UWNWMI Welcomes United Way of Wexford-Missaukee Counties

United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI) is pleased to announce the successful merger of United Way of Wexford-Missaukee  Counties (UWWM) within their organization. The merger is effective July 1, 2023 and comes as a result of a thorough evaluation and mutual agreement between UWNWMI and UWWM, recognizing the potential for increased efficiency, effectiveness and impact in serving the communities of Northwest Michigan.

By combining efforts, UWNWMI will be better equipped to address the ongoing needs of our communities effectively. The consolidation of administrative functions will result in increased efficiency, allowing more time, energy, and resources to be directed to improving lives and creating lasting change across the region.

Funds raised in Wexford and Missaukee counties will continue to stay within those communities to address local needs and priorities. This localized approach will enable UWNWMI to maintain a targeted focus on the unique challenges faced by each county while leveraging combined resources to amplify their impact.

A local UWNWMI office will be maintained in the Wexford-Missaukee region and Andy Ulrich, former Executive Director of UWWM, will continue on as Director of Regional Community Impact of the Wexford-Missaukee Region, under the leadership of Seth Johnson, CEO/President of UWNWMI. Ulrich will continue to help shape strategic direction to meet the evolving needs of the communities of Wexford and Missaukee counties.

In addition, Brian Kelsey, former Board President at UWWM, will join the Board of UWNWMI. “Together, we can accomplish more, reach farther, and make a lasting difference in the communities we serve. This merger represents a new chapter of innovation and shared vision, and I am pleased to be a part of this journey,” shared Kelsey.

The UWNWMI Board will be reflective of all the counties it serves, including Wexford and Missaukee. This diverse representation will ensure that the merged organization understands the distinct needs and aspirations of each community, fostering equitable and inclusive decision-making processes.

“We are thrilled to welcome United Way of Wexford-Missaukee Counties,” said Deon Vaughan, Board President of UWNWMI. “By pooling and leveraging the resources and expertise of both organizations, and empowering local decision-making, we are confident that we’ll be even more effective in addressing the pressing needs of our communities.”

By building on shared values, resources, and expertise to drive meaningful change, UWNWMI is creating a brighter and more prosperous future for all residents. They look forward to collaborating with community partners, donors, volunteers, and stakeholders to achieve a thriving, resilient, and united Northwest Michigan.

 

 

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United Way of Northwest Michigan (UWNWMI) is a Charity Navigator four-star rated nonprofit organization that works with communities in Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau and now Wexford and Missaukee counties to pool efforts in fundraising and support. UWNWMI’s focus is to identify and resolve community issues and to make measurable changes in communities through partnerships with schools, government agencies, businesses, organized labor, financial institutions, community development corporations, voluntary and neighborhood associations, the faith community, and others. The main areas of focus are education, health, and basic needs. Please contact UWNWMI at 231.947.3200 or visit us at www.uwnwmi.org.