Claims of sexual harassment against United Way CEO

United Way Worldwide was recently named America’s Favorite Charity by the Chronicle of Philanthropy. On the home page of their website, the organization touts their promise to “advance the common good in communities across the world.”

Even with a coveted award and a strong mission statement, a trio of female employees feel differently. In the filing of three separate claims, they exposed the alleged hypocrisy over the course of 18 months against Brian Gallagher, United Way’s CEO.

The top executive faces charges of sexual harassment, serious accusations that resulted in two of the claimants losing their jobs and one allegedly targeted for job termination by Gallagher.

The complaint filed to the EEOC used terms such as “ogling,” “flirting,” and “stalking” by Gallagher while documenting a pattern of his penchant for inappropriate comments. All three women found themselves suddenly out of favor in the organization. The one who remained working found longtime and much-needed resources taken away.

The investigation is ongoing as Gallagher remains in power at the top. Ironically, the United Way’s longtime mission is to support people who are experiencing difficulties in life. For three female professionals, their problems remain unsolved and their pursuit for justice incomplete.