A native of small-town Minnesota, Rhonda Mecl spent five years in Portland, Oregon, and three decades in Anoka while working in Minneapolis before returning to Northern Minnesota in 2020. Recently retired from a career as a federal employee in public health protection, she brings extensive experience in managing, training, and leading inspection staff while ensuring accountability and transparency.

Rhonda and her husband, Glen, have two adult children—one in Washington, DC, and the other in Boise, Idaho—both working for nonprofit organizations, including Special Olympics, Inclusion in Schools, and the Boise Bike Project. Three years ago, Flynn, a golden retriever in need of rehoming, joined the family and quickly became her treasured companion and partner in all adventures. Rhonda is excited to continue serving public health and supporting the well-being of her new community.

What inspired you to be involved with United Way?
After 36 years as a civil servant, I discovered United Way as a way to channel my passion for public health into expanding and contributing to the well-being of my community. I admire the organization and the structure it takes to achieve such a complex mission, given the vast needs of our community members. Most of all, I truly enjoy the dedication of the organization’s leaders.

What is the most rewarding thing you have taken from this experience?
The opportunity to visit more than half a dozen nonprofit organizations in Grand Rapids and surrounding communities and see firsthand the incredible work they are doing to improve the lives of the people they serve.

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

What impresses you most about the Itasca Area?
What impresses me most about the Itasca Area is that the primary core value is to help. I see it all the time, in both small and large acts of kindness.

What is one thing about United Way that you think most people don’t know?
I think many people would be surprised to learn that all the achievements of United Way of 1000 Lakes are made possible by a small but mighty team—one full-time and one part-time employee—who work tirelessly to keep volunteers on track and the mission moving forward.

What advice would you give to a potential donor who is considering investing in United Way?
Take a moment to explore the United Way of 1000 Lakes website and see for yourself how donations are maximized to make the greatest impact.