ELKIN, N.C. — The Yadkin Valley United Fund is pleased to announce the appointment of Rebekah Taylor as its new Executive Director, effective June 1, 2025. Taylor will succeed David Steelman, who will retire June 30 after a decade of dedicated leadership.
As a local small business owner of Enchantment Ever After, Taylor brings leadership and community experience to the role, and the board is confident she will continue the organization’s mission of supporting local agencies that serve the needs of the Yadkin Valley community.
Mike Bovender, immediate past president, who lead the board through the hiring and selection process, shared his enthusiasm for the leadership transition: “We are thrilled to welcome Rebekah Taylor into the executive director role. Her passion for community service and collaborative leadership style will be a great asset as we continue to grow and strengthen our support for local nonprofits.”
“I am both honored and excited to join this extraordinary organization which bridges resources and need. Programs such as this exist to strengthen our local community. One of my goals is to foster awareness and inspiration for our continued growth, prosperity and legacy,” said Taylor.
“On behalf of the board of directors, I want to sincerely thank David Steelman for his 10 years of faithful service to our organization, our partner nonprofits, and the communities we support,” said Wendy Wood, newly elected Board president. “We also extend our gratitude to Mike for his leadership over the past year and for guiding the board through a thoughtful and successful hiring process for our next executive director.”
“It’s been a true honor to serve as executive director of the Yadkin Valley United Fund for the past 10 years,” said Steelman. “Together with a dedicated board and generous community supporters, we’ve been able to make a meaningful difference in the lives of countless individuals and families. I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished and confident that the organization is in good hands moving forward.”
Steelman will not be a stranger in the area though as he will continue his other role as president of the Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce.
In addition to welcoming Taylor, the Yadkin Valley United Fund also announced its newly elected board officers for the 2025-2026 campaign year:
- Wendy Wood, President
- Justin Roberts, President Elect
- Aaron Misenheimer, Vice President
- Missy Shore, Treasurer
- Mike Bovender, Immediate Past President
The organization welcomes three newly elected board members: Tom Flippin, Anthony Sebastian, and Zach Lankford, who begin their three-year terms June 1, 2025.
The Yadkin Valley United Fund continues its commitment to raising and distributing funds to support vital programs and services across the region. For the 2024-25 financial year, it raised over $200,000 and provided funding to 22 nonprofit agencies in the Yadkin Valley and awarded scholarships to three local high school seniors. For more information on the United Fund and to support its efforts, visit our donate page.