On February 6, 2025, United Way of Greater St. Joseph hosted its Annual Meeting, bringing together community members, business leaders, and volunteers to celebrate the organization’s impact in 2024 and look ahead to the exciting initiatives planned for 2025.
The event marked a transition in leadership as Michelle Clark was announced as the new Chair of the Board of Directors, following her role as Vice Chair under Phil Gould in 2024. Clark, a dedicated United Way leader for six years, expressed excitement about stepping into this role.
“We have some phenomenal board members coming on and are really sad to see those that are leaving, but excited to see the heartbeat of the community come together in that board capacity,” Clark shared to the local media. “We have a lot going on in St. Joe, and I’m really excited for United Way to be a part of it.”
Outgoing Chair Phil Gould reflected on his time leading the organization and the community’s dedication to supporting United Way’s mission.
“Being part of the United Way Board is really a team effort,” Gould said during an interview. “We have a great team and staff at United Way, and I wanted to continue the legacy of being a core organization for St. Joseph, one that is responsive to community needs and ready to step up in times of crisis.”
The Annual Meeting also recognized retiring board members for their dedication:
- Stephanie Bush
- Katie Carolus
- Chris Clark
- Jeremiah Hollars
- Cynde Veale
- Darrick Inscho
- Carol Walter
Retiring Board Members
The new and renewing board members for 2025 include:
- Renewing for a three-year term: Joe Hegeman, Ashly McGinnis, Chris Schmitter, Tom Richmond
- Renewing for a two-year term: Charisse Vaughn
- Renewing for a one-year term: Matt Wooten
- New board members (three-year term): Drew Catron, Susanne Eichenmueller, Jess DeHaven, Paul Luster, Jeff Penland, Jason Swofford
New and Renewing Board Members
The Executive Board for 2025 is:
- Chair: Michelle Clark
- Vice-Chair: Doug Walter
- Secretary: Mike Hurst
- Treasurer: Phil Michaud
2025 Executive Board
Recognizing Outstanding Partners and Volunteers
During the event, United Way presented three prestigious awards to recognize outstanding community partners:
United Way Outstanding Partner Award: St. Joseph School District
United Way Spirit of Community Award: Commerce Bank
The 2024 United Way Outstanding Volunteer Award honored Terri Modlin. Mayor John Josendale also recognized Doug and Carol Walter, as well as Phil Gould, for their dedication to United Way and the St. Joseph community.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Clark shared her vision for 2025, emphasizing United Way’s ongoing fundraising efforts and new volunteer opportunities.
The annual fundraising campaign raises crucial funds for United Way’s 17 partner agencies across St. Joseph, ensuring critical services and resources remain available to those in need.
Clark also announced the return of a community favorite and the launch of a new volunteer opportunity:
- Taste of United Way – A fun way for the community to connect with United Way while enjoying great food.
- Caring Connection Crew – A new volunteer program to expand engagement opportunities beyond traditional roles.
“We know St. Joseph is a giving community,” Clark said. “People want to support each other, and we’re excited to explore new ways to get them involved beyond just giving once a year.”
Continuing the Mission
As United Way transitions into 2025, the message remains clear, through partnership, coordination, and cooperation, we can make tomorrow better than today.
United Way of Greater St. Joseph will continue working toward improving the community's education, health, and financial stability. It will ensure that resources, advocacy, and support reach those who need them most.
As Clark, the new board members, and United Way’s dedicated staff take on the challenges and opportunities of the year ahead, they remain committed to creating real impact in St. Joseph.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Annual Meeting and those who continue supporting United Way. Together, we are the caring power of the community.
