The day before the first anniversary of financial problems being reported at United Way of the Brazos Valley (UWBV), was the annual meeting of the non-profit agency.
Thursday’s gathering was the first appearance of the UWBV’s new chief executive. Andy Martin, who led the United Way for five years in Salina Kansas, has been on the job here 24 days.
The board went through two searches before making the hire. Martin says he was very clear that the board will set policy but won’t be micro-managers.
Martin says he doesn’t proceed until the board approves policy.
And a new slogan has been incorporated by staff and board members, “It’s a new day at United Way.”
WTAW’s Bill Oliver visits with Andy Martin.
UWBV serves 25 non-profits in a seven county service area. Board chairman Will Brown says they and the agencies will be more accountable.
Brown says some of the shortfall can be made up by contributions to a $100,000 dollar challenge grant from the Bryan family. Brown says they are at the halfway mark.
UWBV holds two campaign drives. Brown says state employees gave $625,000 dollars, 15 percent more than expected. The community campaign, which ends March 31, is closing in on their goal of $700,000 dollars.
WTAW’s Bill Oliver visits with Will Brown.