Pikes Peak United Way (PPUW) in Colorado Springs bids farewell to its president and CEO, Cindy Aubrey, as she announces her retirement this year.
Aubrey’s Legacy at PPUW
Cindy Aubrey joined PPUW in February 2015 and took the helm as CEO in 2017. Her decade-long tenure has been marked by significant achievements and community impact.
Under her leadership, PPUW witnessed:
- Family Success Center Initiative: Aubrey spearheaded the establishment of the Family Success Center in southeast Colorado Springs. This center offers a spectrum of services, including food assistance, healthcare, education, after-school activities, financial literacy programs, and more.
- Financial Support to Nonprofits: Aubrey secured and allocated substantial funding to various nonprofits in the community, amounting to millions of dollars.
- Care and Share Program: She initiated the Care and Share food distribution program at Mitchell High School, addressing food insecurity among students.
- Disaster Response Planning: Aubrey played a pivotal role in devising and executing a disaster response plan in collaboration with partner agencies, ensuring the community’s resilience during the pandemic.
- Centennial Celebration: Recognizing United Way’s centennial milestone, Aubrey led the commemoration of PPUW’s 100th anniversary, highlighting its enduring impact.
- Community Partnerships: She fostered strategic partnerships with entities such as the city of Colorado Springs, El Paso County, healthcare institutions, educational organizations like UCCS, and various nonprofits across El Paso County.
- Board and Public Policy Initiatives: Aubrey established a robust Board of Directors comprising community leaders and an active public policy team that engages in public debates and forums, advocating for the interests of El Paso County residents.
Recognition and Accolades
Aubrey’s exemplary leadership garnered recognition both locally and statewide:
- Colorado Coaches for Charity MVP Award (2021): Acknowledged for her outstanding contributions to the community.
- Business Leader of the Year (2022): Honored by the Southern Colorado Women’s Chamber for her business acumen and leadership.
- Athena Award Finalist: Recognized by the Colorado Springs Chamber for her professional achievements.
- Colorado Springs Business Journalism Woman of Influence: Celebrated for her significant impact on the local business landscape.
Aubrey’s Reflections and Future Plans
Expressing gratitude for her tenure, Cindy Aubrey remarked, I feel truly blessed and honored to have been given the opportunity to lead Pikes Peak United Way. She looks forward to spending more time with her new granddaughter post-retirement.
Succession Planning at PPUW
The Pikes Peak United Way Board of Directors has initiated a search and selection process to identify Aubrey’s successor, ensuring continuity in the organization’s mission and impact.
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