May: A Message From our Executive Director

Dear Friends,

I have something important to share. After 23 years as United Way Oxford’s Executive Director, I have decided it is time to retire and embrace a new chapter. It was such a difficult decision to make, but after 40 years in the not-for-profit/charitable sector, with 35 years as an ED here in Oxford County, I feel it is time.

I have had the honour of serving as Executive Director of United Way Oxford since 2003. Each and every day has truly been a labour of love! I have been blessed to work with amazing staff, volunteers, partners, and donors throughout those years. The passion, knowledge, dedication and commitment of so many have been inspiring, and the impact of our combined efforts has been rewarding beyond measure. It has been a pleasure to guide our United Way through varying economic conditions, numerous community social challenges and even a global pandemic. I am proud of our team, our culture, and our commitment to always putting the needs of our community first while embracing change and new opportunities. During these past 2.5 decades, when national data shows citizens’ trust in charities is continually waning, and revenues are continually decreasing, our United Way has experienced the exact opposite. Today, more than ever before, we are seen as a valuable, authentic and respected partner that plays a vital role in the overall health of our community.

Thanks to the support of the Board, agency partners and the community, I have had an opportunity to impact and influence the social services available across Oxford in countless ways. From launching training and capacity building programs, to completely re-designing a 50+ year allocation process, to moving from a fundraising organization to one that is impact-driven based on community needs, to buying two transitional houses, I am so grateful for the opportunities that have been provided to me and the support that I have always received. While my heart is here in Oxford and fiercely focused on helping our local neighbours, I have also enjoyed participating in many UWCC Provincial and National initiatives and value those opportunities to contribute.

It has been my privilege to have been a part of the United Way Oxford family; thank you for being an important part of this family too. Meanwhile, I’ll be here until the end of September, and I hope to connect with many of you before my farewell. And please know, the Board has great plans in place to transition in the best possible way…I can’t wait to see what comes next!