Alison Dunlap Photography

Marissa Christie, President & CEO of United Way, Bucks County

Marissa Christie believes that when we focus on what unites us, we are far more powerful than when we work alone.  It is not a surprise, then, that she is the President & CEO United Way in Bucks County. After working in the book business for a decade, she decided that she wanted to pivot to a career where she could make a difference in the lives of others. She found what she sought at the United Way.  Marissa tells us that the United Way in Bucks runs high-impact programs year-round that changes lives. The organization takes a holistic approach that treats quality education, good health, and financial stability as inextricably linked. For example, it provides Pre-K scholarships to local families, ensures county-wide distribution of healthy food, and helps to stabilize families – particularly those who are ALICE (asset limited, income constrained, employed).

We asked Marissa:

What initiative in your organization makes you the proudest?

One project that really stands out is establishing our HELP Center. It’s a collaboration between us, Bucks County Opportunity Council, and St Mary Medical Center, with generous support from Penn Community Bank.  We distribute millions of dollars’ worth of essential goods to thousands of people.   At HELP, my team runs a “store” full of essential items – clothing, furniture, linens, school supplies, furniture, hygiene products – you name it! Everything is brand new free to folks who need our help.

 What surprised you the most in your organization’s history, pleasantly or unpleasantly?

I love United Way’s origin story! We were founded in 1887 by a woman, a priest, two ministers, and a rabbi. It definitely sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but it’s true! They started a global movement focused on bringing people together for the greater good – and we are still thriving over 130 years later.

What advice would you share for any woman looking to start or join an organization such as yours?

If you want this to be your career, start connecting with women in nonprofit leadership roles. Get clear on the pros and cons of making the shift and consider some formal and informal learning opportunities.  

We asked her a few fun questions, too:

Who are your business icons, if any, and why?

I really admire Jeane Vidoni, President and CEO at Penn Community Bank. She is such an authentic leader. Her words and actions are always aligned, which to me is true leadership. She does so much to create positive change and growth in our community. I feel lucky to know her – and be able to seek her wise counsel on occasion!

The best piece of advice that a mentor gave to you …could be anyone in your life or on any subject?

I’ve had the privilege of working with many phenomenal people. I once asked an author I admire how she managed to publish books on so many topics. She said, “Never underestimate the power of preparedness meeting opportunity.” I’ve taken that to heart. I am always preparing for the next challenge and opportunity. My colleagues are the same way. They wrap a project and start planning how to make the next year even better.