COEUR d’ALENE — United Way of North Idaho welcomed Erica Wrublik as the organization’s new executive director earlier this week.

"I’m excited to get to work and to tell the story of United Way, an organization that’s been working diligently behind the scenes to propel North Idahoans for nearly 70 years," Wrublik said Friday.

UWNI Board President Patt Richesin shares in her enthusiasm.

"Erica is the right person at the right time for us,” Richesin said. “With our emphasis on resilience and stability in pursuit of a bright future for our communities, and her experience, dedication, and welcoming presence, we know we have a winning combination."

The annual salary listed for the executive director position is $95,000 to $105,000.

Former executive director Rachel Peterson departed from UWNI in January after one year in the role. She now serves as Heritage Health's director of People and Community Advancement.

Wrublik brings more than 12 years of nonprofit and leadership experience, including senior leadership roles with the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry. 

According to a Feb. 20 press release, her work with the chamber included stewarding high-level donor relationships, planning large-scale fundraising events, supporting board governance, and overseeing operational and financial reporting.

Wrublik has seen similar success with community relations and partnership development in North Idaho.

Her prior role was in marketing and community outreach at Kootenai Health, “where she (was) responsible for cultivating meaningful relationships, coordinating outreach efforts, and aligning community engagement with mission-critical goals across North Idaho and Eastern Washington,” according to the press release. Wrublik worked at Kootenai Health for about a year.

“Her understanding of North Idaho’s nonprofit, healthcare, business, and civic landscapes positions her to lead UWNI with insight, collaboration, and strategic focus,” the release read.

The nonprofit organization works to address the region’s most pressing issues through strategic partnerships, community-led initiatives, and investments in programs serving ALICE (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) households.

"United Way has been an on-ramp for our families, friends, and neighbors nationwide for nearly 140 years — 70 of those in North Idaho," Wrublik said, "providing the necessary momentum needed to reach the superhighway of independently thriving, and ultimately benefitting not only the individuals affected, but also the economies they live, work, and recreate in."