United Way of Kern County

“United Way is one of the most important and largest nonprofit organizations in the world, the noble work that has been done over the last century has been amazing, and I couldn’t be more honored and humbled to have been chosen to lead our local organization and represent the County of Kern at a state, nation and worldwide level. The opportunity ahead for United Way of Kern County is vast, but to seize it, we must focus clearly and continue to transform. A big part of my job is to bring funding and effective programs for our communities, but also to invest in my team and develop community leaders that will passionately own the brand and believe in the vision and mission of Living United.” – Mari Perez-Dowling

Mari first joined our United Way of Kern County family on October 17, 2017 as Director of Marketing and Development. She was then promoted to Interim President & CEO in April of 2018, and as of November 20, 2018 she became the permanent President and CEO of the organization.

Mari is a bilingual professional who has specialized in community education and program development within multicultural communities. Her experience also includes public and community relations, strategic planning, event planning, community engagement, volunteer engagement and media communications. She’s a creative thinker with a positive attitude, recognized for her strong leadership, and her abilities to engage different community-based organizations towards common projects promoting collaboration.

Mari’s relevant qualifications include her education background with a B.A. in Spanish Language & Literature, Teaching Credential in Single Subject/ BCLAD – Foreign Language – Spanish, M.A. in Multicultural Studies; Environmental Journalism Fellowship and News Production Fellowship. Her responsibilities include leading the organization in all its efforts to fundraise and execute programs that benefit the families and individuals of our Kern County communities