Jan. 26, 2023
By John Bailey
There is nothing more valuable to a non-profit than a volunteer and there is nothing more inspiring than the absolute dedication of a volunteer.
The Catawba County United Way (CCUW) had the privilege of experiencing just this, the last two years with the agency’s board president Amy Guyer (VP Human Resources RHF/Century).
Despite only being required to serve a single year, Guyer served through two years as board president because of the pandemic, ensuring the Catawba County United Way continued to move forward to benefit those in need during those uncertain times.
Guyer stepped down as board president during the CCUW’s board meeting earlier this week. She’s served a total of six years on the CCUW board.
Johann Louchez (Senior VP/Market Pres. Metrolina Region Truist Bank) stepped up to take on the role of CCUW board president. Louchez spent the last two years as the United Way’s Campaign Chair.
“Amy led our board and our organization through challenges fearlessly. Not only did she have the Pandemic during her tenure, she had the retirement of a beloved and experienced Executive Director (Jennie Connor); despite this, she agreed to serve an additional term to ensure stability,” Catawba County United Way Executive Director Mark Bumgarner said. “Working with Amy as a newly hired Executive Director was such a great experience. Her wisdom, guidance and support have been invaluable to me and the organization.
Bumgarner added Guyer leaves the CCUW in good hands with its new slate of officers and existing board members.
“But we all agree there is only one Amy Guyer, and we’ll miss her,” Bumgarner said.
Guyer said she’s grateful for her time with the CCUW.
“The United Way team has demonstrated an unwavering dedication and resiliency as they lead resource development for programs benefiting health, education, and income,” she said.
Some of her favorite moments include witnessing the Catawba County Youth Council’s allocation process, helping with the inaugural Race United Event at Hickory Motor Speedway, and visiting with employers during campaign kickoffs.
“I’m grateful for Century Furniture’s commitment to our community and the encouragement I’ve received from them to serve the United Way,” Guyer said. “As a Human Resources professional, I can rely on the United Way as a referral partner to assist employees when they face crisis.
“The United Way is fortunate to have engaged Board Members and Strategic Leadership willing to put in the hours to address evolving needs in our community.”
Learn more about the Catawba County United Way’s impact at ccunitedway.com or call 828-327-6851.