KOKOMO, IN / PRESS RELEASE – On behalf of the Board of Directors of United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties, the Executive Committee announces staff changes effective June 1 until the conclusion of the mayoral race for Kokomo to ensure the organization is able to serve the community to its full capacity in an effective manner.

Jeff Young will continue his role as Board Chairman and Interim President and CEO. Libby O’Brien, recently promoted to Community Development Director, will serve as Interim Executive Director, and will report to Jeff Young.

Abbie Smith, mayoral candidate, will continue on leave of absence from her previous role as President and CEO and continue to be a consultant to the organization. Smith’s consulting time reduced to a maximum of two days per week during the general election effective June 1. Smith will focus on staff development, Heart of Indiana, Search United Way and other internal key projects approved by the Board of Directors. Smith will not be involved in any funding decisions or public engagements for United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties.

“I have complete confidence in Libby’s ability to embrace her new role and look forward to Abbie continuing to provide assistance to internal key projects that will have a lasting impact on the community,” said Young. “The staff has been incredible to work with and I am honored to continue as Interim President and CEO with the board and community’s overwhelming support.”

United Way will remain neutral throughout Smith’s candidacy. Staff and board members will continue to work hard as we fulfill the mission of our organization fighting for the health, education and financial stability of every person in our communities.

“This work is not about us; it’s about the people we serve,” said O’Brien, Interim Executive Director. “I look forward to continuing to support United Way’s mission in serving our community with the amazing staff here at United Way.”

Questions may be directed to Jeff Young at 765-457-4357 ext. 313 or at jyoung@unitedwayhoco.org.