WILDWOOD — The current economic crisis is taking its toll on the United Way of Cape May County. The charity lost a major state grant earlier this year, and on Tues., June 15, its executive board voted with regret to approve a staff restructuring that would eliminate the position of longtime Executive Director, Suzanne Nardi.
Unfortunately, recent cuts to state grants and declining donations put a strain on the organization. As a result, the board decided that eliminating the executive position would allow the United Way to continue its mission and maintain funding levels for many local programs. It’s a dilemma many other charities and non-profits are also facing.
Nardi was employed by the county United Way for 20 years, during which time, she oversaw the implementation of the agency’s First Call for Help food pantry and hot lunch program and worked with hundreds of volunteers, partner agencies and donors to assist Cape May County residents in crisis. She is perhaps most familiar as the person who launched and maintained the now-famous Rubber Ducky Regatta.
“It was a difficult decision for everyone,” Board President Jim Farrell said. “But with the decrease in funding, it is necessary. We are grateful to Suzanne for all she’s done in the community, and we wish her the best in all her future endeavors.”
The United Way will continue its work in the community, Farrell said, but more that ever the board will rely on volunteers and a part-time administrative staff person to get the job done.
“We are an important organization in our community,” Farrell said, “And we are making changes so that we can be a stronger organization now and in the future.”
For more information on how you can support United Way of Cape May County, call 609-729-2002.
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