Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1531086
ONWARD860 W hen we reflect on the responsibilities of a Board of Directors, we consider strategic direction, legal compliance, resource allocations, financial oversight and various other accountabilities that support and affirm the work being done by an organization. Currently, I have the honor of leading the Board of Directors that is helping shape the next chapter of United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. As we approached our Centennial milestone, we rallied our Board of Directors for a series of retreats to usher our United Way into an evolution — a new direction aligned with the needs of the times. While we recognized the great work done by our predecessors, we knew this milestone required our deepest consideration. United to End Poverty is what will spearhead all of our impact in the 860 region. After listening tours and design sessions, the transformation is still in its early stages; and, the organization is working determinedly through different efforts to chart the path to end poverty in all its forms. The Board of Directors, its Committees, United Way's President and CEO, and staff are all committed to this goal. I would like to recognize Travelers, the company that I've worked for the last decade and that has been a key stakeholder on my philanthropic journey. In addition to their support of my numerous leadership roles at United Way, Travelers has invested $12.5 million in the last decade to United Way. Not to mention, more than 1,000 Travelers employees across the state – my colleagues – annually participate in giving campaigns and volunteer projects to accomplish this goal. Travelers has also helped optimize United Way 211 operations by leveraging our expertise to improve customer experience when calling the information and referral line. The countless ways Travelers supports United Way and our community is the best example of how United Way leverages knowledge and expertise to provide companies and other stakeholders in meaningful ways to create lasting impact. United, convening sectors and mobilizing people, is what United Way will continue to do for the next century. Pete Collins Senior Vice President for Enterprise Operations, Travelers Board Chair, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut ONWARD860 4 | COMMUNITY IMPACT REPORT 2024 | UNITED WAY OF CENTRAL AND NORTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT