United Way of Fresno County President R. Michael Alexander retires

United Way of Fresno County President and CEO R. Michael Alexander retired on Friday after nearly five years leading the local chapter of the nonprofit.

Alexander cited personal health and family reasons for his exit, saying he planned to spend more time with his wife, two children and grandchildren.

Bob Reyes, chairman of the United Way of Fresno County board, said an interim CEO would be appointed while the organization searches for a permanent replacement. He thanked Alexander for his years of service and helping it through a major economic recession.

Alexander took over as CEO in January 2011, Reyes said. Prior to that, he had served as a member of the board while working for Kaiser Permanente Fresno.

During Alexander’s tenure, United Way of Fresno County returned more than $25 million to low-income families through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. The nonprofit has also distributed hundreds of thousands of toys through Toys for Tots and saved residents millions of dollars through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program.

Alexander spent 40 years working in healthcare and on nonprofit boards in Fresno County. He was previously the senior vice president administrator at Kaiser Permanente. He has served in leadership roles with Fresno Compact, Fresno Business Council, Fresno First Steps Home and the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission.

This story was originally published July 10, 2015 at 6:33 PM with the headline "United Way of Fresno County President R. Michael Alexander retires."