United Way looking for executive director

Oct. 11—Untied Way of Southwestern Oregon is expanding its capacity to address the unique needs of people living on the southern Oregon coast.

When Jen Schafer started as the Executive Director of UWSWO it was a small agency with only one part-time paid staff position. Since her tenure, UWSWO has grown to six full-time employees and various contract positions. When reflecting on her time at United Way Jen said, "I am proud of what we have all accomplished over the last five years".

United Way of Southwestern Oregon was founded in 1961 to provide an organized way to address the unique needs of people living on the southern Oregon coast. United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in Coos and Curry counties. We focus in these three areas because, together, they are the foundation of success for every child, every individual, every family, every community, and every economy. We know that health, education, and financial stability are interconnected and, when strategically addressed, conspire to create communities where all people thrive.

UWSWO serves as the backbone agency for Every Child Coos and Curry, the South Coast Equity Coalition, Coos Hispanic Allies, Southern Oregon Coast Pride, the Waffle Project and was a founding partner of the new South Coast Relief Nursery.

As UWSWO continues to grow, Jen is moving into an Operations and Finance Director role and will continue to support the agency.

"I'm excited to continue to support UWSWO in a more focused role" stated Jen.

"The executive director role is vital to the success of our growth," said Board Chair Sara Stephens. "We adore Jen and are so proud of how we have been able to grow this agency into a impact organization".

As we look to the future, the United Way Board of Directors is seeking its next executive director. The executive director provides overall leadership for the agency alongside the board of directors to develop and implement the organization's strategic plan. They serve as the primary spokesperson and resource development agent for the organization; builds and maintains positive visibility and effective community partnerships in Coos and Curry Counties.

To learn more about the position go to www.unitedwayswo.org