A change in leadership at the United Way Thompson Nicola Cariboo in Kamloops.

Danalee Baker has mutually parted ways with the organization, the Board of Directors announced in a statement today.

“Danalee has gone above and beyond to improve the lives of people in our region and has taken United Way TNC through an important transition, for which we are very thankful,” said Board Chair Hugh MacInnes, noting that Baker helped identify several new opportunities for the United Way.

“We have full confidence in her future success and wish her great joy for her future. Together we look forward to United Way’s next steps, led by the capable and passionate team that will continue her great work.”

Baker joined United Way’s Community Impact department in 2008. She was named Executive Director of the United Way TNC in 2015.

“The past 11.5 years have been an absolute honour. I could fill a football field with all the memories and people than have made it all so incredible. Community building is my life’s work, and it always will be,” Baker said on Facebook. “Never have I had a job where I woke up and ran to it with such joy and energy.”

“Community will always be in the centre of my heart and I shall never stop championing it and striving to make it even better.”

Katie Neustaeter, who is the Marketing and Communications Director with the United Way, will take over in the interim until a permanent Executive Director is found.

Neustater will join the NL Morning News at 8:40 a.m. on Friday, March 6.