The United Way of Douglas County has a new voice.

Napolean Crews, a Lawrence author and playwright, started this month as the organization’s community relations manager, a new position created to communicate the United Way chapter’s mission, accomplishments and activities in the Lawrence area and beyond.

Crews is responsible for publishing the organization’s monthly Spirit of Kaw Valley newsletter, managing the Caring Club program, updating the organization’s Web site, establishing relationships with neighboring United Way organizations, developing the Forever United Endowment, and assisting in the organization’s annual campaign.

Crews previously assisted the chapter through the United Way Loaned Executive Program.

The United Way chapter supports 26 member agencies.