Photo by Amy Cherry Sherron McGowan, the new executive director of the St. Marys Area United Way, is looking forward to continuing the success of the organization.

McGowan took office in mid-February and just days into her new position was contacted by a local family who pledged a $4,000 donation which helped the United Way reach its 2009 fundraising goal of $200,000.

“We are moving toward greatness and I am hoping to keep the programs going and maintaining the excellent work of Julia and Laura,” McGowan said referring to former executive director Julia Reitz who recently retired and Laura Gerber, the organization’s treasurer and office manager.

She explained the United Way does a self-assesment on each chapter every three years and the St. Marys chapter was found to have gone through a remarkable charge during its review last fall.

“I hope to see in our next self-assessment that we are even a stronger St. Marys United Way,” McGowan said. “Julia did a stellar job and I look forward to following in her footsteps. I definitely have big shoes to fill.”

McGowan noted that each year the United Way’s goal is to conduct a successful campaign. She added that she hopes to raise the goal in order to provide additional funding to the various local agencies.

“Its definitely not getting any easier for the agencies,” she said.

McGowan is also looking forward to continuing the Backpack Program, established by Reitz, which provides each kindergarten student in Elk County with a backpack filled with numerous school supplies.

The Backpack Program is part of the United Way’s Success By Six endeavor which includes Born Learning and the book drive. Success By Six focuses on improving school readiness for pre-kindergarten students.

She explained the funding for the Backpack Program is provided by donors looking to fund specific projects, rather than to the overall campaign.  

“The United Way was a great place to land. This is a wonderful agency,” McGowan said. “Everyone does a little bit and it makes a huge impact.”