January 2026
Dear Supporters, Volunteers, and Community Members,
The past several years have tested our community in meaningful ways. Families have faced economic uncertainty, demand for services has increased, and many moments have required us to stretch beyond what felt comfortable—or even possible. Yet time and again, Middlesex United Way has done what it has always done best: we showed up. We adapted. We stayed rooted in our mission and unwavering in our commitment to the people of Middlesex County.
That resilience does not happen by chance. It happens because of people—people who give their time, their talent, and their treasure. I am deeply grateful to our Board of Directors for their leadership, stewardship, and steady guidance, especially during challenging moments. To our dedicated staff: your diligence, creativity, and commitment to excellence make our impact possible every single day. You are the engine that drives this work forward. And to our donors, volunteers, partners, and supporters—your belief in this mission sustains us more than you know.
While we have navigated tough terrain, I am confident that we are emerging stronger, wiser, and well-positioned for what comes next. Middlesex United Way is in a good place—not because the work is finished, but because we are ready. Ready to meet the next challenge. Ready to innovate. Ready to excel in service to our community.
As we look ahead, I invite you to accept a simple but powerful challenge: help us engage one new person. One new donor. One new volunteer. One new advocate. One new believer in the power of collective impact. Growth happens one relationship at a time, and each of us plays a vital role in expanding this circle of care.
On a personal note, I recently marked my fourth year serving as President and CEO of Middlesex United Way. It is truly an honor to serve Middlesex County alongside such dedicated, compassionate, and mission-driven individuals. I am grateful for the trust you place in me and for the opportunity to lead this work together.
Thank you for walking this journey with us. I encourage you to continue lifting those who are most vulnerable—through Middlesex United Way, your faith communities, your neighborhoods, and your everyday acts of kindness. Together, we can and will continue to build a stronger, more resilient Middlesex County for all.
The best is yet to come!
- Shawonda S. Swain
President & CEO, Middlesex United Way