United Way of Tarrant County
Fort Worth thrives on the people who push boundaries — leaders who turn ambition into action and ideas into impact. On March 12, Kris Canfield joins that movement as United Way of Tarrant County’s new executive vice president and chief development officer. With a career built on connecting resources with the people who need them most, she steps into this role not just as a fundraiser, but as a force for change.
For nearly 15 years, Canfield has worked behind the scenes in nonprofit fundraising, donor engagement, and strategic initiative development — largely in North Texas. If philanthropy had a soundtrack, she’d be the producer, orchestrating multimillion-dollar campaigns and forging deep connections between communities and the resources they need most. Now, she’s bringing that talent to United Way, where she’ll lead workplace giving, major gifts, and volunteer initiatives while also spearheading the organization’s Second Century Campaign — a bold effort to unite donors, businesses, and community leaders in shaping Tarrant County’s future.
“Kris’s dedication to building meaningful connections and driving results aligns perfectly with our mission to create systemic change,” said Adam D. Powell, United Way of Tarrant County’s president and CEO. “Her leadership and fresh perspective will enhance our work across Tarrant County.”
Before stepping into this new role, Canfield served as chief development officer at the Center for Transforming Lives, where she strengthened donor engagement, boosted annual fundraising, and improved donor retention by 10%, according to a release. Her resume also includes key positions at PathLight International and Girls Inc. of Tarrant County, where she secured millions in funding, developed major donor programs, and expanded volunteer initiatives. In short: she knows how to get things done.
A recognized leader in corporate partnerships, grant management, and impact-driven storytelling, Canfield is no stranger to exceeding expectations. She’s been honored as a Fort Worth 40 Under 40 recipient (before our sister publication Fort Worth Inc. took it over) and currently serves on the executive board for the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth and Artes de la Rosa. Her work isn’t just about raising money — it’s about building bridges and telling stories that inspire people to step up and make a difference.
A graduate of Mid-America Christian University with a bachelor’s degree in English literature and multicultural studies, Canfield now calls Fort Worth home.
“I’m excited to join United Way of Tarrant County and help unite people and resources for meaningful change,” Canfield said in a statement. “I’ve seen firsthand the power of collaboration in strengthening communities through my work in nonprofit development. Fort Worth is home, and I look forward to bringing new energy and ideas to advance this organization’s mission.”
