Fogle announces retirement after 30 years of leadership in local United Way

NC GAZETTE / WBRT RADIO
STAFF REPORT

Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017, 12:10 a.m. — Kenny Fogle, executive director of Tri-County Kentucky United Way, announced he will step down from the position at the end of June.

KENNY FOGLE

Fogle made the announcement at the January United Way board meeting, citing the need for new ideas and a new generation of leadership to step into the executive director’s position.

He was instrumental in founding the local United Way chapter, then called United Way of Nelson County, along with Bernie Keene and Tom Isaac. During the United Way’s three decades, Fogle served five terms as the organization’s president, treasuer for three years, and has led each of the organization’s major committees — marketing, allocations and campaign.

Fogle told the board that his retirement from United Way will allow new leadership with new enthusiasm to assume leadership. A new voice is needed from time to time to keep the organization and its mission fresh, he told the board.

The local United Way organization was initially established to raise money for charitable groups that served health and huma services in Nelson County. In 2014, its mission expanded to include Washington and Marion County, and former Marion County judge-executive John G. Mattingly joined the organization.

During his tenure, Fogle led the way on changes in the local United Way operation and in building support for the agencies it supported. He helped create the Spirit 5k walk/run that takes place each year during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, and was instrumental in creating the Tri-County Trifecta, which added 5k walk/runs in Washington and Marion County.

Dooley Mattingly, president of Tri-County Kentucky United Way, estimates that more than $4 million was raised and distributed in the community to agencies who help individuals and families in need.

Kevin Middleton, President of the United Way of Kentucky, said Fogle will be missed, and called him an example of what a community leader should be.

The organization’s board will develop its plan to recruit a new executive director, with a goal of having someone in place before the end of June. Fogle and assistant director John G. Mattingly are the organization’s only paid staff.

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