Sioux Empire United Way is excited to highlight our Director of Strategic Philanthropy, Rachael Alwin.
Rachael was originally born and raised in Plymouth, Minnesota! She went on to earn degrees in Political Science and Psychology from Minnesota State University, Mankato. After graduation, she was a Committee Legislative Assistant at the Minnesota State Senate.
At Sioux Empire United Way, Rachael focuses on creating and cultivating relationships with major and planned givers, assists Alexis de Tocqueville Society campaign volunteers, and helps individuals leave a legacy through a planned gift to Sioux Empire United Way. Rachael also oversees the Volunteer United group dedicated to providing hands-on support to our local nonprofit partners.
To learn more about her, be sure to read our interview below!
What does your day-to-day work look like? No two days are the same! I work closely with generous individuals and community-minded businesses to align their philanthropic goals with high-impact initiatives. My days are filled with intentional conversations over coffee or lunch, strategic stewardship, and a sprinkle of managing our Volunteer United branch to create hands-on opportunities for community engagement. At the heart of it all is building meaningful relationships that lead to lasting impact.
What's your reason for working at SEUW? I’ve been in various fundraising and public affairs roles within the government and public service sector since I graduated college. I’ve found that there is something so fulfilling about working for an organization that truly lives up to their mission, and where over 98% of the funds I help raise stay local.
How long have you worked at SEUW? Two years this August!
What’s something you do at work that makes your job more fun? Check-ins with my coworkers – I am beyond lucky to work with an incredible team of women who I’m honored to call my friends. I don’t think many people can say that!
If you had to describe your job using only a movie title, what would it be? Everything Everywhere All at Once – Chaotic and beautiful, full of heart and mind-bending complexity, just like strategic philanthropy on any given Tuesday. Juggling donors, strategy, legacy giving, business partnerships, community needs, and still making it all feel personal and mission driven.
What’s one thing you love about our workplace culture? I love the conversations we have together – about anything and everything!
What’s one skill you’d love to learn? I’d love to learn how to play a unique instrument well, like the harp or viola. I’d love a fun party trick!
What’s the weirdest or funniest job you’ve ever had? Party host at Big Thrill Factory in Minnetonka, MN.
If you could swap jobs with anyone in the company for a week, who would it be and why? I’d swap jobs with Carmen, our Finance & Database Director, to see what it’s like to be a data driven Excel wiz for once. 😉
What are some of your favorite hobbies or what do you like to do for fun? Reading, baking/cooking, playing with my dogs, & traveling with my husband, Hans.
What’s the last show you binge-watched? Shrinking on Apple TV.
What’s your dream travel destination? Japan.
If you could have any superpower for a day, what would it be and why? Mind-reading – because I love to know everything about everything!
If you were an action figure, what accessories would you come with? A book, my two dog sidekicks, a long statement coat, and some fun, knee-high boots!
