This was before the pandemic. Before one of the darkest years in our country’s history. Many more of your friends and neighbors may be struggling as it draws to a close.
When you donate $20.20 or more to United Way, you are helping address specific needs and brighten the lives of men, women, and children.Did you know...
But You can change that. Right Now. You can be The Light your community needs.
Addressing the Needs
The generosity of individuals has always been critical to our work in the community, and 2019 was no exception. Together, we will continue to help thousands of our neighbors in their time of need.
5,761
children and adults had their basic needs met, including food, shelter, and safety
Join Us in Strengthening the Education, Health, and Financial Stability of our Region
Tasha Klockow, Klockow Brewing Co.
“The pandemic has created significant challenges for our family, friends, and neighbors. When you support United Way, you’re helping to address a broad range of issues like isolation, food insecurity, unemployment, mental illness, drug addiction, and domestic violence.”

Dr. Leanna McBride, Grand Dental Center
“United Way provides funds to many nonprofit and initiatives in the area. Programs like the YMCA, Kiesler Wellness Center, and advocates for family peace – things our community needs that may not be able to operate without the United Way’s support.”

Peter Birkey, Community Member
“United Way supports dozens of programs across the area. It touches school-age children, it touches the elderly, it is a great way to show you love and appreciate the area. These programs do great things for the community.”

Amanda Kluge, Minnesota Power
“One of the strongest and most powerful components of our work is how we allocate resources. This committee is made up of community members who are dedicated to bettering the world around them. It is their voice and their decisions that create the allocations to the organizations that United Way funds.”

Steve Loney, Kiesler Wellness Center
“Kiesler Wellness Center has been connected with United Way for a number of years. We go back to the beginning of when Kiesler Wellness Center was established. United Way has been supportive of our development programs that support people recovering from mental illness. United Way has been with us the whole way.”

Alie McInerney, Blandin Foundation
“I’ve been a part of this community for almost 30 years, in that time I have seen all the amazing things United Way does to touch the community. When I had a chance to be part of this work, I stepped up to be a part of something that I think makes this community great.”
MAKE 2020 BRIGHTER FOR YOUR COMMUNITY
We are so thankful for everyone who helped us not only meet, but exceed our goal – raising more than $25,000 for our region’s nonprofit safety net.
2020 may be over, but our work isn’t done. A gift to United Way will help us continue building a future for our region where everyone can thrive.
Your Gift of…
- $50 provides 200 meals to address food insecurity
- $100 provides ten hours of tutoring for a school-age child
- $260 transports a veteran to an out-of-town medical appointments
- $500 provides an early childhood scholarship for a low-income family
Donations support more than 24 nonprofit programs that reach children, adults, and families across the region through United Way’s Stronger United campaign.
Gifts can also be made by texting LAKES to 26989 or by check to United Way of 1000 Lakes and mailed to 350 NW 1st Ave., Grand Rapids MN 55744.