Why one Birmingham woman believes this local program is the best way to grow as a leader—apply now

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Birmingham is full of people who step outside of their daily duties to help others. One example is Cleo Crawford. She’s a committed employee at Regions Bank, but also a beloved volunteer at United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA).

Cleo has served through dozens of outlets within UWCA, one being the Loaned Executive program, which she feels is the best way to grow in your leadership skills, meet new people and learn more about Central Alabama organizations.

We sat down with Cleo to hear about her experience as a Loaned Executive and why she thinks you should apply to be one, too.

Meet Cleo Crawford

Birmingham native Cleo Crawford is Regions Bank’s Human Resources Operations Specialist, and she has dedicated her life to serving UWCA—in more ways than one.

Cleo never missed a chance to give during Regions Bank’s annual employee campaign, and when volunteer opportunities came up through work, she eagerly signed up.

When others urged Cleo to be more active in UWCA, she decided to take her involvement to another level.

Since her introduction to UWCA, Cleo:

• Joined Women United
• Went through the Loaned Executive program as a Fall Loaned Executive + Pacesetter Loaned Executive
• Gave back her time on the Visiting Allocation Team
• Served as the co-chair of the J. Mason Davis Leadership Society
• Serves on the society’s Steering Committee

“The Loaned Executive program opened my eyes to how much UWCA does for the Birmingham metro area and surrounding counties.

Now, I’ve spent so much time at United Way that it feels like home.”

Cleo Crawford, Human Resources Operations Specialist, Regions Bank

While each avenue of UWCA has impacted her life differently, Cleo particularly praises of the Loaned Executive program.

“Being a Loaned Executive will stretch you.

You’re going to meet people, and you’re going to see why there is a need and see how to fulfill that need. You’re going to see that each community needs an organization like the United Way.”

Cleo Crawford, Human Resources Operations Specialist, Regions Bank

What are Loaned Executives?

So, what exactly is a Loaned Executive?

Every year, 30 or so people of different ages, backgrounds and careers come together to help raise tens of millions for the incredible work UWCA does.

During the 13-week program, you collaborate with top management at companies and organizations throughout Central Alabama to develop internal campaigns on behalf of UWCA.

What Loaned Executives do:

• Manage a portfolio of corporate accounts
• Support companies in running UWCA campaigns with employees
• Build relationships with company campaign coordinators, supporting them + their campaign committees
• Fulfill speaking engagements with companies, share their UWCA story to employee groups
• Support campaign activities like volunteer projects, campaign kickoff events, employee rallies + coordinate tours of UWCA’s programs
• Solicit new corporate gifts + create new business relationships for UWCA
• Support other Loaned Executives in managing campaign events + reaching fundraising goals

Become a Loaned Executive for United Way of Central Alabama

Interested in expanding your network and leadership skills all while helping out local companies and organizations?

Here’s what you need to know before applying to be a Loaned Executive:

• When: August 25-November 21
• Who: Recent college grads, retirees, consultants or people interested in making a professional transition.
• Why: Community members raise + decide where to allocate the funds.
• How it works: Some local companies loan employees of their own while others provide funds to compensate individuals who apply to UWCA to participate.
• Requirements: Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation + proof of automobile insurance.
• Apply by August 8: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

“United Way is truly the wheel that keeps the surrounding counties turning. Without them, I would hate to see where we would be.”

Cleo Crawford, Human Resources Operations Specialist, Regions Bank

Cleo represents the leadership that makes Birmingham’s philanthropic ecosystem so strong.

Take it from Cleo: The Loaned Executive program benefits you and Central Alabama communities. Apply today. 

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