Manatee County's United Way Executive Director Resigns

Jerry Koontz, who has served for nearly two decades as president of United Way of Manatee County, has announced that he will resign from the nonprofit’s executive post for personal reasons.

“It has been a great privilege to serve our United Way for more than 18 years, and I am confident of its continued success in effectively and efficiently addressing the needs of the citizens of Manatee County in the years ahead,” Koontz said.

Koontz, 68, was named president of the United Way in 1993.  During his tenure, the agency saw increases in giving. At the same time he agency increased its allocations to the community's human service programs. Koontz was also helped establish the leadership giving program and the United Way Foundation.

John Annis board chairman for the United Way, said that Koontz has ably served the agency and its many partners. The executive committee of the United Way Board of Directors will appoint an interim director while it searches for a replacement.

“As we honor Jerry’s service and respect his decision to focus on family, the board and staff will continue to work closely with our partners and supporters to make a measurable difference in people’s lives," Annis said. "We have an incredible staff and a motivated volunteer board fully capable of accomplishing our mission while we identify the next president.”