Maria Chavez Wilcox, O.C. United WayMaria Chavez...

Maria Chavez Wilcox, O.C. United Way

Maria Chavez Wilcox, 38, is the new president and chief executive of United Way of Orange County. She succeeds Merritt Johnson, who retired from the county’s largest charitable organization after 25 years of service. Shortly after graduating from Boston University, Wilcox was selected for a national internship with United Way and has been with the agency ever since, holding management positions with the program in several cities. The Lima, Peru, native spoke with Times correspondent Joyce Kelly about the challenges of her new position.

Q: During your 15 years with United Way, how did you prepare yourself to hold a top job?

A: I had increasingly responsible positions in four different organizations. I have either directly or indirectly managed every major division of United Way groups across the country, from fund-raising to marketing and communications, finance, and year-round agency relations. I have a proven track record.

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Q: What has been your greatest challenge since you joined United Way Orange County in January?

A: Trying to get to know the community and the leadership as quickly as possible. In addition, attempting to gain a thorough knowledge of all internal operations so that I can prioritize critical strategies.

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Q: What are your goals?

A: One is to increase resources. Two, to demonstrate measurable impact goals, based on our priorities and our funding priorities, such as family violence, prevention and treatment, child care and development, youth development, community health services and homelessness. Three is to maintain and increase financial efficiency, and four is to continue to do a better job of helping people at lower costs.

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Q: Orange County donations to the United Way dropped last year. The goal was to raise $19.7 million, but only $18 million came in. County residents give roughly half of what is typical in other metropolitan areas of similar size. Why do you think that is, and what strategies do you have to increase donations?

A: First, we need to do a better job communicating the impact that United Way is making. . . . Two, we need to secure visible campaign leadership, and three, we need to reposition United Way as more than just a fund-raiser but as an enabler in getting things done.

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Q: How is the money spent here?

A: Ninety-nine cents of every dollar stays in Orange County. Fund-raising and administrative costs are 18%, which is less than half the acceptable standard of 35% to 40% outlined by the National Charities Information Bureau. Eighty-two cents of every dollar raised goes directly to programs.