Heart of Maine United Way Announces Matt Donahue as President & CEO
Heart of Maine United Way is pleased to announce the appointment of Matt Donahue as the organization’s next President & Chief Executive Officer, following a comprehensive national search.
Donahue, who has been serving as Vice President & Chief Impact Officer at Heart of Maine United Way, was selected after a competitive search that evaluated both internal and external candidates. His appointment reflects the organization’s commitment to strong leadership, community collaboration, and continued momentum toward its strategic goals.
Throughout his tenure with Heart of Maine United Way, Donahue has played a key role in advancing the organization’s mission and expanding its impact across the region. He was instrumental in bringing to life The COMMUNITY: Maine’s Nonprofit Hub, serving as a catalyst for the initiative from its earliest stages and leading the effort from concept through development. Today, the Hub stands as a first-of-its-kind collaborative space in Maine designed to strengthen nonprofit capacity, foster innovation, and support organizations that serve communities across the state.
Donahue has also helped create and expand Heart of Maine United Way’s Bundle program, growing the initiative to serve families in four counties while strengthening partnerships that connect parents and caregivers with early childhood resources and support. In addition to leading major community initiatives, Donahue has played a key role in strengthening partnerships with businesses, donors, and community leaders and helping guide the organization’s strategic growth.
“Matt has demonstrated a deep commitment to our mission and a remarkable ability to bring people together around bold ideas,” said Jessamine Pottle, Chair of the Board of Directors and Vice President, Marketing Director at Haley Ward. “His leadership in launching The COMMUNITY: Maine’s Nonprofit Hub and expanding key programs like Bundle shows both his vision and his ability to turn that vision into real impact. Throughout the search process, it was clear that Matt also brings the strategic leadership and strong community relationships needed to guide Heart of Maine United Way into its next chapter.”
Donahue expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the role.
“It is an incredible honor to step into this role and continue the work of Heart of Maine United Way,” said Donahue. “This organization brings together passionate people, generous donors, and dedicated nonprofits to strengthen communities. I’m excited to build on the strong foundation already in place and continue working alongside our staff, board, and community partners to create lasting change across the region.”
The organization also extended special recognition to Wendy Durrah, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors and Senior Vice President and Chief of Staff at Bangor Savings Bank, for her leadership and dedication throughout the hiring process.
“We are deeply grateful to Wendy for her commitment to leading a thorough and thoughtful hiring committee process,” said Pottle. “Her leadership helped ensure a transparent search and a strong outcome for the future of the organization.”
Donahue succeeds Shirar Patterson, who recently concluded her 13-year tenure with the organization, including nine years as President and CEO.
Heart of Maine United Way serves six counties across the region and works to advance community impact through strategic partnerships, collaborative initiatives, and investments focused on basic needs, early childhood development, substance use disorder, and nonprofit capacity building.
