Southwest Florida nonprofit names CEO as $10.4M campaign begins

United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades is making two interim executives permanent hires, bringing in a new CEO and COO as the Fort Myers nonprofit embarks on a $10.4 million fundraising campaign ahead of its 70th anniversary. 

Courtesy image

Hannah Pelle, who has served as interim president and CEO since May, has been appointed to the position on an official non-interim bases, the organization announced Friday. At the same time, interim COO Madison Mitchell has also been hired to continue in her role on a non-interim basis. 

Pelle joined United Way in 2012 as director of allocations and community planning, rising to COO before being asked to step in as interim CEO and president after Jeannine Joy stepped down in May 2026 after 31 years with the nonprofit. 

Pelle’s promotion puts a veteran of United Way’s fundraising, school partnerships and hurricane recovery work at the helm, the announcement says. 

“Hannah has been a valued member of the leadership team for many years,” board chair Kevin Karnes says in the release. “Having her assume the role as CEO and president provides continuity while bringing proven leadership, a vast amount of institutional knowledge and a strong commitment to our community. The board is confident Hannah will guide United Way into its next chapter of service and impact.”

Pelle helped develop United Way’s Community Partnership Schools program and launch its Gifts in Kind and School Resource Center. The latter has brought in approximately $50 million in donated goods since Hurricane Ian, according to the release.

The school initiative connects education with services that address obstacles such as hunger and limited access to healthcare, according to the nonprofit’s website. United Way’s partners include the School District of Lee County, Florida Gulf Coast University and Lee Health. The program operates at Franklin Park Elementary, Fort Myers Middle Academy and Colonial Elementary.

Courtesy image

Pelle also helped the organization meet its 2026 annual campaign goal and launch its new $10.4 million drive, which will support more than 260 community programs, the release says.

Mitchell also brings more than a decade of experience with the nonprofit to the COO position, which she inherits from Pelle. In her time with the nonprofit, Mitchell has been responsible for distributing funds and overseeing programs including the Resiliency Hubs, ReUnite, WeCare, Beesley’s Paw Prints, Mission United and United Way 211, the release says.

Mitchell also led volunteer and donation efforts in partnership with the Lee County government following Hurricane Ian, according to the release.

Founded in 1957, United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades says it has raised and distributed more than $283 million for local human services programs.Its network supports services for children, families, older adults and people with disabilities, the release says.

“Madison's experience, passion for our mission and her commitment to serving our community have made her an invaluable asset to United Way,” Karnes says in the release.