(Greensburg, IN) – The Decatur County United Fund (DCUF) has announced that Joane Cunningham is retiring as Executive Director after 18 years of leading the organization.
Cunningham’s retirement is effective July 1.
She is credited with advancing the united fund’s mission of building hope, health and stability for the community while fostering collaborative partnerships and creating meaningful impact across Decatur County.
“Joane has been a cornerstone of DCUF’s success,” said Sally Cuskaden, DCUF Board Chair. “Her vision and commitment have left an enduring legacy, and we are deeply grateful for her exceptional service.”
During her tenure, Cunningham raised more than $9 million to support local nonprofits, and mobilized hundreds of volunteers.
DCUF says she played a key role in expanding programs focused on early education, youth development, family stability, and essential community services.
Cunningham also served on several advisory boards guiding local grant investments, advanced STEM learning through DCUF’s partnership with Camp Invention, and managed the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library database supporting early childhood literacy.
DCUF has launched a search for a new executive director.
The agency says the ideal candidate:
- Serves as a poised and credible public representative, communicating clearly and professionally while listening with intention.
- Cultivates authentic, strategic relationships and effectively convenes partners around shared objectives.
- Demonstrates sound judgment, discretion, and consistent ethical leadership.
- Is mission driven and community focused, committed to achieving measurable, meaningful impact.
- Balances high level strategic vision with hands on operational leadership.
- Possesses a proven record of securing philanthropic support, stewarding donor relationships, and articulating organizational results.
- Leads collaboratively, fostering a supportive and high-performing culture for staff and volunteers.
- Excels in dynamic environments and responds thoughtfully to evolving community needs.
- Understands the visibility and responsibility of public leadership, maintaining accountability to the Board, partners, and the community.
The position will be posted publicly in the coming weeks, with the new Executive Director expected to be named later this year.
“We are excited about the future and confident that the next Executive Director will continue Joane’s legacy of excellence,” Cuskaden added. “We invite community members and partners to share recommendations for strong candidates who will view this role not just as a job, but as a commitment to championing Decatur County United Fund’s mission and strengthening the community it serves.”
