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Kelly Dimitri has served as Chief Financial Officer for The Resource Center for more than 13 years. She joined United Way as a board member in 2000.Q: What inspired you to join the Board?
A: I joined the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County in January 2020 and assumed the Treasurer role soon after that. At that time, I was approached by Adam Dolce and Rebecca Hamlet Kapple about joining the United Way Board. I was inspired by both their commitment to our community, and it motivated me to join them in their efforts to build a stronger community.
Q: What does United Way's mission mean to you personally?
A: I am truly inspired by the way the United Way is able to pool assets and deploy them to where they are needed most. Almost all people living in our community have been touched by the United Way in some way. For example, my children attended, when younger, Campus and Community Children’s Center which has benefited by United Way grants.
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: As a mother of three girls, I am drawn to the United Way’s focus on Youth Opportunities. My daughter participated in the Western New York Girls in Sports day hosted by SUNY Fredonia and supported by the United Way. In addition, I have volunteered with United Way Literacy Week as well.
Q: Can you share a moment or experience that has stood out to you during your time with United Way?
A: Amy Rohler and the United Way joined The Resource Center extended executive management team meeting to lead the “ALICE Experience”. This is an instructor-led activity that aims to foster empathy and understanding of the challenges that individuals who are asset limited, income constrained and employed, encounter daily. It was such a good reminder of the importance of meeting people where they are meeting you.
In addition, I served on the merger committee – I am truly proud of the caring work completed by the team resulting in a merged United Way of Chautauqua County.
Q: Why do you believe United Way's work is so important for Chautauqua County?
A: The United Way is supporting many Chautauqua County Charities allowing them to support so many Chautauqua County residents. The United Way truly has the connections and supports to timely pull resources to help those in need. In that way, they make the most of the donations they receive.
Q: What do you enjoy most about serving on the Board?
A: Hearing and seeing the impact of the United Way grants awarded.
Q: What's one thing you wish more people understood about United Way?
A: The merged United Way of Chautauqua County is truly committed to supporting all of Chautauqua County. Denotations to the United Way of Chautauqua County, truly stay and support Chautauqua County. .