Mercer County United Way Executive Director to Retire

HERMITAGE, Pa. — Jim Micsky, long-time executive director of the Mercer County United Way, announced this week that he will retire effective May 1.

Micsky notified the Mercer County United Way Board of Directors at its meeting Feb. 19. “It was with deep regret that the board reluctantly accepted Jim’s letter of retirement,” stated William Gathers, board chairman.

Micsky has served the Mercer chapter for 32 years in multiple roles and was named executive director in 1998. Before that appointment, he served as the community services liaison.

“Jim has, without a doubt, made a substantial positive impact on virtually every area of Mercer County,” Gathers observed. “He led the Mercer County United Way through both good and bad times. He explored, developed and captivated new funding streams, and has helped fund, develop and secure new programs that make a true difference to those in need.”

Micsky instituted the Mercer County United Way community impact model, helping to foster the Women’s Leadership Initiative, and was instrumental in the merger between Northern Mercer County and Mercer County chapters.

His greatest legacy, Gathers suggested, may be the creation of the Success by 6, six-week summer program for prekindergarten children. This award-winning program, started in 2004, has been copied and implemented by United Ways throughout the United States.

“On behalf of the Mercer County United Way board, we extend our sincere appreciation to Jim for his dedication to our community and thank him for a job well done,” Gathers said. “The board definitely faces a tall task before it in searching for a man or woman to take the place of such a dedicated individual.”

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