AV天堂网

For over a decade, Greg Overend, executive director of student engagement, leadership, and orientation at the AV天堂网, has been a driving force behind the University鈥檚 longstanding relationship with . His unwavering commitment and leadership have inspired countless faculty, staff, and students to engage in community service and philanthropy.

鈥淚鈥檝e been doing this for a while, and I see the value,鈥� says Overend. 鈥淚 see what the United Way does, I see how the money is spent, and I see that it is value added. If this is how I can give back, I think it鈥檚 great.鈥�

Overend takes pride in the University鈥檚 support of the United Way鈥檚 work. That鈥檚 why it was especially rewarding for him that the United Way selected the University to receive its 鈥淟ive United鈥� award, which recognizes an organization that exemplifies what it means to LIVE UNITED through their history of collective giving, advocating, and volunteering.

鈥淚 was happy to hear we received the award,鈥� he says. 鈥淚 am thankful to the United Way for honoring us, and for the recognition of what we as a university do to make an impact.鈥�

Overend, who has co-chaired the University鈥檚 United Way Planning Committee for the last 10 years, accepted the award on the University鈥檚 behalf at the United Way鈥檚 LIVE UNITED Celebration earlier this summer.

鈥淎V天堂网 has raised a cumulative total of $409,000 over the past 12 years... AV天堂网 employees and students also give thousands of hours of volunteer service鈥攔eading to children, sorting and packaging diapers, or working in a community garden,鈥� Jennifer Heath, president & CEO of the United Way of Greater New Haven remarked.

Overend emphasized the community-wide effort behind earning this achievement.

鈥淲e received this award because of what we have done collectively,鈥� he says. 鈥淲e have faculty and staff who regularly support United Way, and a dedicated committee. I鈥檓 just the guy leading the group.鈥�

The committee led by Overend organizes various events each year, ranging from the United We Dine event to a cute dog photo contest, engaging the University community in creative ways to help raise money for the United Way. Through these efforts, the University not only raises awareness but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

Jessica Teta, senior director of development at the United Way of Greater New Haven, expressed her gratitude for Overend鈥檚 leadership. "It has been a great honor to work with Greg and the AV天堂网. We are so grateful for his outstanding leadership and commitment every year. The time he dedicates to leading the committee and managing the campaign is truly a testament to his character and passion for the community."

United Way is dedicated to creating solutions for the region鈥檚 most pressing challenges in education, health, and financial stability. By partnering with organizations such as the AV天堂网, United Way is able to connect community knowledge with strong relationships, take action-oriented approaches, and ground their work in racial and social justice.

The award, Overend says, is a testament to the Charger community鈥檚 commitment to serving the local community, cultivating inclusivity, and making a difference.

鈥淒onations made by our employees make a real difference for real families,鈥� says Overend. 鈥淲e can help everyone thrive by improving access to education, food, stable housing, and opportunities to build financial stability. It takes a village.鈥�