United Way of Pioneer Valley Announces New Leadership and Partnership

SPRINGFIELD — The United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced it has hired Paul Mina as its new president and CEO as part of an overall management agreement. Mina brings 30 years of United Way experience to the Pioneer Valley.

“I’m so happy and honored to be able to work with the UWPV team as we grow the organization and take advantage of the tremendous upside potential this region has to offer,” Mina said.

In addition, Steve Lowell, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank and chairman of the UWPV board, announced that the organization is entering into a management agreement with the United Way of Tri-County (UWTC).

“This partnership with a sister organization will allow us to substantially reduce overhead expenses and allocate more money directly into the UWPV community,” Lowell said. “Paul’s experience and familiarity with our region will allow this to happen. Our board is very excited about the potential this partnership brings to the table.”

Mina will be reporting to the UWPV board of directors so that local control and oversight is maintained.

The UWTC is responsible for overseeing the Mass 211 program, the statewide source for essential community services. Mina noted that more than 45% of the phone calls to the Mass 211 helpline originate from the UWPV service area, so he is familiar with the work being done in the community.

“The ability to maintain our local fundraisers and community-impact personnel, while leveraging the backroom from the UWTC, will make us a stronger organization,” Lowell said, as he praised interim CEO Kathy Dube for her outstanding stewardship over the past several months. “Kathy, along with our professional staff, have been the engine that has kept us going during this transition period. Kathy’s experience as a member of our board of directors, as well as being one of the founders of the Women’s Leadership Council, made her the ideal choice for the interim role.”