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OUR MISSION
βTo improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our communities in Otter Tail & Wadena Counties.β
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Looking back over my first year |
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Sept. 1 was my one-year anniversary with United Way. My plan was to post something on social media, but between multiple schools presentations, campaign business blitzes, Day of Caring, and Coats for Kids time got away from me.
The big question " what did I learn in this past year?" Well, that is a loaded question because I have learned so much about United Way but I have also learned a lot about myself.
When we have strong leaders (Mary), we find ourselves not just learning but expanding our knowledge in every aspect, professional and personal.
Within this growth has come more confidence "self-worth" and this is due to all the amazing mentors (Kristi, Colleen, and Mary) that have guided me in/on my journey. They gave me words of wisdom when needed and lifting me up when I didn't believe it was deserved.
To the communities we serve, Otter Tail & Wadena Counties. Everyone from community partners to residents has been welcoming, kind and responsive, but most off making new friends.
While reading this you might be thinking I have rose color glasses on, but I speak the truth. With every job, there are days that aren't great or productive, but that's part of the job (other duties as assigned) π
My position with United Way has brought many challenges and rewards but I have to say the best part is the support of my family. Their support on this journey to the country, small-town living has been a wonderful change for all of us.
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Imagination Library Launches in Wadena County |
Mark your calendars because the Imagination Library train is rolling into town on Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021.
The journey will start in Mengaha at 10 a.m., its next stop will be Sebeka at Noon, and rolling into the station in Wadena at 2:30 p.m. We will be registering children from birth to 5 for a FREE book a month.
We can't wait to see all the children.
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Mental Illness, End the Stigma |
Tuesday, Oct. 19 | 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. |
St. Ann's Catholic Church - Registration $10 | lunch, materials & resources).
Changing minds about mental health one conversation at a time.
Join us and hear from local community advisors on exploring the impact in our community along with learning about awareness and accessing resources.
Event Moderator: Women United Member, Cris Oehler
Our Panelists:
- Father Aaron Kuhn, St. Ann's Catholic Church
- Lee Westrum, Wadena-Deer Creek Superintentant
- Tri-County Health Care
- Naomi Plautz, Wadena Chief of Police
- Michael Carr,
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18 garden beds installed and flourishing! We have 17 participants, most with families, a few seniors. 5 are returning from last year, so 12 are new. 1 bed is used for a strawberry patch, and each family has it's own strawberry patch.
We expanded our row of perennials to include asparagus, which will take 3 years before it can be picked, along with our rhubarb, and raspberry patch.
Participants are loving their plots, and are picking an abundance of vegetables- MUCH more than in previous years! And, the addition of the landscape material under the wood chips makes for a lower maintenance, and more attractive garden. This will make it a more sustainable project in years to come.
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In collaboration with New York Mills High School, United Way coordinated a Day of Caring on Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2021. This event served senior citizens, military veterans, and people with special circumstances within city limits. We served seven residents of New York Mills.
Thank you to all our community sponsors,
o Brunswick NYM Operations
o Central Minnesota Credit Union
o Farmers & Merchants State Bank
o Klein Insurance & Financial Services
o New York Mills Lions Club
o Tender Heart Home Care
Thank you for your dedication to making a beautiful and stronger community.
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Campaign Calendar - upcoming dates |
2021 Campaign Goal $400,000 |
United Way is gearing up for its annual fundraising campaign, and we are so excited to see all of you in person!
This past year taught us how to reinvent fundraising in a pandemic, present to businesses and agencies virtually, and continue to support our community's most critical programs.
Last year, your support of $438,138 provided funding for over 45 local programs and initiatives. Local programs working to improve lives and fight for the health, education, and financial stability of everyone in our two counties.
Please consider investing in United Way of Otter Tail & Wadena Counties by donating, volunteering, or being a campaign champion.
Otter Tail & Wadena Counties, you are the Heart of Improving Lives!
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Camp Emily registration is now open! Space is limited, so registration is required.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors and community supporters, Camp Emily is offered free of charge
Camp Emily is for youth ages 7 to 18 who have experienced the death of someone they loved. Newly bereaved as well as those who have been on the path of grief for some time are welcome. Parents or guardians are asked to attend and participate. All groups will be divided by age and facilitated by bereavement social workers and counselors.
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(Click poster to enlarge) |
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π’ Ribfest is nearing! Grab your coworkers and plan to do lunch with us on π Thursday, Oct. 1st at Central Market Perham.
ο»ΏLip-smacking ribs for United Way!
Every rack sold $3 will be donated back to United Way.
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YOU IMPROVE LIVES LOCALLY WHEN YOU INVEST IN YOUR LOCAL UNITED WAY |
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UNITED Way fights for
the health, education and financial stability of
every person in our communities.
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