Spotlight on Long Island: Meet Theresa Regnante
Leading with Heart, Lifting Every Generation
When it comes to community service, few Long Islanders have made as wide and lasting an impact as Theresa Regnante, President and CEO of United Way of Long Island. For more than a decade, she has been the driving force behind initiatives that help families thrive, veterans rebuild, and older adults live safely and independently — proving that leadership is not about position, but purpose.
Theresa’s career with United Way spans decades, but her mission remains constant: to meet people where they are and lift them up. Since taking the helm in 2009, she has reimagined the organization as a hub for innovation, compassion, and opportunity. Whether it’s supporting affordable housing, training Long Islanders for green-energy jobs, or ensuring seniors can age gracefully at home, Theresa’s work touches every generation.
Her program “Safe at Home” is one of the most meaningful. It provides repairs, accessibility ramps, and energy-efficient upgrades to help seniors remain in the homes they love. “People are losing their entire assets of their homes,” Theresa explained. “As a result, United Way is focusing on preventive measures.” That focus has allowed thousands of aging residents to maintain independence, safety, and dignity right here on Long Island.
Under her leadership, United Way of Long Island also became the first nonprofit in the region to operate out of a Net Zero Energy Building, producing as much energy as it consumes. This environmental milestone reflects Theresa’s belief that caring for our planet is an extension of caring for each other — and ensures the next generation inherits a greener, more compassionate world.
From the Mission United program for veterans to Project Warmth, which provides emergency heating assistance during cold winters, Theresa’s leadership consistently puts people first. “Because of dedicated supporters like PSEG Long Island,” she said, “United Way can be sure that Long Islanders’ homes remain heated, and in a safe manner.”
Her efforts have earned her national recognition, including being named to City & State’s Nonprofit Power 100 list — but Theresa’s true success can be seen in the faces of those whose lives have been changed. For her, every repaired home, every new job training graduate, and every senior who sleeps safely in their own bed is a victory worth celebrating.
As Long Islanders, we can take pride in knowing that leaders like Theresa Regnante continue to make our region a better place for all — proving that when compassion meets action, the ripple effect can touch every heart and every home.
If you know anyone who may need any of these services, please reach out to:
United Way of Long Island 819 Grand Blvd, Deer Park, NY 11729
631-940-3700 | www.unitedwayli.org
Theresa is living proof for all of us that “it’s never too late to give back, lift someone up, and leave your own beautiful mark on Long Island.”
Andrea Peponakis
Andrea Peponakis is a retired foreign language teacher who then became a local newspaper journalist and local radio show host. Born and raised in Astoria, Queens and on Long Island, Andrea is now focusing on writing children’s books. The motivation to become an author was inspired by her three grandchildren. Her book, Grandma, Grandma, Tell Me More: My Family Loves Me, was featured at this year’s London Book Festival and at The LA Times Book Fair. Andrea currently resides on Long Island near her children and grandchildren. Her days are spent creating everlasting memories with her grandchildren and writing.
