Special to The Reporter

United Way of Marshall County today announced Erica Martin as its new Executive Director. 

Martin, a Guntersville native, brings to the role more than a decade of experience in social services and a demonstrated commitment to the Marshall County community.

Most recently, Martin served as Program Manager at Marshall County Arc, a day school for intellectually disabled adults, as well as Director of Missions and Outreach at Guntersville First Methodist Church. Previously, she worked as a social services caseworker for the Marshall County Department of Human Resources. 

Martin holds a Master of Social Work from the University of Kentucky and a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Auburn University.

Martin has a long history of involvement with United Way of Marshall County as a former Loaned Executive and an employee campaign manager. She is a graduate and former board member for the Marshall County Leadership Challenge. She currently serves on the Marshall County Christmas Coalition executive board.

“I am honored and excited to lead United Way of Marshall County,” said Martin. “I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, volunteers and community partners to advance our mission of improving lives and strengthening our community.”

Martin replaces Carrie Thomas, who had been with the organization for 13 years, and served as United Way’s Executive Director for almost 10 years. Thomas resigned to move with her family to Auburn, Ala.

“Erica will be an invaluable asset to United Way, our partner agencies and supporters,” Thomas said. 

“I love United Way and its mission, and it has been an absolute honor to serve in this role. I will always be grateful to this community for its generous support and thankful for the wonderful friendships and relationships I have made here during my tenure. 

With Erica’s experience and heart to serve others, I know she will lead United Way to even greater heights. I am confident that the agency and our partners are in good hands.”

Martin’s tenure began Aug. 18.