although I had almost 20 years of experience conversing with clients about estate planning and their legacy as a former banker, my expertise was in managing their investments rather than planned giving - I am aware of the limitations it entails. Therefore, I jumped at the opportunity of connecting with United Way Next when Evelyn Morgner presented the opportunity. I wanted to connect with individuals who could guide my United Way journey. I also wanted a planned giving mentor to tap into their expertise, learn from their experiences, and for my overall personal growth. Carole Peters connected me with Roma Bose, UW NEXT member and volunteer faculty, based on what I told her about what I was looking for in a mentor. Roma and I connected on our first Zoom shortly after. I loved that she gave me immediate feedback on my strategy and some additional insights I had yet to consider. I look forward to her challenging my limits and broadening my perspective. Planned giving is a beautiful opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the organization and the donor. For United Way Miami, it contributes to its long-term sustainability, ensuring impact in our community. For the donor, I get to be a part of their philanthropic journey, helping them fulfill their goals and secure their legacy. United Way Next is helping me expand my network and knowledge – I look forward to meeting more amazing people!

UW NEXT Member: Bob Ferriday
Member Segment: United Way Retiree
Member Quote: When I reflect on my relationship with UW NEXT, for me, it was a natural thing to do
to join the Retiree Association of the organization I had worked for the last 25 years. Then, my wife and I began traveling to various locations around the U.S. to attend the UWRA Gatherings. One thing led to another, and I was asked to join the board. Being a retired United Way Chief Financial Officer, it was natural that I was asked to serve as Treasurer. I have found this role to be stimulating and enjoyable. One recent example is when Benton Clark, retired CFO from Fort Worth, agreed to join our Finance Committee and it was rekindling a relationship that began several decades ago from our Finance Roundtables. In addition to serving on the UW NEXT Finance committee, I have had the opportunity to be part of the UW NEXT Endowment and Planned Giving volunteer faculty providing support to the field. That has been stimulating too! Recently, a past co-worker and recent re-hire at our United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County in WI, Shemagne O’Keefe Mullins, and I have reconnected around her new role as Engagement Manager, Planned Giving. What a small world indeed. In short, I have found that volunteering seems to always give back more than you expected and UW NEXT is a great place to have that happen.

UW NEXT Member: Eve Powell
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Member Quote: After receiving recommendations from Evelyn Morgner and Keith Barsuhn, I joined
United Way NEXT. I am excited to offer my expertise in service of helping LUWs thrive. United Way plays a critical role in our communities, and I am happy to be part of the UW NEXT Volunteer Faculty that is helping LUWs remain vibrant, relevant, successful, and high-functioning organizations. Fortuitously, Wes Wicker was on one of the early Zoom calls I joined and that led to a consulting position at his firm, Columns Fundraising. So I am working both as a consultant and volunteer!

UW NEXT Member: Sheridan Threadgill
Member Segment: United Way Alumni
Member Quote: I worked as the Community Engagement Coordinator for Kishwaukee United Way in
DeKalb, Illinois for almost three years and during that time I grew to appreciate all of the work that the
United Way does behind the scenes and on the ground for communities across the world. Upon leaving
the United Way to focus on my family and completing my Master’s in Public Administration, I received a
personal invitation to join UW NEXT from CEO, Carole Peters. I knew right away that this was something
I wanted to be a part of. I have always appreciated the UWs promotion of networking and professional
development. Joining UW NEXT is a great opportunity to still be connected to UW, the people and
programs offered. I look forward to engaging with this Community of UW Leaders!

If you would like to share a member update, please email Carole Peters at [email protected]