By Erica Solvig
The Cincinnati Enquirer

LEBANON - The longtime executive director of the Warren County United Way is no longer with the agency, although officials are not saying why.

Jim Pottebaum's last day was Sept. 29, according to Joanne Bosche, president of the board of directors. She confirmed his departure Tuesday, but would not explain why Pottebaum - who was with the agency for more than 20 years - is gone.

"There was no wrongdoing," Bosche said. "I want to say more but I can't."

Pottebaum did not return calls to his home Tuesday.

Barbara Nicholson of Morrow, a board member for six years and the agency's Volunteer of the Year last year, is filling in as interim executive director. A permanent director likely will be hired by the end of the year.

Nicholson will take over duties of overseeing campaign management, the funding allocation process and the volunteer resource center.

She would not answer questions about Pottebaum's September departure, but did say she did not get to shadow him in his position. Nicholson is not planning to apply for the executive director position.

The news comes as the Warren County United Way is wrapping up its eight-week donation drive, with a goal of raising $2.45 million for 31 member agencies. The agency has reached nearly 50 percent of its goal, according to a recent news release.

Pottebaum left after the campaign kickoff.

"United Way is functioning very well," Bosche said. "It was a smooth transition..."

E-mail esolvig@enquirer.com