Published February 2004

United Way chief
takes new job

SCBJ Staff

Brent Stewart

Brent Stewart, who has headed Snohomish County’s United Way chapter since March 1999, announced in January that he is leaving to take a similar job with the United Way in Portland, Ore.

Stewart’s last day in his current job will be Feb. 20, the day after the organization’s annual wrap-up event for its fund drive.

Stewart, 44, will take over the United Way of Columbia-Willamette, which serves four counties in the greater Portland area, including Clark County in southwest Washington. Last year, that organization raised $16.7 million to fund programs at 95 area agencies.

“It’s an opportunity,” Stewart said of the decision to change jobs.

The Snohomish County chapter raised $10.26 million last year, supporting 52 agencies. No financial goal has been announced for this year’s local drive, although officials said they hoped to exceed last year’s amount.

John Gustafson, who heads the local United Way board, said it’s too early to know who will run the organization temporarily after Stewart leaves. That, along with the search process for a new permanent president, was expected to be discussed at an upcoming board meeting, Gustafson said.

“We’re losing a qualified and fine individual, a human being who was committed to Snohomish County,” he said.

In his nearly five years at the United Way of Snohomish County, Stewart led the agency through tremendous change, including local economic downturns, a possible merger with United Way of King County, and a 14-month strategic planning process that resulted in a new, compelling business model with 10 strategic goals.

Under his leadership, the organization has transformed itself from a fund-raising-only organization to a community-impact organization, with the creation of the Kids, Families and Community Matters vision councils. The three councils, made up of more than 80 community leaders and volunteers, will identify strategic areas for community improvement during the next six months, the agency said.

“It was a difficult decision to make — Snohomish County is a very special and wonderful place,” Stewart said of his leaving. “However, I take comfort in knowing that this organization, with its excellent board, top-notch staff and solid base of volunteers, will continue to be a positive force for change.”

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