United Way NEXT News + Insights
Stay updated on all things United Way NEXT with our blog posts and press releases! We're proud to share about the work we're doing behind the scenes and feature United Way professionals making connections and making a difference 💙
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As 2025 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible year we have shared as a community. With every connection, referral, mentoring match, coaching session, event, and interaction, we are so happy to be in service to you.
These last few weeks, our UW NEXT team and Relationship Managers have been wrapping up the outreach efforts for membership renewals so we can end the year strong. We recognize that none of what we do can be done alone and we are counting on the members who volunteer, give their time, and invest financially through their annual membership payments and additional contributions.
The True Impact of Your United Way NEXT Membership Renewal
Even Artificial Intelligence understands the value of the staff leaders of non-profit organizations: “They provide vision, strategic direction, and operational efficiency, while also fostering a positive organizational culture and building strong relationships with stakeholders.” What a perfect description of our association’s CEOs – starting as leaders of United Way Retirees Association (UWRA) and evolving to our present-day United Way NEXT.
As we look back on the individuals who have guided this association forward, it becomes clear how each brought unique strengths that helped shape the organization we know today. The following reflections highlight the staff leaders who carried UWRA and now United Way NEXT through key moments of growth, transition, and renewed purpose.
Historical Perspectives: UWRA/United Way NEXT Staff Leaders Stand on One Another’s Shoulders
Paul DeBassio Reflects on His Fun Year as united way NEXT’s Board Chair
Tempus Fugit. The Latin phrase published by Virgil in 29 BC is considered to be the basis of the phrase we all know "time flies when you're having fun.” Well, 2025, my year as Board Chair has certainly flown by. While there was much work and many obstacles to overcome, it has been "fun" and a joy, as well as an honor to serve our members during the 35th Anniversary celebration of United Way NEXT.
The important thing about anniversaries is to celebrate the past while envisioning an even brighter future. United Way NEXT, originally created as the United Way Retiree Association, was founded and sustained by some of the titans of the United Way movement. We are fortunate to have Dick Aft, a founder of UWRA, serve as Emeritus Board Member so we never lose sight of the history of the organization. However, like all UW NEXT Board members, Dick has his eye on the future.
6 ways to support united way next this giving tuesday
Giving Tuesday has always been a celebration of generosity. It’s a moment that reminds us how powerful it can be when people come together with intention, gratitude, and heart. And here at United Way NEXT, we’re continually inspired by the members, alumni, and friends who show up for this community in so many meaningful ways.
Whether you want to honor someone special, help welcome new members, or make a long lasting impact on the future of UW NEXT, there are so many ways to join in. Every single act of giving helps strengthen our community and fuel the programs, connections, and experiences that our members look forward to.
Get to know the Board: Ann Fox, United Way NEXT’s 2026 Board Chair
United Way NEXT is excited to introduce you to our 2026 Board Chair, Ann Fox!
Ann was born in Allentown, PA and later moved to the Reading area where she graduated from Wilson High School in West Lawn. She attended Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism and Public Relations. Before launching her career as a nonprofit professional, she served as HR Director at Donecker’s. Now, with over three decades of nonprofit leadership experience, the United Way alumni serves as Senior Advisor to the Chief Development Officer at PPFA.
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