New United Way Strategic Alliance Expands Community Impact Across Central Connecticut

Hartford, CT (July 14, 2025) United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut and United Way of West Central Connecticut jointly announced a new strategic alliance designed to enhance community impact, streamline operations, and expand services across the region. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in aligning resources and expertise to unite the 860 region and create a greater impact for individuals and families, while preserving the unique strengths and community connections of each organization.

The new organization will serve one third of the state’s population across 56 cities and towns.

“We are thrilled to form this alliance built on a foundation of shared purpose, complementary strengths, and a strong history of collaboration,” said Eric Harrison, President and CEO of United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “By aligning operations and combining resources, we will be better positioned to increase our impact in early childhood education, financial stability and homelessness while creating operational efficiencies, and strengthening our collective voice across the 860 region. This is a win for the communities we serve and our entire United Way network,” added Harrison.

As part of this effort, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut will continue to build on its community engagement model which will now include:

A newly formed Regional Advisory Board, made up of cross-sector volunteers focused on community impact and input, will represent United Way of West Central Connecticut and the communities they serve, led by the current Board Chair of United Way of West Central Connecticut, Rachel Beckwith.

Design workgroups with United Way’s strategic partners, stakeholders and residents who will collaborate to create systems change.

“Our team and board members are excited for the new opportunity ahead. While the alliance will integrate operations with United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut it will also fully honor and preserve the distinct identity, relationships, and community presence both organizations have built over more than 100 years of service,” said Rachel Beckwith, Chair, United Way of West Central Connecticut Board of Directors.

Below is a list of individuals who will lead the organization. These individuals will make up the Senior Leadership Team and they, alongside talented staff, which includes all team members from United Way of West Central Connecticut, will help to ensure the success of the newly formed alliance.

• Eric Harrison, President and CEO
• Jennifer Bengtson, Chief Financial Officer
• Brandon Emerson, Chief Philanthropy Officer
• Maura Cook, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Development
• Jen Gifford, Senior Vice President, Community Impact and Engagement
• Manny Martinez, Vice President, Regional Engagement

Visit unitedwayinc.org for more information.

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About United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut 

United Way closes gaps in child literacy, housing, wages and life expectancy to make the 860 region an equitable place where everyone succeeds. United Way does this by aligning partners across sectors to end poverty; leveraging information and experience to deepen impact; connecting people with resources and opportunities to make a difference; and, transforming the future with game-changing solutions. For more information visit unitedwayinc.org.

Media Contact:

Anyeline Céspedes López, 787.502.0436, acespedes@unitedwayinc.org