STERLING – United Way of Whiteside County CEO Diana Verhulst is stepping down from her post effective Nov. 20.

Verhulst has led the UWWC for four years, during that time working to create new community impact programs, add partner agencies, engage new donors and develop a digital outreach program with a monthly newsletter set to launch in November.

She was active in the United Way of Illinois, serving on the executive board of Illinois 2-1-1, a program aimed at connecting people with non-emergency crisis services.

Verhulst succeeded Russ Siefken Jr., who led the organization for 24 years.

Verhulst is stepping away from the United Way of Whiteside County, but still plans to minister at the Franklin Grove Church of the Brethren and study divinity at the Bethany Theological Seminary.

The United Way board is in search of Verhulst's successor. Those interested in the position can submit a resume to uwwcexecsearch@gmail.com