TWIN FALLS, ID – JANUARY 16, 2025 – The Board of Directors of United Way of South Central Idaho is pleased to announce that Kara J. Fort has been appointed as the organization's new President and CEO, effective immediately. Fort, who has been serving as Interim President and CEO, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the community to the role.
“We are thrilled to have Kara step into the permanent position of President and CEO,” Sarah Thompson, Board Chair of United Way of South Central Idaho, says. “Her leadership as Interim President has been exemplary, and her dedication to our mission is unwavering. We are confident that United Way will continue to make significant strides in improving lives and strengthening our community under her leadership.”
Fort brings extensive expertise to the organization from her consulting work with global tech corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. She has collaborated with Fortune 100 companies, obtained media exposure in The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, and co-produced documentaries for CNN, BBC and NHK, illustrating her ability to influence and motivate on a large scale. Her leadership capabilities scaled locally to spearhead the world’s largest leadership simulcast event, which achieved high long-term engagement and fundraising results for the Magic Valley.
Fort began her journey with United Way of South Central Idaho in 2023 as a marketing and strategy consultant. She later transitioned to the role of Chief of Staff and has most recently been serving as the Interim President and CEO. During her tenure, she has been instrumental in advancing key initiatives in South Central Idaho focused on early education, financial stability, youth opportunity and health – core areas that United Way is dedicated to improving at both the local and national levels.
“It’s an honor to be entrusted to serve as CEO. I’ve never been involved with a more generous community than that of Southern Idaho, and I am committed to working alongside our resilient and compassionate leaders and philanthropists to create lasting change,” Fort says.
Fort's appointment comes at an opportune time, as United Way of South Central Idaho is further evolving its programs and services to meet the community's changing needs. The organization is dedicated to mobilizing resources and forging partnerships that drive sustainable solutions for Southern Idaho.
“Kara's vision and strategic approach are exactly what we need as we embark on this next chapter,” states Thompson. “Her ability to connect with community members and stakeholders, coupled with her passion for service, makes her the ideal leader for United Way.”
Fort’s passions during her career have been focused on leadership training, domestic violence education, trauma recovery, and addressing food insecurity.
United Way of South Central Idaho serves 11 counties, including Blaine, Butte, Camas, Cassia, Custer, Elmore, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls and Jackpot, NV. For more information, visit unitedwayscid.org.
About United Way of South Central Idaho
United Way of South Central Idaho is dedicated to empowering the community by promoting holistic well-being for individuals and families. Through initiatives focused on education, financial stability, and health, United Way works to create lasting change that benefits generations. By mobilizing resources and forging partnerships, the organization addresses critical needs and drives sustainable solutions in the region.