Mary Lou Harju joined the United Way of Beaver County in 2022. She is a seasoned nonprofit leader with a strong foundation with more than 35 years of experience in program management, marketing and fundraising. Mary Lou has devoted the majority of her career to mission-driven work. She spent 30 years in faith-based long-term care management, marketing and development, including 20 years serving nonprofit organizations in Beaver County. Her professional journey began in shopping center and real estate management and marketing, providing a strong foundation in strategic planning, relationship-building, and community engagement - skills she has successfully applied throughout her nonprofit career. Mary Lou has a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Marketing and Marketing Research from Penn State University.
Deeply committed to strengthening the community she calls home, Mary Lou brings both business acumen and heart to her work. She lives in Beaver County with her husband and their adopted retired racing greyhounds, reflecting her passion not only for service but also for giving second chances and supporting causes that make a lasting impact.