Pictured Left to Right – Richard Kennedy, Past Chair and Director of TN Commission on Children and Youth, Leslie Dalton, Board Chair of United Ways of TN and President & CEO of United Way of East TN Highlands, and Matt Marshall , United Ways of TN State Director.
Leslie Dalton, President & CEO of United Way of East Tennessee Highlands, has accepted the board role of Chair for the United Ways of Tennessee. This two-year term will see Dalton supporting the state organization in strategic planning and disaster preparedness, leveraging her experience within our region following the events of Hurricane Helene.
“I’m honored to serve in this role at the state level. Over the past year, our community has faced significant challenges, but we’ve also gained invaluable insight into what it truly means to come together in times of crisis. During my term, I’m committed to helping United Ways across the state strengthen their preparedness and response efforts so they can lead effectively when their communities need them most. I also look forward to contributing to strategic planning efforts and supporting the important work of our state director.” — Leslie Dalton, President & CEO, United Way of East Tennessee Highlands
“Leslie Dalton is exactly the kind of leader this moment calls for. She brings deep roots in community, a steady hand, and a genuine heart for the people United Way exists to serve. I’ve watched her lead with both vision and grace, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and I couldn’t be more grateful she’s stepping into this role as Board Chair. The United Ways of Tennessee are better together because she said yes.” — Matt Marshall, President & CEO, United Ways of Tennessee
About United Ways of Tennessee
United Ways of Tennessee, a statewide organization, is an association of 28 United Ways across the state, coming together for collective action and acting as a driving force behind initiatives that provide solutions to our community’s most critical needs.
About United Way of East Tennessee Highlands
United Way of East Tennessee Highlands serves Carter, Johnson, and Washington counties in Northeast Tennessee, with a strong focus on supporting ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. These are individuals and families who are working, often in essential roles, yet still struggle to afford basic needs such as housing, childcare, food, and transportation. While earning above the federal poverty line, ALICE households are often one unexpected expense away from financial crisis and typically do not qualify for most government assistance programs. Addressing the needs of ALICE is central to United Way’s mission of building long-term financial stability and strengthening the overall resilience of the community they serve.
In response to Hurricane Helene, the organization expanded its reach to serve six counties, coordinating a regional effort alongside other local United Ways to collect and distribute monetary donations and mobilize volunteers across impacted communities. This coordinated approach not only accelerated immediate relief efforts but also established a stronger framework for regional collaboration and disaster response moving forward.