ABOUT us
Serving Bristol with care & commitment
We’re a nonprofit organization working year-round to improve life for individuals and families across Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. From Bristol, TN to Bristol, VA and beyond, our work brings people together to tackle some of the region’s most pressing challenges. Through programs, partnerships, and community support, we create opportunities for stability, growth, and a brighter future for all.
What Guides Our Work
United Way of Bristol TN/VA mobilizes our community to action so all can thrive.
The mission of the United Way of Bristol is to bring together resources to help people in our community live healthy, productive lives.
Our
Bold Goal, adopted by our Board of Directors in 2024, is to empower individuals and families in our community to achieve stability and self-sufficiency.
Meet the People Behind the Work
Our staff is passionate about impact
Lisa Cofer
President & CEO
Lisa has served as Executive Director of the United Way of Bristol since 1998 and previously worked as Vice President of Member Services for the Bristol Chamber of Commerce. A Bristol native and community leader, she is an award-winning professional who enjoys family time, boating, and UT football.
Lorie Bradley
Director of Community Outreach
Lorie Bradley joined the United Way of Bristol in 1998 and brings many years of office management experience to her role. A longtime Bristol resident, she is active in local service organizations and enjoys spending time with family, especially her grandson, Myles.
Debbie Helton
Director of Finance
Debbie Helton joined the United Way of Bristol in 1998 and holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration. She lives in Bluff City, attends Victory Bible Fellowship, and enjoys time with her two sons and her Scottish Terrier, Andy.
JT Lovelace
Resource Coordinator
JT joined the United Way Bristol TN/VA in February 2025, where he focuses on grant writing, case management, and supporting clients through meaningful services.
2026 Board of Directors
Board Officers
- President: Shelly Brown
- Vice President: Patrick Cashman
- Secretary: Teresa Anderson
- Treasurer: Cheri Blevins
Teresa Anderson — Alpha Metallurgical Resources
Tyler Arnold -- Eastman Credit Union
Mark Begrin — Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Bristol
Bob Bender — Ballad Health
Cheri Blevins — Brown, Edwards & Co.
Morgan Brewster -- The United Company
Shelly Brown — United Southeast Federal Credit Union
Patrick Cashman — US Antibiotics
Jim Doty — WCYB
Jody Dutcher — Electro-Mechanical Corporation
Carolyn Ferrell — The Robinette Company
David Gibbs — Strongwell Corporation
David Hacker — Bristol Tennessee Essential Services
Kristi Haulsee — Tri-Cities Airport Authority
Jake Holmes — City of Bristol, VA
Tonia Kestner -- Bristol Public Library
Ronan King — King University
Chris Lee — Retired
Jim Maxwell — Retired
Lisa Porter — Beyond Housing
Beth Rhinehart — Bristol Chamber of Commerce
Bradley Robertson — Trust Point Insurance
Dr. David Scott — Bristol Virginia Public Schools
Martha Smith — Shearer’s
Dr. Annette Tudor — Bristol Tennessee City Schools
Ashton White --Bristol Motor Speedway
Kevin Wysor — First Horizon Bank
