Sioux Empire United Way celebrated a successful fundraising campaign at their annual Thank You Event.
The 2023 Campaign total is $9,610,118 on a goal of $ 9,601,778.
600 area businesses and nearly 17,000 individual givers supported Sioux Empire United Way’s 2023 Campaign. The dollars raised during this year’s campaign will fund 80 different programs that help children, vulnerable adults and people in crisis.
“Funding these programs is our top priority,” said Campaign Chair Monie Siemonsma. “I am continually humbled by the dedication to Sioux Empire United Way that this community shows year after year – as well as the hard work of our volunteers who make our campaign possible.”
Awards presented at this year's event included:
Award Categories
Brent Weiler Bulldog Award - Awarded to a Team 2 Sioux Empire United Way volunteer who has shown determination and persistence in working with small businesses to achieve campaign success. Winner : Ashley Janish
Heart Club Philanthropist Award - This award is given to a Heart Club member or company who has demonstrated active involvement and has also encouraged or influenced others to contribute. Winner: Tom Heller
Rich Garry Rookie of the Year Award - This award is given to a first-time Sioux Empire United Way volunteer who has stepped up and made a tremendous impact in their role, helping to fulfill the mission of Sioux Empire United Way. Winner: Jeremy Roemen
Volunteer of the Year Award - This award is given to the volunteer who selflessly and generously gives of his or her time and talents to help fulfill the mission of the Sioux Empire United Way. Winner: Brenda Kibbe
Larry Oppold Memorial Award - This award is given to a human services professional for outstanding dedication to his or her work and for demonstrating the qualities that Larry believed in during his life. Larry was a thoughtful, caring, and compassionate person who acted as an advocate for those in need. Winner: Robin Prunty
Helen E. (Oppold) Blair Memorial Award - This award is to be presented to an individual whose work in human services, law enforcement, education, or church based fields towards child abuse prevention and early intervention is exemplary. Winner: Amy Carter
David Birkeland Memorial Award - This award is given to the business or professional leader who most exemplifies David Birkeland’s involvement in United Way and our community. A tribute to David reads: His smile invited conversation, his manner put strangers at ease, his style engendered trust and his humor broke down barriers. Dave was a servant leader whose example was an expression of his spirit. Winner: Chuck Hendrickson
Business of the Year Award - This award is given to the company or organization that has greatly benefited United Way through its generosity and/or its employees’ involvement. Three awards may be presented each year.
Winners: Aerostar, Dakota Vascular, and Journey Group