Denise Damron
Director
Denise Damron serves as the Executive Director of the United Way of the Mark Twain Area, where she leads with a deep commitment to strengthening the local community and expanding opportunities for individuals and families. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and a Master’s Degree in Education in Counseling, both from Quincy University.
Denise began her nonprofit career as District Manager for Junior Achievement, where she spent four years advancing the organization’s reach and impact. In 2018, she joined United Way as Executive Director, a role in which her passion for serving others and creating meaningful change thrives. Under her leadership, United Way has championed numerous initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life across the region.
Denise and her husband, Dakota, are deeply rooted in service at home as well—they became foster parents and later adopted their two oldest children. Denise is active throughout the community, leading the Community Health Improvement Plan, chairing the Tri-County Alliance, serving as a board member for Palmyra United Methodist Church, volunteering as a 4-H Horse Leader, and participating in various collaborative efforts.
Denise resides on her family farm in rural Hannibal with her husband and their children—Hannah, Jarret, Ellie, and Rutter—where they enjoy a life centered around faith, family, and community.