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Fort Atkinson, WI – July 17, 2017 – The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is officially kicking-off its 2017 United Way campaign, under the message of “An Investment for All.”

“We are so excited to be kicking off our 2017 United Way campaign and are eager to share our campaign message of ‘An Investment for All’ with our communities,” states Megan Hartwick, United Way executive director. “Our mission at United Way is to fight for the health, education and financial stability of every person in our communities. We strongly believe that one of the main advantages our United Way provides our donors, is our ability to reach so many people through our support. A donation to our United Way is truly impactful to our communities as a whole, because it helps us work together with all of our partners to create stronger, healthier communities that are better for all of us. When one of us is stronger, we’re all stronger!”

A total of 28 local companies have already committed their support for the 2017 United Way campaign. Their campaign dates will range from September – January and each run their campaigns slightly different, depending on what is most effective for their staff and their schedules.

“Approximately 73% of the total funds raised in our campaign comes directly from our workplace supporters – through a combination of fundraisers, employee donations and corporate support,” Hartwick states. “We are so grateful for the local companies who support us year after year, as well as those who are choosing to join our efforts for the first year.”

The remaining 27% of campaign support is provided by a combination of individual donors, local small business, foundation grants, and various regional corporate donations.”

“We have an incredibly strong base of individual donors, many of whom have a personal tie to our United Way or an organization that we support,” Hartwick adds. “We are so grateful to every single person, company and foundation that believes in our mission and lends their support to it. We are only able to have the impact in our communities that we do because of the support we receive.”

There are a number of ways to support the United Way campaign outside of making a financial contribution. Community members can share UWJNWC’s Facebook posts and campaign video (which can be found on the website at www.uwjnwc.com) to help share the mission and work of United Way. Community members are also highly encouraged to volunteer their time to United Way or one of the many organizations with posted volunteer needs on www.volunteermain.com.

“We absolutely understand that not everyone who wants to support United Way is in a financial position to do so, and that’s why we love sharing other ways that community members can have an impact on our organization,” Hartwick states.

United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is still looking for additional partners and supporters for the 2017 campaign.

“We are constantly overwhelmed by the level of support we receive year after year, which has led to consistent increases in campaign donations for the past four years,” Hartwick notes. “But that doesn’t mean we’re content or slowing down! We are always looking for new people, businesses and partners to join our campaign efforts, because we know the needs of our communities haven’t slowed down. The more support we receive, the more we are able to provide to our communities. So we ask anyone who is able, to please consider joining us and making ‘An Investment for All’ this fall.”

All campaign materials, including a link to the United Way video, can be found on the brand new United Way website at www.uwjnwc.com. Anyone looking to get involved with the 2017 campaign should contact the United Way office directly at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties supports 27 local nonprofit organizations that provide critical health and human services to those in need. UWJNWC also provides support to four community programs and multiple pillar grant community projects each year. This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need. Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs. United Way fights for the health, education and financial stability of every person in our communities.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.uwjnwc.com or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.” For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer platform, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – June 5, 2017 – The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is excited to announce that Colleen O’Donnell, a student from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, has joined the United Way team for a summer internship.

“We are so excited to be kicking off our first-ever internship at United Way and feel very lucky to have Collen joining our team,” states Megan Hartwick, United Way executive director.  “All aspects of our United Way business has been growing over the past few years, especially our campaign support, community outreach and grant allocations, so we were very eager to find a way to grow our team and capacity without growing our organizational costs.  An internship was the perfect fit for our organization, while also providing incredibly valuable community and work experience to a student.”

O’Donnell is a communications major at UW-Whitewater and just completed her junior year. She is very active in the UW-Whitewater community and serves as the team manager of men’s lacrosse team and serves as the vice president of operations for the Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority.  She was drawn to the United Way internship because of the organization’s focus on improving health, education and financial stability in its communities.

“I decided to work at United Way to gain valuable work experience while being able to give back to my community,” O’Donnell stated.  “I am very excited to work with the board of directors and campaign managers in the next couple of months, to see first-hand how a campaign works.”

Upon successful completion of the summer internship, O’Donnell will be taking a temporary part-time position with United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties while Hartwick is on maternity leave.

“I feel we have put our United Way in a very strong position to continue to execute a successful annual fundraising campaign while I am out of the office,” Hartwick stated.  “Colleen is already learning so much about our organization, campaign and day to day operations, so she will be in a great position to temporarily lead the organization this fall. I look forward to her gaining experience working with our incredibly supportive communities.”

Any questions regarding the United Way internship can be directed to Hartwick at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”  For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – March 13, 2017 – The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is set to launch its fourth annual pillar grant funding opportunity.  The application cycle officially opens at 9am on Monday, March 20^th and closes at 5pm on Friday, April 21^st, with grant allocation decisions announced by Friday, May 19^th.

 

“Our United Way is excited to not only continue our support for our pillar grant opportunity, but to have increased the funding available for pillar grants for the fourth year in a row.  Over the past three years, we have been able to allocate a total of $41,585 to 23 different community projects and programs through this funding opportunity, and we are eager to grow that throughout 2017,” states Megan Hartwick, United Way executive director.  “We continue to see excitement around the pillar grants, both in applications received and campaign donations designated to the support of them.  Another successful campaign year has allowed us to continue to expand this specific community support.”

 

Pillar grants are a unique opportunity that differentiates from the traditional agency grants United Way provides, in that applicants are not required to be nonprofit organizations to be eligible for funding, although nonprofits are still able and encouraged to apply.  The opportunity is open to any and all community members, organizations/groups, schools, etc. that may have a great community project idea or an existing program that they need additional funding for.  The main requirement is that the project must be aimed at improving the health, education and/or financial stability of the communities which United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties supports.  Also, to ensure proper use of grant funds, pillar grant payments are made on a reimbursement basis after the receipt of paid invoices.

 

“The last three years of pillar grant funding has brought our United Way much needed increased visibility within our communities.  We’re often a very ‘behind-the-scenes’ organization, and many of our pillar grant supported projects and programs have brought us into the forefront,” Hartwick states.  “We’ve also seen some incredible partnerships develop through pillar grants with community groups and organizations that our United Way has not been involved with in the past.  This funding opportunity has allowed us to positively expand our impact on the health, education and financial stability of our communities.”

 

Some example of the past projects that have received funding are: mobile railyard equipment through Fort Healthcare; scholarships for local children to participate in the Working for Whitewater’s Wellness Fit Kid Shuffle; improvements/additions to school and community gardens; support for the Jefferson County Connections Youth Leadership Conference; Parents Cafes for Jefferson County Head Start; KIND News publication through the Humane Society of Jefferson County; a handicap accessible fishing pier at the Rivers Edge Nature Preserve, and many more.

 

“Each year, our board of directors is amazed by the exciting project and program proposals we receive for pillar grant consideration,” Hartwick adds.  “We encourage anyone looking for additional support with funding and community outreach to apply for 2017 funding.  We are looking so forward to continuing our support for our communities in new, innovative ways through increased pillar grant partnerships.”
All pillar grant applications must be completed online.  Log-in details can be obtained from the United Way office at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

 

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

 

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”  For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – December 8, 2016 –

The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties (UWJNWC) is now accepting applications from local nonprofit organizations who wish to become United Way partner agencies and receive grant funding during 2017.

“We are very proud to have helped support twenty-seven local nonprofit organizations as our partner agencies during 2016,” states Megan Hartwick, executive director.  “Although our existing partner agencies continue to have a higher demand for increased funding for their programs and services, we are always encouraging new nonprofit organizations to consider applying for United Way funding.  We always want to be exploring new partnerships to ensure we are helping the most people within our communities as possible, by supporting impactful and effective organizations.”

To be eligible to apply for United Way agency grant funding, an organization must maintain current tax-exempt status under section 501(c)3 or fall under the tax-exempt umbrella of a government agency, school or church.  All applicants must also provide direct services to individuals within our service area and those services must be focused on at least one of United Way’s main impact areas – health, education, and financial independence.  Qualified applicants must also: 1)account to the general public through the publication of an annual report or other appropriate means; 2)agree to comply with the UWJNWC’s agency agreement; 3)show that service(s) are not primarily for the benefit of any specific religious or political purpose, 4)demonstrate that service(s) are made available to all in the target population, regardless of the individuals ability to pay; 5)submit all required elements of the United Way grant process and participate in an agency grant interview.

“One of the greatest benefits our United Way offers our donors is the high level of accountability we hold our grant applicants and partner agencies to.  Our organization reviews the applications, budget, profit & loss statements, annual audits, statistics on clients served, success stories, detailed descriptions on how grant funds would be utilized, and much more.  Each applicant also has to participate in an interview process following the submission of their application.  It is an extensive process that ensures the generous donations we’ve received from our communities during our campaign, are allocated in the most effective and impactful way possible,” Hartwick adds.

 

Hartwick reviews every application and participate in every interview.  Approximately five additional “review teams,” comprised of members of the UWJNWC board of directors and community volunteers, also review applications and participate in the corresponding interviews.  Each community volunteer completes a survey with their feedback on each applicant.  The board of directors then makes the final allocation decisions.

Applications will be accepted until 5pm on January 20^th and all applicants will be notified of the board of director’s final decisions by late March.  Those approved for funding will receive equal payments quarterly throughout 2017.

The applications are all completed and reviewed online.  Any local nonprofit organization interested in applying for 2017 United Way funding should contact Hartwick at the United Way office to obtain log-in access to the site.  Any community member who is interested in participating in the agency grant application review and interview process, can also contact Hartwick at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 26 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need, as well as various community-enhancement pillar grant projects, and four community programs.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

 

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”

Fort Atkinson, WI – October 13, 2016 –

The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties is hosting its 17^th annual United Way Chili Cook-off on Saturday, November 12^th from 6-8:00pm at the Fort Atkinson Municipal Building (30 N. Water Street).  The event will once again follow the Fort Atkinson Chamber of Commerce Holiday Parade.

“We are so excited to be hosting our 17^th annual United Way Chili Cook-off.  The cook-off continues to serve as a wonderful community event, as well as a fundraiser for our United Way campaign.  It also helps increase awareness for our causes and great partner agencies – many of whom participate as chili cookers.  We had over 400 community members attend last year, and we look forward to having even more join us this year,” states Megan Hartwick, United Way executive director.

United Way still has space available for a few participants to join in the event.  “We had eighteen delicious chili recipes last year and we hope to maintain that level of offering for our guests this year.  We were very lucky to have so many wonderful organizations and groups participate in the event last year – varying from partner agencies, to service organizations, to the Fort Atkinson High School culinary arts class.  The variety of participants, and the wonderful chilis they make, is part of what makes the cook-off such a great community event,” Hartwick adds.

Anyone interested in participating in the event can contact the United Way office directly or can print the entry form from the United Way website (found at www.ourunitedway.com) and mail it in.  United Way is also seeking individuals interested in volunteering their time to help with various tasks at the event.

“We have been very fortunate in past years to have a group of wonderful volunteers who assist with set-up, ticket & raffle sales, food sales, clean-up and the most fun volunteer job – judging!  Our volunteers play a vital role in the success of the event and really help things run smoothly.  We are always looking to welcome new volunteers, so anyone who is interested in helping with this fun event, or who is interested in tasting up to 18 different chili recipes, can reach out to our office or review the details on our volunteer platform.” Hartwick stated.

 

 

 
The event will offer a $4 sample cup which allows attendees the chance to taste any/all of the featured chili recipes from local organizations and individuals.  The event will also feature a food table offering hot dogs, popcorn and bottled water (all items will be $1), a 50/50 raffle, and a baked goods table sponsored by local Girl Scout Troop #2276.

 

“For the third consecutive year, Festival Foods is serving as the primary sponsor of the event and generously donating all of the items for our food table, which allows all funds raised to be applied directly towards our campaign fundraising efforts.  We are very grateful to have Festival Foods not only as a supporter for the chili cook-off, but also as a strong campaign workplace supporter,” Hartwick stated.  “We are also very excited to welcome back local Girl Scout troop #2276.  They’ve run such an incredible baked goods table for the past two years, and have been able to raise a great amount of money for their troop.  United Way is proud to support our local Girl Scouts and we greatly appreciate their participation.”
There are currently eight local organizations/individuals currently registered as chili cookers, with space for ten additional participants.  Awards will be given for 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd places, as well as Most Innovative and People’s Choice.  The People’s Choice award will be determined by votes cast by attendees, and volunteers serving as judges will determine the other winners.

 

Anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to visit the new online volunteer platform at http://www.volunteermain.com/need/detail/?need_id=215393 and review the details.  Any remaining questions about volunteer opportunities or inquiries regarding participation can be directed to Hartwick at the United Way at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 26 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need, as well as various community-enhancement pillar grant projects, and four community programs.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

 

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”

Fort Atkinson, WI – July 5, 2016 – The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties (UWJNWC) is seeking community input via an online survey and has extended the survey to remain open until Monday, July 11^th.  The UWJNWC is in the beginning stages of developing a three-year strategic to better focus their financial support and become a stronger community problem solver.

 

“Ultimately, our objective is to ensure that United Way support aligns with the major issues our community members are facing, so that we can best invest our resources to work with other community organizations to create successful children, stable families, and connected communities,” states Megan Findlay, executive director.  “Our United Way has been working very hard to gather as much information as possible to ensure our strategic plan is developed in the most effective way possible.  We believe a very important element of that is direct feedback from our communities.”

The 10-question survey can be found at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GBGKJBF and there is also a direct link to the survey on both the United Way website (www.ourunitedway.com) and the United Way Facebook page (found by searching “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties).  Any community member, who would like to submit a survey but does not have access to it online, can contact the United Way office to obtain a paper copy.  All responses are anonymous.

 

“We set out with a goal of obtaining 100 community member responses.  Right now, we have received 76, so we hope one last reminder to our communities will help us reach that goal and provide us a solid amount of feedback to review at our next two board meetings,” Findlay added.
Anyone with any questions about the survey or United Way’s strategic plan, can contact Megan Findlay directly at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

 

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

 

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”  For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – June 15, 2016 – The United Grove Community Garden, run through the United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties, has a six plots still available for community members to rent for the 2016 gardening season.

“The United Grove Community Garden is a wonderful community project that has grown so much throughout the past few years,” states Megan Findlay, United Way executive director.  “We are so grateful to be able to provide this opportunity for community members to harvest their own locally grown produce, especially for those individuals who wouldn’t otherwise have access to lawn space available for gardening.”

The garden, located between Grove and Maple Streets and just north of Park Street, has 48 total plots, with six plots still available for community member rental.  There are five plots, sized 10’x20’, and one plot, sized 10’x10’ available.  The cost for the larger plots is $20 and the smaller plot is $10.  The registration fee grants each gardener use of their designated plot through the 2016 growing season.  The garden also boasts a shed, built in 2013 by Sam Westby as part of an Eagle Scout project, filled with tools that many gardeners share with each other.

“There is a wonderful community of gardeners of all skill levels and expertise that take up residence each growing season at United Grove.  There are some extremely experienced gardeners who often donate their time and talents to helping those whose thumbs maybe aren’t quite so green,” Findlay stated.  “Deborah Gressle and Craig Ficenec, the two generous volunteer coordinators for the garden, have worked really hard to build up the community of gardeners and create a welcoming, beautiful space for people to work in.”

Anyone interested in renting one of the remaining garden plots, can contact Megan Findlay directly at 920.563.8880 orunitedway@idcnet.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need.  This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need.  Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com  or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.”  For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – March 18, 2016 – The United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties is set to launch its third annual pillar grant funding opportunity. The application cycle officially opens on Monday, March 21^st and closes on Monday, April 25^th at 5pm, with grant allocation decisions announced by Friday, May 13^th.

“Our United Way is so excited to launch our third round of pillar grant funding to our communities. Over the past two years, we have been able to allocate a total of $24.085 to 14 different community projects and programs through this funding opportunity,” states Megan Findlay, United Way executive director. “We are incredibly grateful that our campaign support over the past three years has allowed us to not only implement this unique opportunity, but also grow the support behind it.”

Pillar grant funding is a unique opportunity that differentiates from the traditional agency grants United Way provides, in that applicants are not required to be nonprofit organizations to be eligible for funding, although nonprofits are still able and encouraged to apply. The opportunity is open to any and all community members, organizations/groups, schools, etc. who may have a great community project idea or an existing program that they need additional funding for. The main requirement is that the project must be aimed at improving the health, education and/or financial independence of the communities which United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties supports. Also, to ensure proper use of grant funds, pillar grant payments are made on a reimbursement basis after the receipt of paid invoices.

“Two years ago, when this new funding opportunity was introduced, our United Way was looking for a way to get more involved with community projects and programs that extended beyond those we currently help support through our nonprofit partner agency grants,” Findlay states. “We were looking to increase the visibility of our support within our communities and to provide support to any parents, students or groups looking for a way to make their community enhancement project idea a reality.”<

Some example of the past 14 projects that have received funding are: mobile railyard equipment through Fort Healthcare; scholarships for local children to participate in the Working for Whitewater’s Wellness Fit Kid Shuffle; improvements/additions to school and community gardens; student fees, speaker fees, and material costs for the Jefferson County Connections Youth Leadership Conference; Parents Cafes for Jefferson County Head Start; and many more.

“The feedback we’ve received regarding the pillar grant opportunity as been overwhelmingly positive. I think our donors appreciate that as we receive additional campaign support, we’ve looked at ways to grow and expand our focus, and I think our communities appreciate a new way to get involved with United Way,” Findlay added. “We are so eager to review the applications we receive for 2016, and are so excited to continue to support our communities in new, innovative ways.”

Anyone interested in applying for a 2016 pillar grant, can contact Megan Findlay directly at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need. This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need. Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.” For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – January 4, 2016 – The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties has concluded its annual “Donation Sweepstakes,” generously underwritten by Fort Healthcare and Jones Dairy Farm. The sweepstakes was run from September 1st through December 11th. Each new donor who donated at least $25 or any donor who increased their previous year’s gift by $25 or more was entered into the sweepstakes. This year, the winners were once again presented electronic goods.

Pictured is the winner of the Kindle Fire, Megan Gang, a 6th grade language arts teacher at the Fort Atkinson Middle School. Pictured with Gang, from left to right are Dani Hopkins, Director of Human Resources for the School District of Fort Atkinson, Megan Findlay, Executive Director of the United Way of Walworth & Jefferson Counties, and Dave Geiger, Principal at Luther Elementary School and also a United Way board member.

The other three winners included Andy Fuchs from Valero (laptop), and Kaycee Welke (high definition television), and Barbara Lee (iPad) both from Fort Healthcare.

“There were a total of 556 individuals who qualified for the sweepstakes this year, beating last year’s total of 530, which was also a large increase from the 2013 campaign. The sweepstakes incentive directly translates into great increased support for our campaign,” states Findlay. “We are very grateful for each of these donors as well as the ongoing support of Fort Healthcare and Jones Dairy Farm, which allows us to continue this exciting incentive.”

The 2015 campaign is still accepting donations. Anyone interested in supporting United Way’s critical grant funding to local nonprofit agencies and community programs, can contact Findlay directly at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com. Donations can also be made online at www.ourunitedway.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need. This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need. Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.” For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.

Fort Atkinson, WI – January 4, 2016 – The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties has concluded its annual “Donation Sweepstakes,” generously underwritten by Fort Healthcare and Jones Dairy Farm. The sweepstakes was run from September 1st through December 11th. Each new donor who donated at least $25 or any donor who increased their previous year’s gift by $25 or more was entered into the sweepstakes. This year, the winners were once again presented electronic goods.

Pictured is the winner of the Kindle Fire, Megan Gang, a 6th grade language arts teacher at the Fort Atkinson Middle School. Pictured with Gang, from left to right are Dani Hopkins, Director of Human Resources for the School District of Fort Atkinson, Megan Findlay, Executive Director of the United Way of Walworth & Jefferson Counties, and Dave Geiger, Principal at Luther Elementary School and also a United Way board member.

The other three winners included Andy Fuchs from Valero (laptop), and Kaycee Welke (high definition television), and Barbara Lee (iPad) both from Fort Healthcare.

“There were a total of 556 individuals who qualified for the sweepstakes this year, beating last year’s total of 530, which was also a large increase from the 2013 campaign. The sweepstakes incentive directly translates into great increased support for our campaign,” states Findlay. “We are very grateful for each of these donors as well as the ongoing support of Fort Healthcare and Jones Dairy Farm, which allows us to continue this exciting incentive.”

The 2015 campaign is still accepting donations. Anyone interested in supporting United Way’s critical grant funding to local nonprofit agencies and community programs, can contact Findlay directly at 920.563.8880 or unitedway@idcnet.com. Donations can also be made online at www.ourunitedway.com.

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The United Way of Jefferson and North Walworth Counties supports 32 local agencies that provide critical health and human services to those in need. This network of helping services can be described as a “safety net” for those in our midst in need. Whether it is transitional housing, literacy education, after-school programs and education, health and dental care, end of life care, mentoring programs, job training or disaster relief, the United Way identifies the greatest needs in our community and helps to fund agencies that can meet those needs.

For more information about our local United Way, you may visit the website at www.ourunitedway.com or “like” the Facebook page at “United Way of Jefferson & North Walworth Counties.” For details regarding the United Way’s online volunteer tool, please visit www.volunteermain.com.