×

New director selected for United Way

The Inter-Mountain photo by Tim MacVean Randolph County native Karrah Washington recently has been appointed to the position of executive director for United Way of Randolph County.

ELKINS — A Randolph County native has been selected as the new leader of the Randolph County United Way.

Karrah Washington is the newly appointed executive director of the organization, following an announcement by the United Way of Randolph County Board of Directors.

“I am honored to have been selected for the position,” Washington said. “I look forward to working with the donors, partner agencies, community leaders and board members to continue the impactful work that United Way of Randolph County does in this community.”

Her appointment came after the departure of JoBeth Johnston, who is relocating to another state.

Washington said her main goal is to work to generate funding for the United Way by building relationships with area businesses through workplace campaigns.

“One of the new goals they have for me and I have for myself is workplace campaigns, because if we can get more businesses participating in workplace campaigns, then that is just donations that are constantly coming in — not just a one-time fundraiser that you do annually,” Washington said. “Workplace campaigns normally come in monthly or however the workplace wants to do it.”

Washington has a bachelor’s degree in social work from West Virginia University and minors in communications, and child development and family studies. Through her previous work and volunteerism, she has participated and raised funds for many countywide charitable events.

“We actually moved back here from Morgantown last February. I went to college at WVU and we stayed in that area for a little while, but our goal was to get back to this area. I have been working in social services but (being named executive director is) something incredible — it means a lot to me to be able to do something for my hometown,” she said. “I did a lot of work in Morgantown and Marion County, but it is often difficult to work in social services because you’re not as aware of the resources if you work in a county you are not from. Growing up in Randolph County, I am really familiar with the people, the agencies and I have more of those close bonds with others.”

Kathy Leombruno, president of the United Way of Randolph County board of directors, said the organization is thrilled with the addition of Washington.

“Karrah is already actively involved in and around the community. She’s comfortable with fundraising and actually enjoys the challenges,” Leombruno said. “She has previously been involved with United Way as a volunteer and a donor. We feel confident that she is going to push us to our fullest potential and advance the great work of our organization.”

She is married to Brandon Washington and the two share two children, Brayton and Braelynn. She is a native of Mill Creek and attended Tygarts Valley Middle-High School. She now resides in Elkins.

One event coming up for the United Way of Randolph County is an outdoor yard sale, slated for April 28. Items can be dropped off at the United Way office, located at 309 Henry Ave., during business hours. Large item pickup can be arranged by calling 304-636-0516 or emailing info@unitedwayrandolphwv.com.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $3.92/week.

Subscribe Today