MOUNT VERNON – Lori Jones-Perkins, executive director of New Directions, has been named executive director of the United Way of Knox County, effective July 31. Jones-Perkins replaces Kelly Brenneman, who announced her May 31 retirement in January.
“I am excited for this opportunity,” said Jones-Perkins, a lifelong Knox County resident. “As the next executive director of United Way, I will further my commitment to Knox County and the multiple programs that exist with the help of United Way funding. I know that I have been led to this new position and am forever grateful to the staff and board of New Directions for their tireless work with the agency and their support of me moving on.”
The United Way of Knox County Board welcomes Jones-Perkins to the role of executive director after an extensive search.
“Lori brings a wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector, both by serving in prominent roles of two United Way partner agencies as well as on community boards and committees,” said board member Bethany Celmar. “We know United Way of Knox County will be in great hands under the direction of Lori.”
Jones-Perkins has served as executive director of New Directions since March of 2018, working to enhance and improve the work internal to the agency, participating in countywide initiatives and managing all aspects of grant funds. Additionally, she implemented the first-ever capital campaign in the agency’s 40-year history. This included the purchase and restoration of a building, which will allow the agency to expand services.
Now in its 72nd year, the United Way of Knox strategically connects partners and resources to community needs in order to measurably impact the quality of lives of Knox County residents. Since 1951, local volunteers have been responsible for raising more than $20 million to impact the quality of life for Knox County residents.
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