Shannon Benolken works at Park State Bank as a Business Banker. Shannon has always been active in the community, having had both volunteer and professional roles within community service organizations, including Itasca Economic Development Corporation, Johns Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon, Bridges Kinship Mentoring, Itasca Orchestra and Strings Program, and Habitat for Humanity. Shannon and her husband, Dennis, and daughter (Erica) live in Warba with three horses, four chickens, and two dogs. She is an avid backpacker and spends as much time as possible hiking the trails in Minnesota.

What inspired you to be involved with United Way?

I wanted to be involved with an organization that gives to the community in many different ways.

What is the most rewarding thing you have taken from this experience?

I’m just getting started so I’ll let you know!

What is one word you would use to sum up United Way’s work?

Needed

What impresses you most about the Itasca Area?

The resilient people

What is one thing about United Way that you think most people don’t know?

That we play a role in education.

What advice would you give to a potential donor who is considering investing in United Way?

EVERY little bit helps. Large or small, we love them all!