United Way of Martin County is looking for leadership in its annual campaign, seeking enthusiastic people – working or retired – with a strong desire to make a difference in the community.

Volunteers are needed who can serve as “Loaned Executives” to help United Way reach out to local businesses and assist in workplace campaigns. Training is scheduled for Sept. 6-7.

The traditional Loaned Executive is someone currently in the business world. However, because of Martin County’s unique demographics, United Way is seeking the help and experience of retired people in the community.

The recruitment effort is spearheaded by Loaned Executive chairman Frank Salerno, a retired executive from Fleet Bank in New England.

Mr. Salerno is looking for a few more volunteers just like himself – retirees looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity and a way to connect with their community. When he was a new Martin County resident, Mr. Salerno said the Loaned Executive experience helped him use his skills, meet new people, and learn about local programs and organizations.

“United Way’s Loaned Executive program provided me with the opportunity to work with caring and interesting people throughout Martin County,” Mr. Salerno said. “In addition, I have seen firsthand how important Loaned Executives are to United Way's success in raising funds and educating individuals to the importance of local health and human service programs.”

United Way also welcomes Loaned Executives who are presently working. Typically, Loaned Executives are assigned seven to 10 accounts and spend an average of four hours per week for 14 weeks engaged in business-related activities for United Way. It is an ideal way for employees to be trained as leaders and to make contacts within the business community.

“Because Martin County’s business leaders have provided volunteers in the past, United Way has been able to help thousands of our neighbors, friends and families,” Mr. Salerno said.

To learn how you can participate, please contact Lucy Corley, director of development, (772) 283-4800, ext 222, or lcorley@unitedwaymartincounty.org.

For more information about United Way of Martin County, visit www.unitedwaymartincounty.org or call (772) 283-4800.