United Way makes changes in leadership

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Linda Roles, executive director of United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties, announced the promotion of Jessica Boyer to executive director.

Roles, who has held the position of executive director for the past 14 years, will move to the position of director of fundraising and planned giving.

With the ever-growing demand for assistance in Douglas and Pope counties, concentrating on fundraising has become extremely important, Roles said.

“Without a monetary commitment from the entire community, local needs cannot be met and local agencies cannot provide the services required,” said Roles. “As United Way has continued to grow, it has been challenging to concentrate on raising funds. I am now looking forward to focusing my efforts on the fundraising aspect of the organization and am very pleased the board has supported my recommendation for this change.”

Under 14 years of Role’s leadership, United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties has increased its fundraising from $179,000 to more than $668,000 this fiscal year.

With outcome measurements in place, the agency has shifted from funding agencies to funding programs. Among those successful programs are Dolly Parton Imagination Library, food drops, and “Plant an Extra Row” to help the hungry.

Boyer was hired three years ago as the community impact director in conjunction with United Way’s direction to “advance the common good” by focusing on “education, income (financial stability) and health” within the communities it serves.

Boyer, said Roles, has done a tremendous job for the past three years and is excited about her new appointment and the challenges it holds.

Roles looks forward to continuing her work with Boyer as they transition into their new positions beginning July 1.

United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties impacts lives locally by mobilizing resources to create sustained changes. It provides resources to support programs for improved education, health and income.

For more information or to get involved with United Way of Douglas and Pope Counties, visit www.uwdp.org or call (320) 763-4840.

Tags: local news, united way, linda roles, jessica boyer, news