Greenwood Celebrates the Legacy of a Transformative Leader
In bustling Greenwood, South Carolina, the pace of change is as dynamic as the ever-shifting weather. Today, residents are experiencing a sun and cloud mix with temperatures climbing to a balmy 79°F, ideal for those who love the warmth. As the day transitions into evening, the skies will start out mostly cloudy but will clear up somewhat by midnight, offering a cooler, comfortable night with lows around 57°F.
Beneath the vibrant hues of the fall skies, a different kind of transformation is being felt by the communities of Greenwood, McCormick, and Saluda counties – one orchestrated inside the UC3 Resource Connection Hub, a heartening beacon of hope and resources.
A New Chapter Unfolds
At the helm of this transformation has been a leader whose impact resonates beyond policy papers and data sheets. Marisel Losa, the dedicated president and CEO of the United Way of the Lakelands, is preparing to turn the page on her remarkable career. Reflecting on her impending retirement, Losa shares, “I’ve reached the end of my career trajectory. The organization is thriving more than ever.” Her sentiments echo in the warmth of the community she’s helped to shape over her years at the forefront.
Driving Change with Data and Determination
Losa’s leadership began in 2018 when she brought with her a treasure trove of experience from her work in Miami. At the heart of her mission in Greenwood was shifting the United Way’s approach from a traditional community chest model to a forward-thinking collective impact model. This shift has not only made waves locally but positioned Greenwood as a pioneering community for transformation on a larger scale.
Losa’s introduction of the Lakelands Counts data platform represented a cornerstone for change, providing foundational data to identify key areas for improvement and foster collaboration among community agencies. “Without baseline data, you can’t measure how effective you are. It requires the community to look at itself and figure out key areas for change,” Losa explains with a seasoned understanding of community dynamics.
Building Bridges Through Collective Impact
The transformation was not without its challenges. The transition to a collective impact model, which brings people and organizations together for systemic change, met with some pushback. Losa’s persistence and vision, however, have carved a path that others now follow. Her work in establishing the Greenwood Counts Community Consortium reflects her commitment to community-wide success.
Losa’s Crowning Achievement
The creation of the UC3 Resource Connection Hub in 2023 stands as a testament to Losa’s enduring legacy. This one-stop shop for community services aids residents in navigating the labyrinth of nonprofit and government offerings, addressing any issues they bring. It’s a facility that goes beyond mere services; it symbolizes the sense of community trust and collaboration that Losa championed during her tenure.
Looking ahead, Losa is confident in leaving her legacy to capable hands, stressing the importance of continued community collaboration. As her December 30 retirement date approaches, Losa remains grateful for the opportunity to have transformed the landscape for nonprofit work in Greenwood. Her story from Miami to the Lakelands is one that inspires a future of possibilities, much as the sun that peeks through the autumn clouds inspires the day.
For those interested in sharing news tips or story ideas, a friendly invitation is extended to contribute to the ongoing story of this vibrant community.
