In 2018, United Way of Greater Cleveland established the Marc S. Byrnes Award for Community Service, named for our former board chair in recognition of his leadership and commitment to Greater Cleveland. This award was created to honor, from time to time, an individual who exemplifies Marc’s spirit, courage, and vision.
On September 30, Paul Dolan became only the second recipient of this award. Augie Napoli, President and CEO of United Way of Greater Cleveland, presented the award to Paul in front of more than 800 government, community, business and nonprofit leaders during our annual luncheon.
“Paul is most well known as the Chair and CEO of the Cleveland Guardians, but what many don’t know is the depth and breadth of his commitment to Greater Cleveland,” said Augie, “Paul is a true champion for this community, and devotes thousands of hours each year to a wide range of causes and initiatives, including Velosano, Boys and Girls Clubs, Greater Cleveland Partnership and so many more. And of course, United Way of Greater Cleveland.”
Paul has been an engaged and passionate director of United Way of Greater Cleveland since 2002, serving as a dedicated member of the Executive, Resource Development, and Community Impact Committees and the Philanthropic Fund, as well as leadership roles including Donor Relations Chair and United Way of Greater Cleveland Board Chair since 2018.
Under Paul’s unwavering leadership, United Way of Greater Cleveland made a transformative shift in the way we serve those most in need across Greater Cleveland. We are now going beyond meeting the immediate needs of those living in poverty to confronting its root causes through the creation of long-term partnerships and sustainable solutions that aim to mitigate poverty’s generational stranglehold.
Throughout his tenure as an exceptional United Way volunteer, Paul has continuously challenged the status quo – the way things have always been done – because United Way will not accept needless suffering as the reality for our neighbors in need. Paul continues to drive important conversations to ensure long-term, positive change for our community.
On a personal note, Augie shared: “Paul has been my counterbalance at times, generously lending his support and guidance as we navigated the waters of building a whole new business model. Over the past six years, I’ve come to know Paul as a true example of an outstanding servant leader. He has been a valuable colleague and a trusted advisor, and I’m so glad I can also count him as a friend.”
