Ilah's Story
Ilah spurned her hopelessness and with help, is now an attorney.... MORE
|
|
 |
 |
An Interview with David W. Whitehead, United Way's new Chairman of Strategic Planning
Over the past twenty years, Mr. Whitehead has been involved in United Way of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Whitehead serves on the Board of Directors of United Way of Greater Cleveland, where he has served on both the Development and Nominating Committees. Recently, he has accepted an appointment as the Chairman of the Strategic Planning Committee for United Way.
Professionally, Mr. Whitehead is well placed to energize Cleveland's business community, literally. He is Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Chief Ethics Officer of FirstEnergy Corporation. Prior to that, he was the Director of Governmental Affairs for Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company and practiced as an environmental attorney for the company. This fall, Mr. Whitehead will be honored as the 2005 Black Professional of the Year by the Black Professionals Association Charitable Foundation.
Recently, we had the opportunity to ask Mr. Whitehead some questions about his interest in United Way and what community service means to him.
United Way: Thank you for taking the time to be with us. When did you first become involved with United Way?
David Whitehead: I first heard about United Way as a child. Over time, I have benefited from many things- some family and some social- including some that had to do with United Way organizations. One that comes to mind is The Phillis Wheatley Association while at summer camp as a child. As an adult, I have been blessed in many ways, so I feel it is important to give back to the community. I first became involved in leadership in the late 1980's, working with [Former United Way President and CEO] Jack Costello and other great people. In fact, I was on the search committee that brought Mike Benz to United Way. There are some truly great and inspiring leaders at United Way.
UW: How do you see United Way of Greater Cleveland today making a difference to communities like the one you grew up in?
DW: United Way continues to assist those who provide vital services to almost every community in Greater Cleveland. It really touches everywhere in so many meaningful ways, from neighborhood centers to First Call For Help. Also, my wife Ruvene has been a high school guidance counselor in Cleveland and has been in a position to see how United Way programs help families all around Greater Cleveland.
UW: What is the one reason you give to people about why they should contribute to United Way?
DW: Trained volunteers are in the best position to determine how resources should be allocated throughout the community. The system that United Way has developed means that decisions are driven by trained volunteers. This produces efficient and effective delivery of services to where they are needed most in a thoughtful, strategic way.
UW: Any advice on running a good workplace campaign, like you do at First Energy?
DW: Have a great corporate citizenship culture year-round. By doing so employees better understand why they are contributing and involvement in philanthropy becomes more meaningful and more thoughtful.
UW: Do you have any hobbies or outside interests?
DW: I have been known to swing a golf club on occasion and I also have been known to sit at a card table once in awhile. Vacationing with family is my favorite thing to do, though!
UW: Thank you very much for taking the time to allow us to get to know you better, Mr. Whitehead!
David W. Whitehead is a lifelong Clevelander, having grown up on the east side of town. He currently lives in Solon with his wife Ruvene and is the father of two daughters, Lora and Lisa, and the grandfather of two, Milan and Kendall, with a third on the way this summer.
|
|
|
