Amanda Patterson named Interim Executive Director
Staff Reports
GRAHAM AND GREENLEE COUNTIES – The United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties announced on Jan. 19, 2026, that Executive Director Denise Benton has retired after nearly four years of dedicated service. In a heartfelt letter to supporters, Board President Laura Dorrell expressed both sadness at Benton’s departure and deep gratitude for her contributions to the organization.
Benton, who assumed the role of Executive Director in May 2022 after initially joining as Grant Manager in February 2022, brought significant energy, vision, and commitment to the nonprofit. Originally from the Chicago area and raised in Willcox, Arizona, she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Northern Arizona University. Following a 21-year career with the federal government, from which she retired in November 2021, Benton transitioned into community service with the United Way.
Under her leadership, the organization—serving the rural communities of Graham and Greenlee Counties in eastern Arizona since 1978—achieved several key milestones. These included forging strong partnerships with local leaders, stakeholders, and nonprofit organizations across both counties; expanding the United Way’s presence and impact in Greenlee County; enhancing transparency and outreach to communities and donors about funded initiatives; strengthening procedures and guidelines for the grant-making process; refining and expanding the grant application to make it more transparent and more accessible; launching two new employee giving programs with Graham County and the Town of Thatcher; and successfully relocating the organization’s office to serve its mission better.
The United Way focuses on advancing education, health, and financial stability—the foundational elements for a high quality of life in the region. It distributes grants to local nonprofits, educational institutions, and other organizations, supported by donations from major partners such as Freeport-McMoRan and its employees, the City of Safford, the Town of Thatcher, Graham County, and individual contributors. In recent years, the organization has awarded substantial funding, including millions in grants for education, health services, economic support, and community initiatives such as scholarships, food pantries, teacher support, and holiday assistance.
To ensure a smooth leadership transition, the Board of Directors has appointed Amanda Patterson as Interim Executive Director. Patterson, a longtime Graham County resident who previously served as Grant Manager, will step into the role immediately. Benton will remain part-time during the transition period to provide continuity, offer guidance, support Patterson and the Board, and assist with ongoing projects behind the scenes as needed.
In her letter advising of Benton’s retirement, Laura Dorrell, President, Board of Directors, United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties, emphasized the Board’s commitment to a seamless handover and reiterated appreciation for Benton’s heartfelt dedication. “We are incredibly grateful to Denise for the energy, vision, and heart that she dedicated to our organization, and we wish her the absolute best in her future endeavors,” Dorrell wrote.
The United Way of Graham and Greenlee Counties, headquartered in Safford, Arizona, continues its work uniting community generosity to address local needs and build stronger, more resilient communities in this rural part of the state. For more information on the organization, its grant opportunities, or ways to get involved, visit grahamgreenleeunited.org.
