Submitted
The United Way of Ellis County announced today the appointment of Janelle VanKooten as its new executive director.
VanKooten officially assumed the role in mid-November, bringing almost two decades of nonprofit leadership and community systems experience to the organization.
VanKooten steps into the position at a pivotal time, ready to continue the United Way's mission of mobilizing resources to help families thrive and strengthen the Ellis County community.
“I am honored to join the United Way of Ellis County,” VanKooten said. “This community has a remarkable spirit of collaboration and generosity. I’m excited to work alongside our partners and supporters to mobilize the resources needed to help families thrive and strengthen our community.”
VanKooten’s background includes 18 years of experience in nonprofit work and leadership in community systems work, making her a strong leader for the organization’s future endeavors.
The United Way would also like to extend its deepest gratitude to Bill Ring, who served as interim director during the past six months during the agency's search for a permanent executive director.
Ring's dedication, leadership and hard work have been invaluable in guiding the organization and supporting the Ellis County community during this period of transition.
New board leadership elected
The United Way of Ellis County also announces its new board of directors leadership, who will guide the organization's strategic vision alongside the new executive director:
· President: Aaron Laad (Commerce Bank)
· Vice President: Jason Werner (Nex-Tech Wireless)
· Treasurer: Ryan Scheck (Adams Brown)
· Secretary: Becky Kiser (Eagle Media)
· Past President: Jaden Richardson (Bank of Hays)
This new leadership team, along with the entire board, is committed more than ever to the mission and success of the United Way, which has continued to impact and support Ellis County for more than 70 years. The United Way remains dedicated to investing in local programs that deliver measurable results and create lasting change.
Save the Date: Dueling Pianos fundraiser event
To support these vital community efforts, the United Way of Ellis County is excited to announce its upcoming major fundraiser—Dueling Pianos event. As its largest annual fundraiser and a staple event for the organization, this evening plays a crucial role in helping the agency advance its mission and serve the Ellis County community.
· What: Dueling Pianos Fundraiser
· When: Saturday, Feb. 7
· Where: Unrein Building at the Ellis County fairgrounds
· Purpose: To raise essential funds that allow the United Way to invest in local nonprofit partners and community initiatives.
Mark your calendars for an evening of music, fun,and fundraising to benefit the Ellis County community. If you or your business is interested in sponsorship opportunities for this event, reach out to Janelle VanKooten, executive director, at [email protected] for more information. Ticket details and a link will be released soon.
About United Way of Ellis County
For more than 70 years, the United Way of Ellis County has worked to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of the community to advance the common good. It does this by focusing on education, income and health—the building blocks for a good quality of life. To learn more about the agency's impact, ways to donate and how to get involved, visit www.liveunited.us.