At United Way of Frederick County, we are proud to recognize the leaders who h.png)
ave helped build and sustain our mission through years of dedicated service. We celebrate Mary Ellis, whose 11-year tenure on our Board of Directors reflects not just longevity, but a deep, meaningful impact on every aspect of our work.
Mary has been one of our most steadfast and skilled grant writing volunteers, leveraging her expertise to help us secure more than $500,000 in direct funding. Her writing helped bring critical resources to programs like Ride United Network, Pathway to Homeownership, and VITA—initiatives that provide real, tangible support to ALICE households striving for financial stability and long-term success.
But Mary's contributions go far beyond grant proposals.
As Chair of the Governance Committee, Mary brought clarity, consistency, and a deep commitment to good stewardship. Her leadership ensured that our policies and practices reflected our values and positioned us for long-term success. She also played a central role in strategic planning and vision building, offering thoughtful insights that have guided our direction in critical moments of growth and change.
Through these behind-the-scenes efforts, Mary helped lay the groundwork for an additional $1.5 million in long-term community impact—ensuring that our work is not only financially sound, but also aligned with the evolving needs of Frederick County.
Mary’s leadership style is intentional and humble, but her influence is undeniable. Her voice at the table has been essential to shaping the organization’s future, and her belief in the mission has inspired those around her to think boldly and act with purpose.
Thank you, Mary, for your 11 years of service, leadership, and heart. Your legacy will continue in the programs you helped fund, the plans you helped shape, and the lives you've touched through your tireless work. We are profoundly grateful.
