(Harrisburg) -- The head of the United Way of the Capital Region has announced he will retire after next fall's fundraising campaign is completed. Joseph Capita has served as the president and CEO since 1995. "Our United Way is in a strong position. We just completed a strategic plan cycle and our 15th consecutive successful campaign," he says. "I think it’s the right time for the organization, and the right time for me. I want to allow enough time to assure a smooth and thoughtful transition." The central Pennsylvania native previously worked as executive director of the Lycoming United Way for five years. In the past few years, the capital region has exceeded its annual fundraising goals and increased allocations to program partners. "Joe has always been gracious and quick to give credit to others for United Way’s outstanding performance," says UWCR Board Chair Robert Jones, president of Fulton Bank’s Capital Division. "But the fact is, his leadership and dedication to the mission of the organization have been immense factors in our success." The 62-year-old Capita says he's not made specific retirement plans, but intends to remain involved in the community. His official date for stepping down is January 31st, 2013. The United Way of the Capital Region covers Cumberland, Dauphin and Perry counties.