Olivia Neeley serves as Resource Development Director for United Way of Wilson County, where she builds partnerships, connects resources and advances initiatives that create lasting solutions to poverty.
She works alongside nonprofit organizations, schools, businesses and community leaders to mobilize resources, foster collaboration and create more opportunities for local families to achieve long-term stability.
Before joining United Way, Olivia spent nearly two decades as an award-winning journalist covering education, local government, healthcare, the criminal justice system and issues affecting the community. During her journalism career, she earned more than 40 state journalism and public service awards, including the O. Henry Award from the North Carolina Associated Press, the Henry Weathers Freedom of Information Award and Public Notice Award from the North Carolina Press Association, and the North Carolina Media & Law Award from the North Carolina Bar Association.
A graduate of Appalachian State University, Olivia has called Wilson home for the past 15 years. She brings a storyteller's perspective to her work and is passionate about advancing United Way's mission by connecting people, resources and opportunities to create lasting change for individuals and families throughout the community.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, attending concerts, hiking, thrifting and gardening.