Heart of Maine United Way announces Ward as vice president of philanthropy & donor engagement

BANGOR  – Heart of Maine United Way is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jessica Ward as the first vice president of philanthropy and donor engagement, a brand-new role created to enhance HoMEUW’s strategic fundraising initiatives and donor relationships. Jessica’s appointment follows an extensive and competitive search process.

Jessica brings a unique blend of personal and professional experience to HoMEUW. Her career spans teaching, marketing, account management, and business development, coupled with her personal involvement in fundraising and leadership for many local organizations. These attributes make her a natural fit for the vice president of philanthropy & donor engagement, where she will lead strategic fundraising initiatives and build robust donor relationships across HoMEUW’s six-county region.

“Jessica’s strong marketing and relationship-building skills, combined with her deep commitment to and passion for, community service, make her an excellent fit for this role,” said Shirar Patterson, president & CEO of Heart of Maine United Way. “Her innovative approach and energetic leadership will drive our philanthropic efforts to new heights, helping us achieve our bold goals of meeting basic needs, supporting recovery from substance use disorder, and ensuring quality early learning experiences for all children.”

Jessica is deeply embedded in the Bangor community, serving on the boards of the Bangor Historical Society and Dirigo Reads, and actively participating in significant events like the Bangor Symphony Orchestra Soiree and The Friends of the Cross Insurance Center Gala. She is also a steering committee member for the Bangor Region Leadership Institute, further demonstrating her dedication to regional development. Jessica created the “Pivot Playbook” series, sharing insights from her professional transformation, highlighting her ability to adapt and lead through change.

“I am thrilled to join Heart of Maine United Way and contribute to their mission of improving lives throughout the Heart of Maine,” said Jessica. “I look forward to leveraging my skills and experiences to foster strong relationships with donors and community partners, driving impactful initiatives that make a lasting difference.”

In her new role, Jessica will leverage her extensive network and strategic insight to enhance Heart of Maine United Way’s results, ensuring continued support for essential programs and services. Jessica’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for HoMEUW enhancing the focus on strategic corporate and donor engagement that will increase the reach and impact toward the mission of mobilizing the caring power of people and communities in the Heart of Maine.

Since 1937 Heart of Maine United Way has been mobilizing the caring power of people and communities throughout Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Somerset, Waldo, and Washington counties to provide essential services and identify solutions aimed at creating lasting changes to the root causes of the community’s most pressing needs. HoMEUW is focused on improving Basic Needs, Substance Use Disorder and Early Childhood Development for all; helping tens of thousands of people access basic services in times of crisis while engaging hundreds of individuals and organizations to improve our communities and make them stronger. In 2024 HoMEUW will support 122,748 people in the community which equates to 1 in 3 people. For more information on HoMEUW and our work visit www.HoMEUnitedWay.org or call us at 207-941-2800.