Merger
Press Release & FAQ’S
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What exactly is happening?
The United Way of Mason County and the United Way of Manistee County have merged into a single organization.
What was the reason for this merger?
To reduce expenses and increase operational efficiencies, while expanding capacity to mobilize our respective communities into action so that all can thrive. We believe this can be achieved through creating partnerships, funding local programs and initiatives, and/or directly providing programs and services.
How long was this merger in the works?
The two organizations formed a shared services partnership in August 2024 to provide accounting and administrative services. In November 2024, the members of the Executive Committee from each organization began meeting to explore the possibility of a merger.
When did this collaboration go into effect?
This collaboration was official as of March 2nd, 2026
Are there job losses as a result of the merger?
No, all staff will continue serving their counties.
What happens to the money raised in Mason and Manistee Counties?
All funds raised in Mason County will stay in Mason County, and all funds raised in Manistee County will remain in Manistee County.
Will each county still have a physical presence?
Yes, our locations in each county will remain.
What happened to each county’s board of directors?
To ensure geographic representation, the new board will include members from the Mason and Manistee county boards.
Are any partnerships or programs impacted?
No. This plan will reduce costs, increase operational efficiency, and have a positive impact on Mason and Manistee counties. Our long-term goal is to explore community partnership opportunities that achieve positive outcomes in addressing complex social issues and create lasting change.
Merger Finalized: United Way of the West Shore Formed to Serve Mason and Manistee Counties
LUDINGTON & MANISTEE, MI — The merger between United Way of Mason County and United Way of Manistee County is now final, creating a new regional organization: United Way of the West Shore.
The newly combined entity strengthens services across both counties while maintaining local programming, fundraising, and decision-making. Leaders say the merger will reduce expenses, increase operational efficiencies, and expand the organization’s capacity to mobilize communities so that all can thrive. Under the new structure, United Way of Mason County Executive Director Lynne Russell will lead United Way of the West Shore.
“This is about building something stronger, together,” said Russell, “Our partnerships remain intact, our programs remain in place, and funds raised locally will continue to support local residents. What changes is our capacity — we now have greater opportunity to collaborate, innovate, and expand our impact across the two-county area.”
A newly formed governing board includes members from both counties to ensure geographic representation and community voice. No staff positions were eliminated as part of the merger, and physical locations in both counties will remain open.
The merger builds upon a shared services partnership launched in August 2024, when Mason County began providing accounting and administrative support to Manistee County. Formal merger discussions began in November 2024, with both boards concluding that a unified organization would better position the region for long-term, positive impact.
Programmatically, each county will maintain a focused approach based on local needs.
· Mason County will continue prioritizing youth development and financial security initiatives, as well as community organizing activities intended to strengthen Mason County.
· Manistee County will continue prioritizing efforts to address food insecurity while identifying and responding to other emerging and unmet community needs.
Leaders emphasize that existing partnerships and programs will remain fully intact. Rather than disrupting current efforts, the merger is designed to enhance collaboration, strengthen outcomes, and create lasting change throughout Mason and Manistee counties.