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Springfield, MO
Last edited 12:21 p.m., June 13, 2019
United Way of the Ozarks President and CEO Debi Meeds set a retirement date.
Meeds, who’s led the nonprofit since 2014, is scheduled to retire Aug. 1 after 30 years of service, according to a news release.
“I have been blessed to serve in a community that serves each other,” Meeds said in the release. “When we know the need — whether it is helping those homeless, struggling, disadvantaged or those that have been devastated by disaster — together we help. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve this community.”
Meeds, 68, is credited with leading implementation of Connect Springfield, a coordinated case management system for United Way of the Ozarks. The state of Missouri and national American Red Cross also have adopted a system she created while working for the nonprofit that connects disaster survivors with Multi-Agency Resource Centers.
“Debi is a phenomenal leader, especially in times of disaster. She’s the only person I know that can pick up the phone and call the national office of American Red Cross and be talking to the lead person in minutes,” said Larry Woods, director of emergency management for Greene County, in the release. “Her true passion is helping people.”
The United Way board authorized the nonprofit’s executive committee to serve as the search committee for Meeds’ replacement, said spokeswoman Jill Finney. The job will be posted internally and externally today, she said.
With a total annual budget of $5 million, United Way of the Ozarks address critical health and human service needs focused on eliminating critical issues in 14 southwest Missouri counties, according to its website.
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Debi Meeds is a devoted leader, working tirelessly in our community to connect support for those who need it, to provide information, tools, and funding for local non-profits, and always to encourage everyone in her path. Congratulations Debi for a job well done and thank you for all the genuine love with which you have done it!