United Way of Erie County is pleased to announce the hiring of Sally Opferbeck as Vice President of Finance & Administration. In her new role, Sally will be responsible for all accounting, finance and treasury functions as well as for developing and maintaining the financial infrastructure and systems needed to safeguard the organization’s financial assets. She will be the senior financial position for the organization.
Born in Baghdad, Iraq, Sally immigrated to Erie in 2009. Sally lived in Jordan for 17 years before coming to the United States. She received her high school diploma from Villa Maria Academy and holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Penn State Behrend. Most recently, Sally was the Director of Finance & Administration at United Way of Southern Chautauqua County and previously was a Financial Reporting Specialist with Northwest Bank.
“I am very excited to continue to be part of a team that supports diversity and quality of living for all. To be part of the United Way is to be part of the community. I am very excited to see what the future holds for me in my new role and the difference we will make as a team for our community," said Sally.
In additional news, Julie Chacona has been promoted to Chief Development Officer after joining the team in 2020 as Director of Major Gifts. An Erie native, Julie has held previous positions at Saint Vincent Health Center and Edinboro University. Julie has also served on many community boards.
In her expanded role, Julie shares responsibility and works as a partner with the President in stewarding key philanthropic relationships, overseeing fundraising activities, and developing and implementing strategies that drive investment from individuals, corporations and foundations.
"Impact philanthropy starts with a social impact goal which in our case is breaking down barriers to poverty. I believe it takes everyone in our community to invest in all children so together we may help open doors to endless opportunities and drive positive social change,” said Julie.