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United Way of Odessa

Founded in 1951, the United Way of Odessa mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to advance the common good.

The basic concept of the United Way is service. 

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We fight for the Health, Education and Self-Sufficiency of every Ector County resident by funding local programs ranging in services from counseling and family training to early education development with state approved curriculum to the observement and support of our homeless and elderly community, allowing them to remain irrepressible and in their home.

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The United Way of Odessa supports programs in ten counties and forty three zip codes. Through the work of 19 funded programs, we ensure that individual lives and entire neighborhoods are being transformed and on the road to reaching their greatest potential. We are committed to creating lasting, positive change throughout our community. 

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Each year, countless of United Way of Odessa volunteers, consisting of Board of Directors, students, and community leaders, work to address critical service needs in Ector County (identified by community surveys) by reviewing and recommending funding proposals for community service programs aligning with the United Way of Odessa's community investment focus points. Through the Community Impact Fund, United Way of Odessa provides financial and community outreach support for projects vital to Ector County.

 

Additionally, we work with agencies to identify overlapping areas of need and potential collaboration between agencies to eliminate duplication of services and encourage unity of direction and solutions. These agencies are also provided with Venture Grant opportunities, critical support, guidance, new donor and support opportunities and in-kind resources.

Meet the Team!

Meet the passionate individuals who drive our mission forward.

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Christina Escobar

Executive Director

Christina is a visionary leader with a deep commitment to community empowerment and social change. Her strategic guidance and unwavering dedication inspire our team to achieve greater heights in our mission.

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Edny Gonzalez

Finance & Accounting Facilitator

Edny's background in finance and accounting, combined with her innovative strategies and exceptional leadership, ensures the effective delivery of essential services to individuals in need of assistance.

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Cristal Moreno

Lead Campaign Associate

Cristal brings extensive experience in campaign development and implementation. Her innovative approach and strong leadership ensure the effective delivery of essential services to those in need.

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Ryan Richards

Campaign Associate 

Ryan is committed to boosting our message and spreading the impact of our organization. With a background in accounting and customer service, she brings a unique blend of analytical skills and empathy to the team. 

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Katie Gambrel

Community Impact Director

Katie is passionate about fostering meaningful connections and mobilizing resources for community development. Her collaborative efforts strengthen our partnerships and expand our impact.

Board of Directors

Executive Board

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President

Crystale Castillo

JSA Architects

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President Elect

Julia Tarin

First Basin Credit Union

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 Past President 

Stephanie Cavazos

ATMOS Energy

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 Secretary

Carol Cates

Odessa Regional Medical Center

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Treasurer  

Ethan Baeza

Cardinal Financial

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 Community Impact Chair

Jonathan Brisco

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Campaign Chair

Kristi Clemmer

Odessa College

 

Campaign Co Chair

Corporal Steve LeSueur

Odessa Police Department 

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Lifetime Member

Stephanie Latimer

Sivalls, Inc.

 


Board of Directors


Mike Adkins

Ector County Independent School District

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Albert Anchondo

Sewell

 

Ethan Baeza

Cardinal Financial

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Bernadette Barragan

syGlass

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Jonathan Brisco

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Tim Brower

Ector County Independent School District

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Guadalupe Castaneda

Saulsbury

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Stephanie Cavazos 

ATMOS Energy 

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Carol Cates

Odessa Regional Medical Center​

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Cruz Castillo

JSA Architects

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Crystale Castillo

JSA Architects

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Kristi Clemmer

Odessa College​

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Miranda Crow

Atkins, Hollmann, Jones, Peacock, Lewis & Lyon

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Carla Hartwig

Odessa Chamber of Commerce

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Chris Jerez

Halliburton

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Stephanie Latimer

Sivalls, Inc.

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Corporal Steve LeSueur

Odessa Police Department

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Elma Reyes

Odessa College

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David Sanchez

City Bank

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Julia Tarin

First Basin Credit Union

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Kellie Wilks

Ector County Independent School District

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