For almost 20 years — with 10 as executive director, Deb Tederous was part of the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County organization that works to better and strengthen our community. Tederous took over as the organization’s leader in 2008, after talks to merge the two county United Ways into one broke down due to a lack of commitment from the south county.

She was a shining star for the organization ever since. “The United Way of Northern Chautauqua County owes Deb our most sincere appreciation,” said Kyle Leikam, United Way of Northern Chautauqua County board president. “She has been a constant advocate for our community, the people and programs we serve, and the organization. The board looks forward to carrying on her legacy, as well as continuing to find new ways to impact and influence our community.”

It was not easy.

Northern Chautauqua County has had to deal with plenty of business closings and job losses in the last decade. One of the largest contributors to the annual campaign was Carriage House, formerly Red Wing. At times, more than 20 percent of the funds invested in community non-profits and charities came from that organization. When it closed, we lost not only key community members, but a true giving spirit.

Since 1999, the organization has reinvested more than $4 million into major initiatives that include Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels, the Boys and Girls Club, Red Cross, and many other vital community partners.

For that time, Tederous was there — working behind the scenes and on the front line. What an accomplishment.