HONOLULU, HI — Aloha United Way (AUW) is proud to announce the appointment of Michelle Bartell as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective Jan. 1st, 2025.
Bartell, currently Senior Vice President and Director of Community Advancement at American Savings Bank, brings a proven record of leadership and a deep commitment to community impact to her new position at Aloha United Way.
As CEO, Bartell will focus on advancing AUW’s mission to improve lives through community-driven solutions. Her priorities include reducing financial insecurity among ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households, strengthening the AUW 211 Helpline, and supporting Safety Net partners and over 200 nonprofit organizations that rely on AUW’s resources.
In her current role, Bartell leads charitable initiatives at American Savings Bank, cultivating strong relationships with nonprofit partners, schools, area legislators, and government agencies. She has been instrumental in expanding access to affordable housing through the bank’s Affordable Housing Hui, managing corporate giving budgets, and engaging teammates across five islands in community-focused efforts.
Brian Bowers, Chair of Aloha United Way’s Board of Directors, expressed his excitement about Bartell’s appointment:
“Michelle’s track record of leadership and her deep connections across Hawai‘i make her the ideal choice to lead Aloha United Way. Her expertise in building partnerships and driving meaningful change will ensure AUW continues to be a catalyst for community transformation.”
John Fink, retiring CEO of Aloha United Way, also shared his thoughts:
“I am thrilled to pass the torch to Michelle. Her passion, creativity, and commitment to Hawai‘i will undoubtedly strengthen Aloha United Way’s role as a trusted community partner.”
“I am honored to join Aloha United Way and continue its proud legacy of service to our community,” Bartell said. “I’m eager to leverage my experience, connections, and passion to push for meaningful, systems-level change that benefits all Hawai‘i’s residents. Together, we can create a more resilient and equitable future for our islands.”
Michelle Bartell is a visionary and collaborative leader who has dedicated her career to addressing Hawai‘i’s most pressing challenges. With a proven ability to lead teams, build community partnerships, and turn plans into action, she is poised to guide Aloha United Way toward a stronger future for Hawai‘i’s families.
Contact Information for Inquiries
Brian Bowers, AUW Executive Committee Board Chair: bbowers@bowersandkubota.com
About Aloha United Way
Founded in 1919, Aloha United Way brings resources, organizations and businesses together to advance the health, education and financial stability of every person in our community. AUW has evolved over the years and adapted to meet our community’s greatest needs focusing on amplifying non-profit agencies and their work as well as the 211 Statewide Helpline, ALICE Initiative and Safety Net Fund. A member of United Way Worldwide, AUW supports nonprofits and communities on Oʻahu. For more information, visit AUW.org or connect with us on social media – @AlohaUnitedWay.
