Harnessing the Power of Community: Erin Birch’s Leadership Through Crisis and Beyond
In a world where leadership means facing tough decisions and navigating uncharted waters, Erin Birch shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. As CEO of United Way of Sumner County, Erin blends compassion, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. In a recent episode of A Good Pour, we sat down to talk about how United Way has become a cornerstone of support in times of crisis, driving the kind of change that only happens when people come together.
The Heart of United Way
United Way is all about harnessing the “caring power” of the community to tackle real problems—whether it’s health, education, or financial stability. In Sumner County, that looks like partnerships with over 40 nonprofits, businesses, and local governments, all working together to build a network of support that reaches every corner of the community.
Erin’s philosophy is simple but powerful: “No issue is isolated, and no one agency can do it all well.” This collective mindset is what allows United Way to tackle the obvious issues—like hunger and homelessness—and the hidden challenges that sometimes go unnoticed but are just as important.
From Crisis to Action: The Tornado Response
When tornadoes hit Sumner County in December, Erin’s leadership was put to the ultimate test. With no prior disaster experience, she stepped up, leading her team and the community through the chaos. Erin describes those first few days after the storm as “a whirlwind,” but that didn’t stop her from springing into action.
“I felt so personally invested in what we accomplished as a community,” she reflects. Within hours of the tornado, Erin and her team were on the ground, setting up disaster hubs, coordinating volunteers, and working with local agencies to streamline efforts. In less than two days, United Way had raised funds and begun distributing resources to families and businesses in need. The response from the community was overwhelming, with nearly a thousand volunteers stepping up to help.
The Road to Recovery
Recovery didn’t end once the debris was cleared. For Erin, it was about the long haul—ensuring that people could rebuild their lives, not just their homes. “Even now, we’re still seeing cleanup, and folks are still running into challenges,” she says.
United Way’s role shifted from immediate disaster relief to long-term support, focusing on making sure the community didn’t just survive but came out stronger. Erin’s leadership wasn’t just about logistics; it was about being there for the people of Sumner County, listening to their needs, and doing everything she could to support them.
What Makes a Great Leader?
Erin’s approach to leadership is both down-to-earth and deeply insightful. For her, it’s about focusing on the people in front of you, understanding their needs, and being there for them. “A good leader is someone who pays attention to the people in front of them,” she says. Leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about showing up, listening, and sometimes, asking for help.
During the tornado crisis, Erin leaned on her network of family, friends, and colleagues to get through. “It was about asking for help when I needed it,” she admits, underscoring how important it is to recognize when you can’t do it all alone. Her humility and willingness to collaborate are hallmarks of her leadership style.
Looking Ahead
Erin’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength of community and the impact of compassionate leadership. Her journey through the tornado crisis, and her ongoing work with United Way, show us that even in the face of disaster, the caring power of a community can lead to incredible change.
As Sumner County continues to rebuild and grow, Erin Birch’s leadership and the work of United Way stand as a testament to what’s possible when we come together with a shared purpose. It’s a story of resilience, compassion, and the kind of leadership that doesn’t just guide people through hard times—it lifts them to a brighter future.
Let’s take a page from Erin’s book and remember the power we have when we show up for each other. Together, we can make today—and every day—a good day.