Kathy Burch has served as Chief Financial Officer at Gebbie Foundation since March 2018. She came to the Foundation from the Chautauqua County Health Network, where she served as the Administrative Director. Prior to that, she worked for more than 25 years at the American Red Cross in a wide range of capacities.
Kathy holds a BS in Management from Houghton College, and an Associate degree in Business Accounting from Jamestown Community College. She is currently serving as the treasurer for the Rotary Club of Jamestown Community Service Fund and on the Board of Directors for the Jamestown Community Learning Council. However, she is most proud of becoming a grandma for the first time four months ago to Maddox, the cutest baby ever (though she could be a little biased).
Q: How long have you been involved with United Way of Chautauqua County?
A: I have been involved with the United Way for over 35 years, serving on the Board since 2022.
Q: What inspired you to join the Board?
A: I’ve always admired how United Way can make such an impact in our community through supporting so many local nonprofits. While working for the American Red Cross for over 26 years, I saw firsthand the difference the organization has on our local non-profits.
Q: What does United Way's mission mean to you personally?
A: To me, it means that the UW is there to help improve the lives of everyone in the community.
Q: What's one of UWCHQ's impact areas (Youth Opportunity, Health Equity, Community Resiliency or Self Sufficiency) that resonates most with you, and why?
A: I think that health equity is a very impactful area that UW supports due to the number of families that we have in poverty or right on the edge at are considered “ALICE” families in our county.
Q: Can you share a moment or experience that has stood out to you during your time with United Way?
A: I would have to say when I participated in an “ALICE” training and come to understand some of the struggles that people right here in the county are experiencing every day.
Q: Why do you believe United Way's work is so important for Chautauqua County?
A: United Way serves as the connection between those in need and the resources that can help, ensuring that every donor dollar raised is spent in our county.
Q: What do you enjoy most about serving on the Board?
A: Working with other area leaders from different sectors of life with the same goal – a stronger Chautauqua County.
Q: What's one thing you wish more people understood about United Way?
A: I wish they knew that the United Way is much more than a fundraiser, but we are an organization that supports programs that make impactful changes to the lives of local individuals.
Q: Anything else you would like to say about United Way or our work in the community?
A: I am proud to say I am on the Board of the United Way of Chautauqua County as the organization makes such a tangible difference in our community.