Jeff Cline, the Executive Director of ALS United Mid-Atlantic, has been an essential part of our organization for two decades.
In June 2005, Jeff joined the organization as Chief Development Officer with a clear mission: to grow the organization’s revenue in major and planned giving by deepening relationships with patients, families, donors, and advocates. And that’s exactly what he did. In 2008, the organization kicked off its very first major gifts campaign that achieved its targeted goal of $5 million. Part of that effort included the unveiling of a Named Fund Program that continues to be an integral part of the organization’s development strategy.
In January 2020, Jeff was appointed Executive Director just weeks before the world changed. The COVID-19 pandemic would test every aspect of nonprofit leadership. And yet, under Jeff’s steady hand, ALS United Mid-Atlantic not only endured, but evolved.
Jeff spearheaded a strategic planning process in 2024 with the Board of Directors, after ALS United Mid-Atlantic and 14 other organizations left our former national organization to become independent entities. Navigating legal restructuring, bylaw changes, and a complete organizational reimagining are just some of the obstacles Jeff faced. “It’s been quite a transition from being a member of a federated organization to becoming independent,” he said. His vision, patience, and resolve during that time will remain an important component of the organization’s history, but he is quick to point out that it was a total team effort involving the board and staff.
While his professional achievements are substantial, it’s Jeff’s humanity that people connect with most. While many find their energy depleted by the demands of constant personal interaction, Jeff derives energy and finds joy in being around people. That genuine connection is what makes him a leader that people want to follow, and a friend people trust.
Get to know Jeff!
- Favorite Patient Event: ALS Family Day at Longwood Gardens
- Favorite Fundraising Event: The Annual Celebration
- Favorite Activity: Golf
- Favorite Show: Jeopardy!
- Favorite Things to Do (besides golf):
- Art – scouring thrift shops and yard sales for picture frames to repurpose as the new home for my own artwork.
- Writing novels with these themes: personal transformation, spirituality, humor, human connection, and ALS Awareness.
- Going anywhere on my e-scooter.