United Way 2026-2027 Campaign Chair
The Board of Directors for United Way of Virginia’s Eastern Shore has announced Ted Shockley as its Campaign Chair for the 2026-2027 fundraising season. A Breakfast will kick off the campaign on September 30th at the Market Street Methodist Church in Onancock.
Shockley is a native of Virginia’s Eastern Shore and is co-owner and editor of the Eastern Shore Post newspaper.
“Ted brings deep local knowledge, broad community visibility, and a strong commitment to United Way’s mission,” said Dawn Byrd, executive director of the United Way of Virginia’s Eastern Shore.
Shockley is a board director A&N Electric Cooperative in Tasley and ESO Arts Center in Belle Haven. He previously served as chairman of the Eastern Shore Public Library Board of Trustees.
He is a 2026 recipient of the Americanism Award by American Legion Post 56 in Cheriton, and a 2023 recipient of the Community Service Award presented by the Northampton County Chapter NAACP.
Shockley holds a degree in English from Salisbury University and is a 1991 graduate of Northampton High School.
He and his wife, Amy, who is director of student services at Eastern Shore Community College, live in Exmore and have two adult children.
“I am flattered and humbled to be asked to be campaign chair and am eager to help an organization that has contributed so much to our Eastern Shore,” he said.
This year’s campaign goal is $200,000. United Way leaders believe the goal is achievable with broad community participation. The campaign will support local agencies that improve quality of life across the Eastern Shore.
Since 1991, United Way of Virginia’s Eastern Shore has raised nearly $8.9 million for local nonprofit organizations. Funds raised through the campaign remain on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. They support programs serving residents.
Current UWVES corporate sponsors include John Fiege, CFP, and Waterside Motor Inn—Donna, Ruthann, Tom, Dylan, and Ryan Mason. To support UWVES by becoming a sponsor or starting a workplace campaign, please email Byrd at dawn@esunitedway.org.
United Way of Virginia’s Eastern Shore improves lives by mobilizing community support for local nonprofit organizations. These programs address critical needs across the Eastern Shore of Virginia. Through annual campaigns, workplace giving, and individual contributions, United Way helps strengthen services for residents and families. For more information or to make a donation visit our How to Give page.