United Way of the Illinois Valley is comprised of an Executive and Board of Directors whose main goal is to help raise awareness of United Way in our communities.
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Meet Our Executive Board of Directors

Title: Associate Advisor
Spencer has grown up in the Illinois Valley, attending LaSalle-Peru Township High School then Illinois Valley Community College. After graduating from Northern Illinois University in 2012, she worked in Naperville for a public accounting firm. Spencer has always loved the Illinois Valley and returned to working in the local area in 2016. She is passionate about helping those in the community, both professionally and personally. Outside of work, you can find her on a golf course or shopping at a local boutique.

Title: Business Development Manager
Melyssa was born and raised in the Illinois Valley. After 10 years away from the community, she moved back to join her family's businesses as their third generation of leadership. Melyssa is a first time Mom and enjoying spending extra time with her husband and son. In her free time, she loves to travel, cook, play tennis and spoil her dog, Miya. Melyssa loves being a part of the United Way community and seeing the direct positive impact UW has on the Illinois Valley.

Title: Director of Finance
Justin enjoys spending free time with family and friends. He lives and works in the City of Peru. His favorite part about the Illinois Valley and the United Way is being able to work with the people in the community

Title: Loan Officer
Laura was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. After graduating college in Argentina, she moved to the United States and has been in the Illinois Valley since 2006. Laura spends her spare time with her husband, two daughters and two dogs. Laura is very involved in volunteering in the community and being part of the United Way is one of her favorite ways to give back.

TItle: VP- Loan Officer
Neal was born and raised in the Illinois Valley and currently lives in Peru. He believes there is no better place to reside and raise a family. His favorite part about the Illinois Valley is enjoying the numerous restaurants and annual events hosted within each of the towns. Outside of that Neal spends most of his free time enjoying the outdoors.

Title: Director of Business Development
Kyle lives in Peru and has been involved with the United Way of Illinois Valley for 6 years; previously serving as Treasurer. After college, he moved to Massachusetts to work in the east coast W.H. Maze Co. sales office, but after 4 years was eager to get home to friends and family. When not working or volunteering, Kyle enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors – especially with his hobby beehives.

Title: Assistant Vice President
John lives in Peru Illinois with his wife, Angela, and four children (Geno, Luca, Isla, and Aria). John is proud to be the current President of the Board of Directors for United Way of the Illinois Valley. He would like to thank the Illinois Valley for their past, present and future support of United Way. Give - Advocate - Volunteer

Julie Sloan
Executive Director of United Way of the Illinois Valley
When Julie is not seen running around at United Way events, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Julie enjoys exercising, gardening, and reading. Her favorite part about the Illinois Valley is the people because everyone is extremely friendly and always willing to help or care for others.
Julie would like to thank all who continue to support the United Way of the Illinois Valley during these unusual times. We know life is a bit different and perhaps strange right now, but we are here to help and offer assistance when needed in the community. We know that it is because of our community, made of wonderful people and businesses, that we continue to succeed. We are here to share our success and mission with all of you. Please feel free to reach out to Julie should you ever need help.
To those who continue to support United Way – THANK YOU!
United Way Board Members
Bradley Bianchi, Joe Goskusky, Betha Ghighi, Bill Zens, Bailee Wallace, Cassie Blair, Jessica Newcomer, Kim Blaydes
We are always looking for energetic and passionate United Way Board Members, please reach out to us for more information!