March 25, 2011 - United Way of Windham County has hired a Director of Community Investments to oversee the investment process as it prepares to undergo a significant shift in the way it funds local organizations, announced Executive Director Carmen Derby on Monday. Sue Graff of Brattleboro has accepted the newly formed position and will begin working with the organization in April.

This new United Way staff position is fully grant funded through support from the A.D. Henderson Foundation and the Thomas Thompson Trust. As Director of Community Investments, Graff will provide oversight and leadership for United Way of Windham County Community Impact Programs. With United Way volunteers currently establishing target outcomes for the community in the areas of health, education, and income, it will be Graff’s job to work with area organizations to ensure these outcomes are achieved.

“Community Impact promises to make real change in our community, but it will require United Way to collaborate more closely with area organizations than ever before. In hiring the Director of Community Investments, we knew we needed a person with incredible knowledge of Windham County’s nonprofits, tremendous energy, and the ability to bring about real change. After interviewing Sue, we knew she was the right person for this job,” said United Way of Windham County Executive Director, Carmen Derby. “We are very grateful to our funding partners – the A.D. Henderson Foundation and Thomas Thompson Trust – whose support will help us make real change in the way we work in the community,” continued Derby.

Prior to accepting the Director of Community Investments role, Graff was a Program Coordinator with Brattleboro Area Prevention Coalition (BAPC) for the past four years. In addition to her experience with BAPC, she has worked with Sojourns Community Health Clinic in Westminster, Vermont and New York Cares, Mothers’ Voices, and Gay Men's Health Crisis in New York City.

“I'm thrilled to be joining the United Way of Windham County in the new role of Director of Community Investments. I look forward to working with organizations and individuals county-wide, as well as United Way's excellent volunteers and staff, in order to maximize the positive impact of our community's varied assets and resources,” said Graff.

For over 50 years, United Way of Windham County has been fostering sustained, positive change by effectively mobilizing community members and other local resources throughout Windham County. United Way of Windham County works with more than two dozen partner agencies and community impact initiatives.

Anyone interested in becoming involved, making a donation or volunteering time, talent or resources is encouraged to contact United Way at 802-257-4011 ext. 110, or visit www.unitedwaywindham.org.

For interview, please contact:
Carmen Derby, Executive Director, United Way, 802-257-4011, ext 110