Denise Peters-Kauihou named Acting President & CEO
(BLACKHAWK REGION) – United Way Blackhawk Region (UWBR) will undergo a leadership transition in the months ahead after having parted ways with Lisa Hurda, who served as President & CEO since mid-October, 2024.
“We’re grateful for the contributions Lisa made to UWBR during her tenure,” said UWBR Board of Directors Chair Tom McCawley. “Stewardship remains our top priority, and UWBR is in the best possible hands. Volunteer leadership is moving forward expediently with its transition plan.”
UWBR’s Board of Directors has appointed Vice President, Denise Peters-Kauihou as Acting President & CEO. “We appreciate Denise’s loyalty to United Way’s mission and applaud her willingness to step in and lead through the upcoming Community Grant process and the excitement of the GIVE & WIN Sweepstakes winners being announced at the Live United Celebration, A Bright Tomorrow, in March,” McCawley said. “Denise is anticipating retirement in the next few years and while not interested in pursuing the role permanently, her more than 14 years of service will help to ensure continuity of operations and stability for the team, trusted leadership for our community, and a seamless transition.”
In the current 2023-2025 Community Grant cycle, UWBR invested more than $2.6 million to fight for the health, education, and financial stability of individuals and families in the Blackhawk Region. In addition to Community Grants, UWBR also allocates resources for emergency grants and other initiatives. United Way will also continue its investment to provide 211 for the region; 211 is a 24/7 information and referral helpline that can connect residents to local resources. UWBR’s Board of Directors will vote on the 2025-2027 Community Grant investments in May.
UWBR will announce the winners of this year’s GIVE & WIN Sweepstakes at the Live United Celebration on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 at Blackhawk Technical College’s Janesville Campus Conference Center. Please visit LiveUnitedBR.org to RSVP to the event, learn more about the GIVE & WIN Sweepstakes, and about the work of United Way Blackhawk Region.