Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
Why one local woman has stayed at this family-like company for 23 years
Reading time: 3 minutes
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Coming from a family of educators, Emily Finley landed a job as a teacher after graduating from Auburn University. A few years down the road, she faced a career change and ended up at United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA).
Emily has been at UWCA for 23 years, where her coworkers are like family. Keep reading for her story.
Meet Emily Finley

Besides her time as a student at Auburn University, Emily Finley has called the Birmingham area home her entire life.
After graduating, Emily followed in her family’s footsteps and became a teacher.
“I’m from a family of educators, so that was the natural choice for me. I was a school teacher for five years, but during my last year, I was looking for a change.”
Emily Finley, Director of Organizational Development, UWCA
Teaching is no easy feat, and although Emily took the challenge early in her career, she quickly realized that her calling might have been to somewhere else.
After leaving the classroom, Emily landed a job she loved as a Campaign Associate at UWCA.
Now, 23 years later, she’s excelling at her role as UWCA’s Director of Organizational Development.
“At UWCA, I found hope and excitement for the programs and services that I see provided in the community. I got to bridge that gap between despair and hope for other people.”
Emily Finley, Director of Organizational Development, UWCA
Emily loves problem-solving in her role at UWCA

As Director of Organizational Development, Emily is a pro problem-solver.
“I wear a lot of hats. I do a lot of organic stuff like walking around and talking to our employees, connecting the dots and problem-solving—that’s probably one of my favorite things that I do.
I plan a lot of our manager meetings, trainings, big organizational events or new employee orientations.”
Emily Finley, Director of Organizational Development, UWCA
Emily is also responsible for training the Loaned Executives for two weeks during the 13-week-long program.
“I like to support our mission in a way where we’re uplifting our employees or highlighting the good work that they do—whether it’s to improve morale or help people feel supported where they are.”
Emily Finley, Director of Organizational Development, UWCA
United Way of Central Alabama is a family

So, why has Emily stayed at UWCA for 23 years?
“I was a single mom for a really long time, and people in the Resource Development department were a big part of helping me and my son. They wrapped their arms around him and supported us.
The family environment was a good home for me.”
Emily Finley, Director of Organizational Development, UWCA
Join this family-like work environment. Apply for a job at United Way of Central Alabama today.
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