United Way Executive Resigns

The chief of United Way Silicon Valley has resigned to manage the political campaign of a former e-Bay executive running for state controller.

Greg Larson announced his resignation yesterday. He says it´s hard to leave the United Way, but he couldn´t turn down his Democrat friend, Steve Westly.

Larson will leave the nonprofit in January, and United Way officials hope to have a replacement selected by then.

United Way officials praised Larson´s work over his 16-month tenure and said it´s unfortunate he´s leaving with the slowing economy.

Larson came on board after the agency experienced severe financial problems in 1999. Former CEO Eleanor Jacobs had exaggerated fundraising projections while reducing agency reserves.

Larson´s position pays 160-thousand dollars a year.