Since he began he has helped to raise more than $70 million dollars at local workplaces and in just the past 10 years, Kevin managed 536 workplace accounts and more than 200 campaign volunteers.
Reflections
But none of these stats speak to the power that is Kevin Montgomery. Here are just a handful of favorite memories and well wishes others wanted us to share
When I first met Kevin I thought he was so serious. But then...I saw him perform and saw him with a wig on. It's no surprise that he has completed 20 years with United Way! Kevin's heart is in the right place and his desire to help others is so genuine, and the fact that he is a performer too! Congratulations on your 20 years Kevin!
- JoAnn Yoder, is the President of Brumit Restaurant Group and has worked closely with Kevin as our volunteer Resource Development Chair
Over his two decades of service with United Way, Kevin is personally responsible for tens of millions of dollars coming into the organization and, more importantly, going out to vital organizations and initiatives aimed at making this a community where everyone can belong and thrive. Congratulations on this extraordinary achievement!
- Dan Leroy, President and CEO of United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County
In reflecting on Kevin’s 20 years of service I think about family, community, and country, all interwoven in Kevin’s story.
Family is a centerpiece of Kevin’s life. Always, whenever anyone asks Kevin about his plans over a holiday or summer weekend, they would always include dinner or a barbeque with his wife and son and members of his extended family.
His commitment to service and others was on display in his two deployments to the Middle East during the 1st and 2nd Gulf Wars where he prepared, supported, and evaluated soldiers as they either left Kuwait or returned from fighting in Iraq.
And finally, his deep knowledge of the community, dedication to his staff and volunteers, and unfailing “I’ll do anything for United Way” spirit continue to serve us well.
Kevin's knowledge of fundraising is deep and broad. It is hard to even try to capture all he knows and delivers. My most appreciated moments of Kevin working on the campaign are those CEO visits when we both attended. Having Kevin be a part of the preparation and visit was so positive. Kevin’s insights, suggestions during a CEO visit always shaped the “asks” toward a benefit for UWABC and for that company.
Congratulations and thank you, Kevin!
David Bailey - retired CEO and President of UWABC
Kevin is ALWAYS calm under pressure. This is true when it comes to deadlines and raising millions of dollars and it was true when I had a health scare at work. Kevin, in his inimitable fashion, took the lead in his calmness. I ended up having to go to the emergency room, but his quick action was so helpful in keeping me well and calm. We worked closely over the years; he was more than a colleague but a friend who extended himself to me and so many others. Congratulations to him and to United Way for a perfect pairing.
Ron Katz - worked with Kevin for more than 16 years and still counts him a dear friend
Congratulations on 20 amazing years of life-changing, positive impact with UWABC! How blessed this community is to have you as one of our strongest leaders.
I consider you among my greatest blessings, as you were the one to introduce me to the world of nonprofits. Your encouragement for me to volunteer as the Loaned Executive from Square D to the UWABC Campaign opened my eyes to this beautiful network of people and possibilities. Had it not been for you and all I've learned from you, I would not have found this incredible career of being able to make a difference in people's lives, and now animals' lives, too. I've always told you that you are my hero, and I mean it. For your kindness, your strength, your calm in any storm, your service to our country, and your love and generosity to our community.
Now, grab a tissue ;) and get ready for 20 more years! Thank you. You are the best and I love you!
Laresa Griffin - has worked alongside and been friends with Kevin for 25 years
Kevin's a devil of a snake charmer. He'll show up in my office and say "I've got an idea..." and despite my litany of questions (and protests) he usually convinces me that he's right. I appreciate his tenacity, his belief in the power of people coming together, his willingness to lead by example, and I appreciate that he didn't get me back for that time I put him in the dunk tank.
Elisabeth Bocklet - almost 13 years being charmed - oh wait, am I the snake in this story??
In 2015, I was working with CarePartners Adult Day and we asked United Way for some help building a new fence in the garden area of our respite program as a part of the Days Of Impact volunteer event. We were all set, had the tools, snacks, and posts set when the volunteer group forgot to show. I called United Way and Kevin showed up to work with me to complete the fence.
We spent a good 4 hours working and the two of us got the fence going. While working we talked joked and he made the day a real success. Because of that day, Kevin forever represents Living United in my mind. His commitment to community, relationships, and picking up the slack - all with grace and fun - is what I admire most about him. He leads by example and isn't afraid to do what needs to be done. He also has mad dance and baking skills too.
Erika Goffin - former CarePartners employee and current volunteer manager at United Way!
