Meet the SSW Staff

Yvonne Orr: Chief Professional Officer

Yvonne joins the United Way team with nearly 20 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. She has diverse experience from roles with increasing Fundraising and Grant Writing/Management responsibilities at LaRabida Children’s Hospital and Mercy Housing Lakefront to working for the Chicago Police Department where she was responsible for all media relations for CAPS, served as the official spokesperson, speechwriter and managed crisis communication. Layering on top of this work, Yvonne provided fundraising consulting support across several non-profit organizations including many in the south-suburban area. Yvonne earned her Bachelors Degree in Political Science from Hampton University and a Masters Degree in Human Services Administration with a concentration in nonprofit management from Spertus College. An avid arts-enthusiast, Yvonne performs spoken word and participates in dance and community theater projects in her spare time. She’s excited to bring LIVE UNITED 2020 to fruition in collaboration with Southland agencies.

Jessica Plechaty: Fundraising Manager

E-mail Jessica! or 708.371.1328

Jessica recently graduated with her Masters in International Public Service with a concentration in non-profit management from DePaul University and currently works with the Southland region’s corporate and residential campaigns, as well as special events. Her past experience includes working and interning for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Heartland International and the Institute of International Education. She loves to travel and her passion for non-profit work stems from an international development voyage to South Africa. Through these travels Jessica has developed strategic plans on water sustainability, refugee services and grassroots mobilization while attending numerous conferences around the world, such as the Women as Global Leaders in Dubai, U.A.E. Jessica was born and raised in the Southland, and after receiving her undergraduate degree in International Studies and French from Miami University (Ohio), she is happy to be back in the Chicago area.

Kimberly Dean: Program Coordinator

E-mail Kimberly! or 708.371.1328

Kimberly is responsible for program allocations processes & reporting for all local income, education and health programs, including the Southland Human Services Leadership Council SSW Community Impact Steering Committee volunteer group management, and co-facilitating the SHSLC Executive Committee, and the larger council body. Kimberly has over 10 years social service experience, working with various agencies around Chicago. Since starting in 2010 Kimberly has represented the South region on several committees: Cultural Competency, Regional Standardization Group, and the Southland Human Services Leadership Council. Kimberly holds a Bachelors in Sociology from Roosevelt University, and she plans to begin classes in the spring with Walden University working on her Masters in Early Childhood Education. Kimberly is an avid reader, loves planning special events and is a pet lover with two cats and one dog.

Cheron Respress: Administrative Coordinator

E-mail Cheron! or 708.371.1328

Cheron joined United Way in 2008, first serving as an Administrative Assistant and now currently as an Administrative Coordinator where she serves as the primary contact for the SSW Volunteer Board and administers monthly financial reporting for SSW. Cheron is also the Lead Coordinator for non-fund raising special events, organizes our Annual Coat Drive, Adopt-a-Family, school sponsorships, visits to senior homes & other related community outreach. Cheron is also the SSW MUW representative in Silo Busters. Cheron has two daughters and resides in Beverly on the Southwest side of Chicago. She loves all kinds of music and people. She loves to learn and to laugh. Cheron has always had a desire to serve others and finds herself very much at home with the mission of United Way.

Murray Helfer: Account Manager

E-mail Murray! or 708.371.1328

Murray has been a beloved member of the United Way team since 2006, coming to SSW from the DuPage/West Cook office. Murray’s knowledge and passion of the Southland region has been an integral component in the office. As a Loaned Executive, Murray is responsible for retail accounts and assists the Fundraising Manager with the area’s top accounts and special events.