UTICA — After an extensive search and interview process, the United Way of the Mohawk Valley’s Board of Directors named Matthew Caracas the organization’s CEO. 

“The Board of Directors and myself welcome Matt and look forward to his contributions,” stated United Way MV Board President Matthew Nicholl. “During the interview process, Matt’s qualifications to lead this organization and his immense passion for the Mohawk Valley community shined. Matt comes ready with great ideas and energy to keep moving United Way MV and our community forward.”

Caracas is a resident of west Utica. He spent several childhood years in New Hartford and Rome, graduating from Rome Free Academy. Caracas received his degrees locally from Mohawk Valley Community College in criminal justice and a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Polytechnic Institute in sociology.

Caracas has worked with inner-city youth, child welfare, and case management for more than 20 years as part of his work in human services. From the beginning of his career to his most recent job with The House of the Good Shepherd, Caracas has shown that he can lead important initiatives, large-scale projects, community relationships, capacity building, and organizational management.

United Way officials say Caracas has many professional accomplishments, including instituting initiatives and programs aimed at creating a better quality of life for those in the Mohawk Valley.

“During the COVID pandemic, when around-the-clock care and supervision of juveniles was required, I found creative ways to build a resilient culture for our staff and clients,” said Caracas. “I am excited to take my innovative problem-solving mindset to United Way MV to continue to support this staff, our non-profit network, and the people we serve in this community.”

Matthew Caracas began as United Way MV’s CEO on March 13.