United Way searching for a new boss

Kelly Gilson. (Contributed Photo)

Lee Griffi, Editor

“After 23 years as our Executive Director, and a total of 35 years as an Executive Director in the not-for-profit/charitable sector in Oxford County, Kelly Gilson will be retiring at the end of September,”

Those were the words of United Way Oxford’s President Erica Unger as the organization announced Gilson’s upcoming retirement.

“She will be greatly missed at the helm of our United Way as she has been an inspirational leader, a tireless champion for those who are marginalized, a strong community ambassador and deeply committed to building community awareness on social challenges and advocating for systems change,” added Unger.

Gilson explained her years at United Way Oxford have been a labour of love.

“The work has been energizing and the impact so rewarding. I have had the pleasure of collaborating with some of the best humans ever - staff, volunteers, donors and community partners who are all committed to helping others and building a better Oxford County for everyone.”

She added she will be forever grateful for the opportunity to serve, and it has been a privilege to have been part of a village that cares deeply for those who need a helping hand.

“I hope that when people look back on my career with United Way, they remember me as an authentic, passionate leader who cared deeply for people and the community and inspired others to collaborate to create positive social change. I did my best to use my outward-focused, commonsense approach and determination, along with my voice, to advocate on behalf of others and for what I believed was best. For me, United Way has been a labour of love, and I hope that showed,” said Gilson.

Most of her memories involve the amazing people – staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners - who joined in the organization’s efforts to ensure everyone in the community had hope, opportunities, and the support they needed to thrive.

“There have been so many incredible initiatives that I’ve had the pleasure of being involved in – our own as well as numerous collaborative undertakings – that have become foundational social service programs. It’s magical to see what can happen when the stars align…it's also a direct reflection of the hard work and relationship-building that paved the way for that alignment. While the wonderful memories are endless, I have to say that the Tillsonburg and Ingersoll Light Houses hold a special place in my heart, as those two transitional homes represent the very best that can happen when an organization leads with its values, prioritizes the people it serves, and the community embraces the effort.”

She added the United Way Oxford has been a huge part of her life both professionally and personally and admitted it won’t be easy to stay away.

“But my time as the ED will soon be over, and the future will be in the hands of the new executive director. I am incredibly proud of all that was accomplished during my time at United Way Oxford, and I will always be a champion and a donor. I can’t wait to see what comes next for United Way Oxford!”

Gilson added the United Way is responsible, accountable, and transparent, and committee members make wise investments in Oxford County.

“This is due to a talented staff and volunteer team, and it will continue long after I’ve retired. There is strong Board leadership, and they have been working on a sound succession plan to ensure a smooth transition, which they will announce shortly.”

During her tenure, United Way Oxford raised over $28,500,000 in revenues to benefit citizens

“Kelly has been an inspiring leader for our United Way, along with a respected leader across our community and an active participant within the United Way Movement provincially and nationally. We have benefited greatly from her passion, commitment, vision and integrity along with her ability to mobilize volunteers and corporate partners for good. She has built a strong and impactful organization from which we can continue to build upon as we address current and emerging social needs,” said Unger.