Sioux Empire United Way (SEUW) celebrated the power of community at its annual Thank You Event, announcing a total of $9,302,662 raised during the 2026 Campaign, exceeding its goal of $9,264,349. The event also honored outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership and service made a lasting impact this year.
The celebration recognized the collective impact of donors, volunteers, nonprofit partners, and businesses whose generosity and dedication made this achievement possible. Funds raised will be invested in local programs focused on improving the lives of children, vulnerable adults, and people in crisis.
“This milestone is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together around a shared purpose,” said Lisa Romkema, CEO of Sioux Empire United Way. “We are incredibly grateful to our donors, volunteers, business partners, and nonprofit leaders who show up year after year to invest in our community. Surpassing our goal speaks to the extraordinary generosity of the Sioux Empire.”
Tony Nour, 2026 Campaign Chair, echoed that gratitude.
“Serving as Campaign Chair has truly been an honor and privilege,” said Nour. “It’s been amazing to witness the generosity of our business community, the dedication of our donors and the resolute commitment of the volunteers who believe in building a stronger Sioux Empire. Exceeding our campaign goal is something we can all be proud of. This success belongs to every person and organization who contributed, advocated, and led.”
Annual Award Recipients
As part of the event, Sioux Empire United Way recognized individuals and organizations whose leadership and service went above and beyond this year:
- Brent Eliason – Larry Oppold Memorial Award
- Amanda Liebl – Helen E. (Oppold) Blair Memorial Award
- Ryan Dutton – Rich Garry Rookie of the Year Award
- Smithfield Foods – Business of the Year Award
- Eide Bailly – Business of the Year Award
- IRA Financial – Business of the Year Award
- Lucas Holden – Brent Weiler Bulldog Award Campaign Volunteer of the Year
- Anna Jankord – Volunteer United Volunteer of the Year Award
- Lynn Pudwill – Community Impact Volunteer of the Year Award
- Vicki Stewart – David Birkeland Memorial Award
Each award recipient was celebrated for embodying the spirit of United Way through leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
About Sioux Empire United Way
Founded in 1929, Sioux Empire United Way's mission is to lead, sustain and nurture a unified, effective response to community needs. The organization serves an estimated 1 out of every 3 individuals each year in our community through over 70 local programs. Contributions stay local, benefiting the four-county area of Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha, and Turner. Sioux Empire United Way raises around $9 million each year, thanks to contributions from nearly 16,000 individuals and 600 businesses.