United Way NEXT Celebrates 35 Years of Community, Connection, and Growth
United Way NEXT, formerly known as the United Way Retirees Association, is proud to celebrate 35 years of connecting, engaging, and inspiring United Way leaders beyond their tenure. Since its founding in 1990, UW NEXT has served as a vital network for both current and former United Way professionals, providing opportunities for continued involvement, mentorship, and professional development within the United Way community.
To commemorate this significant milestone, UW NEXT will host a series of celebratory events throughout the year, highlighting its rich history and bright future. Among the featured festivities:
April Board Retreat Reception – A special gathering at our April board retreat to honor the achievements of the past 35 years and celebrate the vision for the future.
Historical Perspective Articles – Special edition articles written by esteemed United Way Historian & Emeritus board member Dick Aft and Teresa Bartels, reflecting on the evolution and impact of UW NEXT.
35th Anniversary Endowment Campaign – The launch of a milestone fundraising effort to ensure the long-term sustainability of UW NEXT’s mission.
Special Social Hours – A series of social gatherings throughout the year, bringing together UW NEXT members to celebrate, reconnect, and share their experiences.
“This anniversary is a testament to the enduring spirit of the United Way network and the leaders who have dedicated their careers to advancing the common good,” said Carole Peters, President & CEO of UW NEXT. “We are excited to celebrate this legacy while also looking ahead to new opportunities for engagement and impact.”
Keith Barsuhn, UW NEXT Board Member, emphasized the importance of giving back during this milestone year: “I am proud to contribute to the 35th Anniversary Endowment Campaign because I believe in the lasting impact of United Way NEXT. This campaign ensures that future generations of United Way professionals can benefit from the same sense of connection and support that we’ve experienced.”
Dick Aft and Teresa Bartels, who write the Historical Perspective articles, shared their excitement about documenting UW NEXT’s journey. “United Way NEXT has played an essential role in keeping past and present United Way leaders connected,” said Dick. “Through these articles, we hope to capture the rich history and the incredible contributions of those who have shaped this organization over the past 35 years.”
Teresa added, "While I'm new to recording our history, I’ve been passionate about United Way for more than 45 years. With Dick’s extraordinary knowledge of our history, I’m delighted to pick up on what’s happening in communities now. United Way NEXT is a vibrant network partner today, built on the relationships forged over these past 35 years.”
For more details on our 35th Anniversary Celebration and ways to get involved, please visit our website.
For media inquiries, please contact: Ivy Cirillo, UW NEXT Marketing, Communications, & Events Manager at ivy.cirillo@uww.unitedway.org
About United Way NEXT
Founded in 1990, United Way NEXT (formerly United Way Retirees Association) is a diverse and inclusive community of passionate United Way professionals and alumni who share a profound sense of purpose and belonging. The membership organization helps make connections and make a difference through engaging events, mentorship programs, and valuable resources. With an annual budget of less than $250,000, UW NEXT supports a growing community of more than 42,000 applicable individuals.