United Way of Cass-Clay 2014 Annual Report to the Community
TABLE OF CONTENTS WHO WE ARE
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Our Leadership Board of Trustees Our Team Our Mission & Vision Our Investment Strategy Top 50 Corporate Partners & Sponsors Financial Highlights Community Investment Volunteers
4
4-5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
OUR INVESTMENTS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 14 Basic Needs Investments UNITED for Jefferson Neighborhood UNITED for Education Collaborative Imagination Library Literacy Program Community Investment Results and Statistics School Supply Drive Day of Caring Education that Works Partnership Workforce Development Initiative 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program
14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-25 26-27 28-29 29 30-31
OUR INVESTORS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 32 Women’s Leadership Council Tocqueville Society Investors and Volunteers Campaign Volunteer Leadership Campaign Events BE THE ONE Campaign Award Recipients LIVE UNITED Billboard Sponsors LIVE UNITED T-Shirt Day
32-33 35 36-37 38 39 40-41 42-43
WHAT IF THE CHILDREN LIVING IN POVERTY TODAY COULD HAVE OPPORTUNITIES TO GET THE SKILLS THEY NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL AS ADULTS? That is United Way’s goal. Our role is to slow that cycle of poverty. Research tells us that we can do that by making specific investments in Education, Income Stability, Health and Basic Needs such as food, shelter and safety. With your help, we’re making those investments now. This strategy gives us an opportunity to focus on sharing with our community how gifts to United Way are actually investments that have a return. When people invest with United Way, they should expect results. Our team and Community Partners are proud to highlight these results in this document and we hope you enjoy reading about how your investments are creating measureable change. At the heart of United Way is helping people–it always has been, and always will be. Our vision is that people in need will have opportunities to live up to their full potential. We know that when we work together, this can and will happen for our community.
Sher Thomsen President United Way of Cass-Clay
SERVING AS THE 2014 CAMPAIGN CHAIR HAS BEEN AN ABSOLUTE LABOR OF LOVE... To work with the United Way team and all of the volunteers is something that I will remember for the rest of my life.
I APPRECIATE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LEAD UNITED WAY THROUGH THIS CHANGE IN INVESTMENT STRATEGY... On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I want to say thank you to the people who support United Way. Our commitment to you – our investors – is that we are thoughtful and objective in our decisions, always keeping our focus on being good stewards of your invested dollars. Our Board fully supports our investment strategy that emphasizes collaborative impact and measured outcomes. We know that when we measure the value that our donor dollars create in the community, these dollars become investments in change and build a better future for us all. Mark Jensen 2014 United Way Board of Trustees Chair Chemistry Department, Concordia College
When I was asked to serve, I said yes because I passionately believe in United Way’s mission—their work impacts every aspect of my professional life and this entire community. I am proud to say that together we met the 2014 goal. Thank you to the volunteers who give from your heart— that is what makes United Way successful. Reaching the campaign goal is not the end of our work, it is the beginning. Raising money in itself doesn’t create change. Reaching the goal means that we are able to strategically invest in programs that slow the cycle of poverty, close the achievement gap, and give our communities’ children the opportunity to have a good life. With United Way, we give people the ability to feed their families, to be role models for their children, and to support themselves. I truly believe we are not giving a hand out— but a hand up and a foundation to build their lives upon. That is what LIVING UNITED means to me. Sheriff Paul D. Laney 2014 United Way Campaign Chair Cass County
Laura & Jordan Jensen
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
CHAIR Mark Jensen, Concordia College CHAIR ELECT Louise Dardis, FHI360
David Berg, American Crystal Sugar Company Thomas Budan, John Deere Electronic Solutions Mary Jo Hotzler, Forum Communications Susan Jarvis, Sanford Health Michelle Killoran, Scheels, TREASURER Denise Kolpack, Blue Cross Blue Shield ND Sheriff Paul D. Laney, Cass County, CAMPAIGN CHAIR Craig Lemieux, Hornbacher’s Chris Lerum, Intelligent InSites, VICE CHAIR Rock Messerschmidt, Bell State Bank & Trust Todd Olson, Gate City Bank Erin Prochnow, YWCA of Cass-Clay Ev Quigley, Retired Joel Vettel, City of Fargo
6 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
OUR TEAM
Sherri Thomsen President
Travis Christopher Resource Development Director
Kristina Hein Marketing & Brand Management Director
Thomas Hill Community Impact Director
Sarah Sannes Resource Development Manager
Tiffany McShane Resource Development Project Manager
Sarah Kennedy Kelly Rotar Communications Project Community Impact Manager Manager
Summer Hanson Finance & Administration Director
Katty Zakariah Rachael Lawson Accounting & Technology Executive Assistant Specialist
LIVE UNITED
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OUR MISSION & VISION
MORE THAN CHARITY - WE ARE CHANGE WHO WE ARE
United Way of Cass-Clay works at the intersection of the private, public, philanthropic and nonprofit sectors. We are community builders, leaders, unifiers, and champions. We are connectors and information resource brokers. We inspire philanthropic investments that are volunteer-driven.
OUR MISSION
United Way connects people to people, needs to resources, and experts to advocates to improve lives and advance the common good throughout Cass and Clay Counties.
OUR VISION
United Way’s investment strategy is about helping one person at a time while focusing on improving systems that help all of us succeed. Together we invest in Education, Income Stability, Health and Basic Needs.
At United Way we believe the dollars we raise are more than charity, they are investments in the economic development and well-being of our entire region. These investments impact the future of every individual and family in our local community.
NONPROFIT
United Way of Cass-Clay PUBLIC
8 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
PRIVATE
PHILANTHROPIC
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
OUR INVESTMENT STRATEGY
INVESTING IN UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY MEANS INVESTING IN THE BUILDING BLOCKS FOR A GOOD LIFE PREPARING CHILDREN & YOUTH FOR SUCCESS IN SCHOOL & LIFE PROMOTING FINANCIAL STABILITY & INDEPENDENCE
EMPOWERING PEOPLE TO LEAD HEALTHY LIVES
BASIC NEEDS FOOD
SAFETY
SHELTER
VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS
1 in 8 people in Cass and Clay Counties live in poverty–that’s 28,000 people and 6,000 are children. Every day, United Way is committed to slowing the cycle of poverty. This commitment helps thousands of people now, while strengthening our community for generations to come.
LIVE UNITED
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CORPORATE PARTNERS PREMIERE SPONSORS—LIVE UNITED PARTNERS
PRESENTING SPONSORS
EXCLUSIVE EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR TOP 50 CORPORATE INVESTORS 1. Scheels Corporation 2. Sanford Health 3. John Deere Electronic Solutions 4. Border States Electric 5. Bell State Bank & Trust 6. Eide Bailly LLP 7. Butler Machinery 8. American Crystal Sugar Company 9. Microsoft 10. Hornbacher’s 11. U.S. Bank 12. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota 13. North Dakota State University
14. Gate City Bank 15. The Forum of Fargo - Moorhead 16. Titan Machinery Inc. 17. Fargo Public Schools 18. Sammons Financial Group 19. Wells Fargo 20. Doosan Infracore Construction Equipment & Bobcat Company 21. Discovery Benefits 22. Dawson Insurance 23. Cargill, Inc. 24. Concordia College 25. TMI Hospitality, Inc. 26. CoreLink Administrative Solutions
27. Caterpillar Reman Drive Train 28. Case New Holland - Fargo Plant 29. Roers 30. AgCountry Farm Credit Services 31. Bank of the West 32. Alerus Financial 33. Pepsi Beverages Company 34. Swanson Health Products 35. Dakota Supply Group 36. Warner and Company Insurance 37. Xcel Energy 38. Cornerstone Bank 39. Corwin Wilson Management LLP
40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50.
Cardinal IG Cass County Vogel Law Firm General Equipment & Supplies Essentia Health Minnesota State University Moorhead City of Fargo Nodak Mutual Insurance Company DakTech, Inc. Otter Tail Corporation Bremer Bank
CORPORATE & EVENT SPONSORS Bell State Bank & Trust, Choice Financial Group, Forum Communications Company, Microsoft, Park Co. Realtors, Roers, Xcel Energy
10 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Thanks to our investors, we exceeded the 2014 goal of $5.5 million and raised a total of $5,505,843 for our community.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT 8%
59%
INDIVIDUAL GIVING
SPECIAL EVENTS
Our investments continue to be centered on our strategic priority areas of Education, Income Stability, Health and Basic Needs such as food, shelter and safety.
26%
CORPORATE GIVING
7%
Pages 14-31 highlight how our investments are creating measurable change in our community.
GRANTS, SPONSORSHIPS & INVESTMENT INCOME
COMMUNITY INVESTMENTS
FINANCE COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS CHAIR: Michelle Killoran, Scheels Dan Armbrust, Dawson Insurance Brian Becker, D&M Industries Randy Johnson, Titan Machinery Kevin Jordre, Bremer Bank Michelle Schumacher, Microsoft Wendy Simek, O’Day Management Gene Taylor, NDSU Becky Walen, Bell State Bank & Trust
8%
FUND DEVELOPMENT
4%
MANAGEMENT
88% UNITED WAY INITIATIVES & COMMUNITY PARTNERS
LIVE UNITED
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COMMUNITY INVESTMENT COMMUNITY INVESTMENT COMMITTEE VOLUNTEERS Mark Jensen, Concordia College, CHAIR Luke Brodeur, Hope Lutheran Church Josh Malnourie, Noridian Pam O’Neill, Essentia Health Eddie Sheeley, Choice Financial Group
Tom Budan, John Deere Electronic Solutions Chris Lerum, Intelligent InSites Kim Busch, TMI Hospitality Mike Prekel, Holiday Inn April Olson-Mata, Goldmark Properties
The individuals on the Community Investment Committee provide the volunteer leadership needed to make crucial decisions as to how and where dollars are invested locally, and ensure investments align with our strategic priorities of Education, Income Stability, Health and Basic Needs. Each year, the volunteers on the Community Investment Committee lead a team of Community Investment Review Panel volunteers to carefully review applications and visit the locations of the Community Partners applying for United Way funding to help propose investment decisions to the United Way Board of Trustees. Any United Way investor is invited to volunteer to serve on a review panel and 83 volunteers participated in 2014.
12 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
“Our community has a vast amount of needs that can only be addressed by our area non-profits. Serving as a Community Investment Review Panel volunteer, and now a member on the Community Investment Committee, has been an incredible opportunity because it has allowed me to be actively engaged in investing donor dollars. It has shown me just how great of an impact United Way has on the needs of our community.” -Luke Brodeur, Community Investment Committee Volunteer
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
IS A REAL GAME CHANGER IN OUR COMMUNITY. “ EDUCATION EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION GIVES US LONG TERM RESULTS.
”
THESE KIDS ARE SUCCESSFUL, THEY GRADUATE, AND HAVE CAREERS.
Because of a partnership with United Way, Kate was able to be matched with a tutor to help her be a successful reader by third grade.
BASIC NEEDS COMMUNITY PARTNERS
American Red Cross, Dakotas Region Education & Training Services Emergency Services Barnesville Area Helpers Block Nurse Program Catholic Charities North Dakota Guardianship Services Churches United for the Homeless Emergency Shelter & Services Community of Care One Stop Service Center Creative Care for Reaching Independence (CCRI, Inc.) Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services Independent by Design Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton Youth Services Youth Programs & Scholarships FirstLink 2-1-1 Information & Crisis Services Volunteer Center Services FM Coalition for Homeless Persons Coordinated Referral & Single Point of Entry FM Dorothy Day House of Hospitality Emergency Shelter & Services Food Pantry Fraser, Ltd. Stepping Stones Resource Center GFA (Guardian, Fiduciary & Advocacy) Services Guardianship Services HERO, Healthcare Equipment Recycling Organization Affordable Healthcare Supplies Hospice of the Red River Valley Journey’s Program Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity Family Support Services Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership Rainbow Bridge Safe Exchange & Visitation Center Transitional Housing Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota Kids Legal Aid Work
BASIC NEEDS COMMUNITY PARTNERS Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota Caregiver Support & Respite Services Guardianship Services Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota Gambler’s Choice Great Plains Food Bank Senior Companion Program New Life Center Emergency Shelter & Services North Dakota Autism Center AuSome Kids After School Program North Dakota Caring Foundation, Inc. Caring for Children Rape & Abuse Crisis Center Domestic Violence Services Legal Advocacy Sexual Assault Services REACH (Rural Enrichment & Counseling Headquarters) Basic Needs & Crisis Services Volunteer Services Rebuilding Together, Inc. Rebuilding Together Fargo-Moorhead Red River Children’s Advocacy Center Forensic Interviews Red River Valley Dental Access Project Urgent Walk-In Clinic RSVP+ Volunteer Program Salvation Army Emergency Assistance Hot Meals Sexual Abuse Treatment Program Sexual Abuse Treatment Program ShareHouse, Inc. Women’s Empowerment (WE) Program
Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Presentation Partners in Housing SouthEastern North Dakota Community Action Agency Youth Individual Development Accounts (IDA) South Central Adult Services Council Prescription Assistance Program The Arc of Cass County Arc Buddies The Arc West Central Family Connections TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics Academy Special Needs Program Vocational Training Center Center Based Employment West Fargo Park District Youth Programs & Scholarships YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties Aquatics Education Open Doors Scholarships Youthworks Street Outreach Program YWCA Cass Clay Emergency Shelter & Services Permanent Supportive Housing Transitional Housing
UNITED WAY INVESTS IN BASIC NEEDS THROUGH THESE FOCUS AREAS FOOD
SHELTER
SAFETY VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS LIVE UNITED
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UNITED FOR JEFFERSON NEIGHBORHOOD
In response to a high number of referrals to Cass County Social Services stemming from the Jefferson Neighborhood, a group of community leaders asked United Way to convene a group of nonprofit professionals working with individuals and families in this neighborhood. The Jefferson Neighborhood is located in Fargo and refers to the area of Main Avenue (North) to 13th Avenue South (South) and University Drive (East) to 25th Street South (West).
UNITED FOR JEFFERSON NEIGHBORHOOD GOALS PREPARE children entering kindergarten for academic success
COMMUNITY PARTNERS
African Initiative for Progress (AIP) Big Brother Big Sister Cass County Social Services CHARISM City of Fargo Fargo Park District Fargo Police Department Jefferson Elementary Jefferson Area Neighborhood Association Nokomis Child Care Center Somali Community Development of ND
CREATE safe, stable and affordable housing options SUPPORT culturally appropriate programming for residents IMPROVE neighborhood safety
To support the goals, United Way has invested in several core strategies: • Parent engagement and literacy programs for targeted families • Child care scholarships for income-eligible families to receive quality early childhood education • Programs designed to increase attendance for identified students • School-based mentor programs for students in need
16 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
UNITED FOR JEFFERSON NEIGHBORHOOD As part of our dedication to investing in educational opportunities, United Way is partnering with the Check & Connect program in Jefferson Elementary School. This program is showing great improvements for many participating students’ attendance outcomes. Every student who is participating in Check & Connect has had a decrease in at least one of these four categories: excused absences, unexcused absences, tardies and behaviors. For some participants, there is a reduction in all areas.
RESULTS
67%
DROP IN EXCUSED ABSENCES
73%
DROP IN UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
78% “‘You’re the one who always has my back,’ one student said to me and I believe it’s the perfect description of the Check & Connect program. The elementary students I work with are showing awesome resilience and commitment as they work hard to get to school on time, even when they have to do this on their own. I see the kids’ faces light up when they achieve a goal and it makes my day. It is wonderful to witness so much pride forming in the students and their school due to these successes.” Alaina Johnson CHARISM Check and Connect Mentor
DROP IN TARDIES
54%
DROP IN BEHAVIOR REPORTS LIVE UNITED
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SHELTER
United Way’s funding strategy is focused, innovative and research driven. We invest in local non-profits focused on developing a coordinated strategy to tackle the challenges facing our young people. We invest in opportunities for children to attend high quality early childhood education experiences that ensure they are prepared for their first day of kindergarten. We invest in school and after school programs that create safe, engaging places for struggling or at-risk children to learn. Finally, we invest in parents to teach them the skills they need to help their children and families succeed.
UNITED WAY INVESTS IN EDUCATION THROUGH THESE FOCUS AREAS EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION
OUT OF SCHOOL TIME PROGRAMS
FAMILY MENTAL HEALTH
PARENT/ GUARDIAN EDUCATION
UNITED FOR EDUCATION
UNITED FOR EDUCATION COMMUNITY PARTNERS Boy Scouts of America, Northern Lights Council Youth Development Boys & Girls Club of the Red River Valley / Youth Commission Boys & Girls Club Programming/Youth Commission Scholarship Program Catholic Charities of North Dakota Structured Psychotherapy for Adolescents Responding to Chronic Stress (SPARCS) CHARISM Build a Neighborhood, Achieve a Dream Children’s Consultation Network Children’s Consultation Network Moorhead Area Public Schools Jump Start Fargo Public Schools Even Start Family Literacy Program Fargo Cass Public Health Fargo Cass Nurse Family Partnership Girl Scouts – Dakota Horizons Girl Scout Leadership Experience Lakes & Prairies Community Action Partnership Child Care Aware Summer School Head Start Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota Youth Court
North Dakota State University Upward Bound South East Education Cooperative Gearing Up for Kindergarten North Dakota Reading Corps SouthEastern North Dakota Community Action Agency (SENDCAA) SENDCAA Child Care Center Solutions Behavioral Healthcare Professionals Incredible Years TNT Kid’s Fitness & Gymnastics Academy Mobile Fitness Labs The Village Family Service Center Big Brothers/Big Sisters Counseling Services Nokomis Child Care Center Truancy Intervention Program YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties YMCA Child Care Scholarships Youthworks of North Dakota Brief Family Counseling Program YWCA Cass Clay A Child’s World LIVE UNITED 19
IMAGINATION LIBRARY
United Way partners with the Dolly Parton Foundation to provide children ages birth through five with a free book in the mail each month and spark a love for reading. Our partnership provides children in Cass and Clay counties the possibility to build a home library of 60 books before they enter kindergarten! As parents are a child’s first teacher, Imagination Library gives them a fun and easy way to get involved with their child’s early education. Studies show that 97% of parents surveyed report that the program has encouraged them to read more to and with their children. United Way was the first to partner with Imagination Library in North Dakota. Since 2003, it has grown to 41 affiliates in North Dakota and 38 in Minnesota.
20 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
11TH YEAR
9,019 CHILDREN
105,082 BOOKS
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
EACH MONTH, AN AVERAGE OF 9,000 CHILDREN RECEIVE A BOOK IN THE MAIL THANKS TO UNITED WAY INVESTORS.
RESEARCH: COMMUNITY NEEDS Children who receive quality early childhood education are less likely to require special education
The average reading & math
EDUCATION
ACHIEVEMENT GAP BETWEEN
50%
ALL KIDS & KIDS IN POVERTY IS
15%
across our local school districts
SAVING AMERICA BILLIONS
IN ANNUAL EDUCATION COSTS
Local research shows our community is only meeting
50% of the demand for child care
POVERTY IS DEFINED AS
INCOME STABILITY
a family of 4 living on less than $24,250/year
FAILURE TO READ BY
3RD GRADE is linked to
Children from low income families
HEAR 30 MILLION
FEWER WORDS
by the time they turn
higher rates of school dropout
3 YEARS OLD which suppresses individual earning potential
1 IN 10 KIDS IN NORTH DAKOTA & MINNESOTA
HEALTH
NEARLY 1 IN 4
AMERICANS
suffer from behavioral health issues each year
making them
have experienced 3 or more adverse childhood experiences such as hunger, homelessness or domestic violence more likely to suffer from depression or anxiety
3X
1 IN 8 LOCAL PEOPLE
BASIC NEEDS
25%
of our local adult homeless population had their first experience with homelessness
AS A CHILD
1 IN 8 LOCAL PEOPLE
in Cass & Clay counties are living in poverty
6,000 ARE CHILDREN
56%
OF PARENTS with school-age children experiencing homelessness report learning or school related problems
RESULTS: UNITED WAY INVESTMENTS IN ACTION Children receiving scholarships for quality child care improved on basic academic skills at
82% of parents in kindergarten readiness programs reported it positively influenced their relationship with their child
9 OUT OF 10 KIDS PAIRED
WITH READING TUTORS
2X
ARE NOW READING ON TRACK BY 3RD GRADE
the rate of other children
803
1,590 INDIVIDUALS
had access to showers and laundry services during daytime programs at local shelters
because of rent and utility assistance
77
LOCAL YOUNG ADULTS UNDER THE AGE OF 18
55% 1,100+ AT RISK YOUTH had access to basic needs such as FOOD
SHELTER & SAFETY
were impacted by out of school programs
decrease in disruptive behaviors from their child after family counseling & education
to low income individuals in Cass County
STABLE HOUSING
received counseling and therapy services to address chronic stress and increase functioning and success
60%
CHILDREN
were prepared by volunteers returning
MAINTAINED
ATTAIN AND MAINTAIN EMPLOYMENT
9,152
384 TAX RETURNS $785,543
FAMILIES
While these services may seem minor, they are crucial to empowering individuals to
Parents reported a
1,427 MEN AND WOMEN
HAD ACCESS TO COUNSELING SERVICES to address behavioral health issues
OF CLIENTS DEMONSTRATED improved functioning and reduction of symptoms following treatment
1,413 CHILDREN FROM 24 different schools received backpacks full of food
83%
of parents whose children received backpacks reported a positive change in health
70%
of teachers with students receiving backpacks of food saw an increase in academics
TO ENSURE THEY WEREN’T HUNGRY OVER THE WEEKEND
37,300 BACKPACKS full of food
were given to students last year
US HAVE ALL THE SCHOOL SUPPLIES OUR DAUGHTER NEEDS AND A GOOD BACKPACK. “ ITSHEHELPS DOESN’T FEEL LEFT OUT OR MISSING ITEMS FOR SCHOOL. THIS PROGRAM IS AMAZING AND HELPS US TO HELP OUR CHILD FEEL GOOD ABOUT GOING TO SCHOOL. THANKS FOR YOUR HELP. ” -PARENT OF A SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE RECIPIENT
SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE Our School Supply Drive provides students in need with a new backpack and gradeappropriate school supplies so they can start school in the fall confident, ready to learn and prepared to succeed. In 2014, we partnered with hundreds of businesses and individuals and engaged more than 450 volunteers to pack and distribute the backpacks filled with school supplies. BACKPACKS DISTRIBUTED BY GRADE 1,400 Grades K-2 1,333 Grades 3-5 1,267 Grades 6-8 1,175 Grades 9-12 TOP 5 SCHOOLS TO RECEIVE BACKPACKS 198 Ellen Hopkins Elementary (Moorhead) 186 Moorhead High School (Moorhead) 183 Horizon Middle School (Moorhead) 172 Fargo South High School (Fargo) 166 Cheney Middle School (West Fargo)
5,175
STUDENTS EQUIPPED
48
LOCAL SCHOOLS
14
DAYS
82% of families utilized the federal free and reduced lunch program (self-reported)
VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE
CHAIR: Pat Kotta, Gate City Bank Penny Crowder, Dawson Insurance Barb Grabar, Fraser, Ltd. Brook Spaulding, Park Christian School Kevin Spaulding, Summit Group Software Bradley Storm, West Fargo Public Schools
450+
VOLUNTEERS For the second year, children from a local day care had a lemonade stand and used the proceeds to buy new school supplies.
LIVE UNITED
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DAY OF CARING
23RD YEAR
1,870
The 23rd Annual Day of Caring was a RECORD BREAKING event! 1,870 individuals from businesses volunteered their time to assist 405 senior citizens in their homes along with 10 non-profit organizations. Local seniors requested help with basic housework, from prepping for winter by raking and mowing to dusting inside. They enjoyed an afternoon of companionship as well as help from the caring United Way volunteers.
VOLUNTEERS
405
SENIORS
26 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
EDUCATION THAT WORKS Superintendents of the local schools in Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo are collaborating and working with United Way of Cass-Clay and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation to enhance K-12 curriculum with project-based learning. This includes a stronger focus on 21st Century Skills and measuring the “4 Cs” communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity. Education That Works has already impacted local students and educators. This summer, 3 events were hosted locally. Because of the Education that Works partnership, nearly 450 teachers had the opportunity to see the “4 C’s” in action at local businesses during a Summer Tech Camp. In July, over 75 teachers were trained on how to engage students in relevant and authentic work through project-based learning. This summer, 90 middle school students from 7 area schools participated in a student tech camp that paired them with mentors from local business to help them create digital projects such as apps and websites.
COLLABORATING PARTNERS
“As someone looking to recruit and hire successful employees, I support this initiative 100%. While it is important for a new employee to have knowledge, they also need to know how to interact well. Communication, collaboration, and project teamwork are necessary skill sets for a successful employee.” - Tina Amerman, Human Resources Director Doosan-Bobcat Company
4 C’S—21ST CENTURY SKILLS COMMUNICATION Sharing thoughts, questions, ideas & solutions
CRITICAL THINKING
Looking at problems in new ways & linking learning across subjects & disciplines
28 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
COLLABORATION Working together to reach a goal
CREATIVITY
Trying new approaches to get things done
Students stacked up to thank Xcel Energy as a leading sponsor of the Education that Works partnership. WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT As the region consistently boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country, workforce presents a challenge to continued economic growth and prosperity. When connecting with over 200 local businesses, it was discovered that there is a serious shortage of highly trained and highly qualified individuals. In addition, there are factors impacting our workforce such as availability of child care, transportation and affordable housing, which are all community issues United Way addresses.
COLLABORATING PARTNERS
In response to that challenge, five organizations, along with a diverse range of businesses and higher education organizations, have come together to sponsor a first-ever regional comprehensive workforce study to assess the current state of workforce development, training, recruitment and attainment in our region. Why is United Way involved? Creating opportunities for people to find jobs and be prepared to enter the workforce allows them to care for themselves and their families which fits our investment strategy and focus areas in Income Stability.
Representatives from all five partners coordinated a media event to announce the Workforce Development Collaboration and upcoming regional study to the greater community. LIVE UNITED
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35 UNDER 35 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP
VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP Kimberly Busch, TMI Hospitality Inc. Katie Froeber, Dynamic Communities Inc. Bobbiann Froemke, Sundog Jayne Gust, Sanford Health Kristen Hintermeyer, Bobcat Company Mary Jo Hotzler, Forum Communications Co. Laura Hoverson, Dynamic Communities Inc. Jennifer Krag, Microsoft Megan Lind, Arthur Ventures Beth Nelson, Prairie Heights Community Church Danielle Paulus, Roers Tiffany Reese, Integrity Steel Supply Stephanie Roers, Summit Group Chiropractic Naomi Schempp, Prairie Heights Community Church Tonya Stende, Dale Carnegie Business Group Jill Staffne, Scheels Danielle Teigen, FMWF Chamber
30 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
THE MISSION: To mobilize the caring power of women, energize and inspire women to make a difference and deepen leadership opportunities in the Cass-Clay community for young women. Since 2009, 210 local women have participated in the 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program. Those selected meet monthly to focus on issues pertinent to young leaders. Each session is led and presented by local leaders and includes training and discussion related to goal-setting, communication, personal growth, board leadership, public speaking, conflict management, and other leadership topics. Participants in the program represent various industries throughout our community. Each year, volunteers aspire to select a group of dynamic and diverse women to experience the leadership program.
35 Under 35 participants volunteered at the Women’s Build for Habitat for Humanity
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
35 UNDER 35 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP 2014 PARTICIPANTS Erin Ahneman, Catalyst Medical Center Amy Anderson, Essentia Health Vanessa Anderson, Vogel Law Firm Kali Anderson, Braun Intertec Liz Anderson, Hornbacher’s Ashley Bakkegard, Lake Agassiz Certified Development Company Courtney Barstad, North Dakota State University Kendra Binger, Alzheimer’s Association Chrissy Brabandt, Scheels Betsy Christianson, Titan Machinery Jennifer Dietz, Xerox Jess Engel, U.S. Bank Natalie Ganske, Wells Fargo Hailey Goplen, North Dakota State University Lisa Graalum, Rebuilding Together Kris Grover Mikaela Hansen, Swanson Health Products Angela Hasbrouck, Family Wellness Danel Jung, Microsoft Kelly Krause, Tecton Products Nikki Kressin, First International Bank & Trust Ashley Kringle, John Deere Electronic Solutions Shannon Luney, Todaymade Alissa Maier, Discovery Benefits Joni Medenwald, The Village Family Service Center Lindsey Ohren, Southeastern North Dakota Community Action Agency April Olson Mata, Goldmark Property Management Angie Ryan, NetWork Center, Inc. Carrie Snyder, The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead Taya Spelhaug, North Dakota State College of Science Jessica Staehr, BW Insurance Agency Chelsey Steinlicht, Bright Futures Learning Center Kaylyn Stroh, FMWF Chamber Michelle Warren, Michelle Warren Photography / Harlynn’s Heart Adrienne White
SHARE A STORY FAMILY LITERACY EVENT United Way partners with the Fargo Park District and Prairie Public to host the Share A Story Family Literacy Event. Children and families enjoyed a day of storytelling, literacy activities, meeting PBS Kids character Sid the Kid and much more. In 2014, the 35 Under 35 Women’s Leadership Program provided 64 volunteers to help children pick out books, paint faces, and prepare food to ensure a fun afternoon.
64
VOLUNTEERS
1,333
CHILDREN & FAMILIES
LIVE UNITED
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WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL MAY DAY BASKETS OF BOOKS
UNITED WAY
On May 1, members of the Women’s Leadership Council brought baskets full of books to celebrate our partnership with the Imagination Library program. They visited local child care centers, gave books to each child, and spent time reading their favorite books to the children.
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
MISSION: To create a powerful network of women who strengthen our community through investments of: • Leadership • Fundraising • Community Service Women who give an annual gift of $600 or more or a combined gift of $1,200 with a spouse/ partner are members of Women’s Leadership.
2014 WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
CHAIR: Susan Jarvis, Sanford Health Tamara Anderson, Dale Carnegie Business Group Lisa Artz, Choice Financial Group Shara Fischer, Alerus Financial Judy Foss, Intelligent InSites Jodi Heilman, Bell State Bank & Trust Marti Jensen, Border States Electric Jenna Johnson, Family Wellness Kara Kalbus, Evolution1 Dawn Lahlum, Park Co. Realtors Dr. Melissa McCulley, McCulley Optix Gallery Adrienne Olson, John Deere Electronic Solutions Danielle Paulus, Roers Sherri Schmidt, Scheels Jill Staffne, Scheels Dr. Stephanie Roers, Summit Chiropractic
32 UNITED WAY OF CASS-CLAY
WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP COUNCIL
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP GOLF SCRAMBLE
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Each summer, women gather together for a friendly round of golf to benefit United Way’s work in early education for children. This year included a great day for golf, a costume contest and hundreds of donated supplies for the school supply drive to help students in need.
GOLFERS
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON Each year the Women’s Leadership Luncheon gathers women to enjoy an impactful keynote speaker, a silent auction of beautiful items, and the opportunity to support United Way’s early education for children. Keynote speaker Stacey Bess, an inspirational educator and author, shared her fascinating story of teaching homeless children in a small shed known as “The School with No Name”. This was the largest event in Women’s Leadership Council history.
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ATTENDEES
“We help our communities to be better by investing early in kids.” -Stacey Bess, 2014 Keynote Speaker
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UNITED WAY MEANS “THE A LOT MORE TO OUR FAMILY THAN A TRADITIONAL CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTION.
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Patrick and Erica Chaffee Family Tocqueville Investors
TOCQUEVILLE INVESTORS
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“The United Way means a lot more to our family than a traditional charitable contribution. We consider our contribution to the United Way as an investment for our family because of the positive impact it has on the community, the organizations we work for, and our own children’s future. With so many great charitable causes in the community that need support, it can be overwhelming to know where to invest. We rely upon the United Way’s due diligence and focus to best allocate our investment knowing it will have a tremendous impact. “ Patrick and Erica Chaffee United Way Tocqueville Investors
United Way recognizes our Tocqueville Society Members for their vision to build a brighter and stronger future for our community. Their leadership creates measurable change in Cass & Clay Counties by helping children achieve success in school and in life, putting families on the path to financial stability and improving the health of all. Our generous and distinguished members reflect extraordinary concern, foresight and dedication to creating opportunities for a better local Cass-Clay community through an annual contribution of $10,000 or more to United Way.
VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE
CHAIR: Tom Dawson, Dawson Insurance Erica Chaffee, Alerus Financial Patrick Chaffee, Bell State Bank & Trust Brian Hayer, Warner and Company Michelle Killoran, Scheels Nick Killoran, Great North Insurance Company Tammy Miller, Border States Electric
Each year United Way invites current and potential Tocqueville members to a fall event to network, socialize, and learn more about how their gifts to United Way make a significant impact on the lives of people that live and work in our community. United Way of Cass-Clay’s Tocqueville Society has had an active local membership for over 10 years.
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CAMPAIGN LEADERSHIP
2014 CAMPAIGN EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
2014 CHAIR: Sheriff Paul D. Laney, Cass County 2015 CHAIR: Tonya Stende, Dale Carnegie Business Group 2016 CHAIR: Mark Nisbet, Xcel Energy
2014 CAMPAIGN CABINET
Dave Anderson, Sanford Health Deneen Axtman, Cornerstone Bank Chris Barta, Tecton Products Aaron Becher, The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead David Berg, American Crystal Sugar Company Mary Bommersbach, Sammons Financial Group Eric Braun, Bell State Bank & Trust Kriss Burns, Volt Workforce Solutions Bill Carlson, Alerus Financial Erica Chaffee, Alerus Financial Pat Claus, Fargo Emergency Food Pantry Kristin Dehmer, Moorhead Area Public Schools Valerie Fiske-Blasczyk, Park Co. Realtors Belinda Forknell, Bobcat Company – Doosan Natalie Ganske, Wells Fargo Jeff Gothier, Cummins Npower Craig Graf, John Deere Electronic Solutions Ashley Hahn, Intelligent InSites Kayce Halley, Eide Bailly LLP Jim Hambrick, Cornerstone Bank Bruce Harner, Cummins Npower Kyle Haugland, BlackRidge BANK Matt Heinzen, American Federal Bank Marie Hestdalen, Pepsi Beverage Company Dale Hetland, Starion Financial
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PJ Hines, Concordia College Melissa Clancy, TMI Hospitality, Inc. Charley Johnson, Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitors Bureau Eric Johnson, Concordia College Kevin Jordre, Bremer Bank Kurtis Karn, Discovery Benefits Shelly Kegley, Bell State Bank & Trust Nick Killoran, Great North Insurance Heather Konschak, West Fargo Public Schools Sheriff Paul D. Laney, Cass County Joe Martin, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Drive Train Kevin McCaul, North Dakota State University Jesika Jorgenson, Globe University Susie McDonald, Eide Bailly, LLP Tracy Meckler, FMWF Chamber Sgt. Tara Morris, Cass County John Nelson, Ben Franklin Middle School Rob Neuteboom, Rasmussen College Mark Nisbet, Xcel Energy Patrick Novak, Border States Electric Jennifer Orth, Noridian Mutual Insurance Company Danielle Paulus, Roers Jamey Pesek, Gate City Bank Kim Pladson, TNT Kids Fitness
WHO WE ARE
Jason Pratt, Wells Fargo Michael Redlinger, City of Moorhead Ryan Roshau, Wells Fargo Jim Schaefbauer, Capital Credit Union Eddie Scheely, Choice Financial Group Angie Scoville, Western State Bank Elise Siverson, Eide Bailly, LLP Joanna Slominski, Mortenson Construction Jodi Sorenson, Border States Electric Taya Spelhaug, North Dakota State College of Science Brent Srejma, Bank of the West Tonya Stende, Dale Carnegie Business Group Jeni Strand, AgCountry Farm Credit Services Paul Tebben, U.S. Bank - Service Center Mona Tedford, Bremer Bank Dale Terry, Wells Fargo Bryan Thygeson, Dilworth-Glyndon-Felton School District Cora Turner, Homewood Suites by Hilton – Fargo David Wahlberg, Minnesota State University Moorhead Carol Weber, UPS Karen Witzel, Spherion Staffing Emmett Worth, Gate City Bank
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
A Loaned Executive is a unique professional and personal development opportunity for employees. They are “loaned� to United Way to visit area businesses and educate others about the work of United Way.
2014 LOANED EXECUTIVES
Diane Anderson, Fiebiger, Swanson, West & Co., PLLP Jodi Sorenson, Border States Electric Kristina Astrup, Discovery Benefits Jenna Boerger, The Village Family Service Center Mary Bommersbach, Sammons Financial Group Kriss Burns, Volt Workforce Solutions Faye Gramlow, Coldwell Banker First Realty Ashley Hahn, Intelligent InSites Joe Hamm, The Village Family Service Center Roxann Hanson, Tecton Products Bruce Harner, Cummins NPower Karen Harrington, Northridge Hospitality Management Nate Hausmann, Bell State Bank & Trust Becki Johnson, Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership Katherine Kiernan, Element Realty Jill Kroenke, Cargill Melissa Krystosek, Dawson Insurance Ashley Larson, U.S. Bank Michael Lee, Gate City Bank Lindsay Mack, Cornerstone Bank Jackie Meyer, Marco Rob Neuteboom, Rasmussen College Jeremy Ostrowski, Noridian Mutual Insurance Company Angie Scoville, Western State Bank Susan Smith, The Village Family Service Center Taya Spelhaug, North Dakota State College of Science Jamie Stenseth, Showplace Kitchens Rena Stenseth, Choice Financial Group Paul Tebben, U.S. Bank Melissa Vein, Rasmussen College Mark Wallace, Bell State Bank Gary Weinberger, John Deere Electronic Solutions Mike Wickham, Starion Financial
Hugh Weber, OTA, 2014 Campaign Kickoff Speaker
CAMPAIGN EVENTS HORNBACHER’S GOBBLE IT UP FOR UNITED WAY $5 LUNCH Each summer, Hornbacher’s partners with United Way to serve a delicious $5 lunch including a Jennie-O hot turkey sandwich, Frito Lay chips, Pepsi or Aquafina products and a Kemps frozen treat. This year marked the 7th annual event which has raised over $112,000 for United Way! Nearly 100 volunteers at six Hornbacher’s locations served lunches and encouraged people to support our community!
ROERS CHILI FEED FOR UNITED WAY For the second year, Roers designated all proceeds from their Annual Chili Feed to United Way. Over 50 chili recipes were served to a packed house including all of the fixings, corn bread and dessert. This year over $30,000 was raised!
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WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
CAMPAIGN AWARDS 2014 DONATH CAMPAIGN AWARD OF EXCELLENCE Discovery Benefits In memory of a devoted United Way volunteer, this award honors an organization with an outstanding commitment to United Way. Discovery Benefits increased their giving by over 18% from 2013, surpassing their campaign goal by more than $10,000. Their energetic and engaged committee offered creative ways to get employees involved with their carnival themed campaign, “Step Right Up: Be The One!” Employees could purchase Mega Passes for fun events, carnival games, casual dress days and the popular badge picture retakes. The Discovery Benefits team considers their annual United Way campaign one of their biggest culture building events, and their management team is extremely supportive in giving them the time and resources needed to make it a success. 2014 OUTSTANDING CAMPAIGN COORDINATOR OR TEAM Fewer than 100 employees Jenni Peters, Nicole Pritchard, Diana Chase, Alissa Strickler, Amy Ratajczak, Kim Kaul, & Kaley Ney, BlackRidge BANK 100-499 employees Tammy Noteboom, Jenny Boe & Tasha Haug, The Village Family Service Center 500 or more employees Caryn Olson, Lauren Brink, Brenna Naseer, Luke Torgerson, & Brittany Moulton, Scheels 2014 OUTSTANDING LOANED EXECUTIVE VOLUNTEER Mary Bommersbach, Sammons Financial Group 2014 OUTSTANDING CAMPAIGN CABINET VOLUNTEER Kriss Burns, Volt Workforce Solutions 2014 OUTSTANDING LEADERS IN GIVING CAMPAIGN Largest percent increase in donors investing $600 or more Intelligent InSites 2014 OUTSTANDING EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT Essentia Health 2014 OUTSTANDING NEW CAMPAIGN Roers 2014 OUTSTANDING YOUTH LIVING UNITED AWARD Students at Ellen Hopkins Elementary School, Moorhead Area Public Schools LIVE UNITED 39
BILLBOARD SPONSORS
MEMBER FDIC
LIVE UNITED
Making Life Better
Gate City Bank is a Member of the FDIC
UNITED for School Success
TOGETHER WE INVEST
IN EDUCATION
#DBIculture
United Way of Cass-Clay offers a unique corporate sponsorship opportunity to participate in a co-branding experience. In 2014, 27 billboards featured local businesses with their employees, volunteers, families and products demonstrating how they LIVE UNITED.
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WHO WE ARE
OUR INVESTMENTS OUR INVESTORS
BILLBOARD SPONSORS
LIVE UNITED
LIVE UNITED
swansonvitamins.com
WE LIVE UNITED
LIVE UNITED 速
UNITED WE SUPPORT SCHOOL READINESS
UNITED FOR EDUCATION
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2014
LIVE UNITED T-SHIRT DAY
It’s more than a shirt – it is making a commitment to partner with United Way to help those in need and bring about social change in our community. More than 2,100 LIVE UNITED shirts were sold and 75 businesses and organizations joined in our 3rd Annual LIVE UNITED T-Shirt Day. Thank you for participating! You don’t just wear the shirt, you live it!
UnitedWayCassClay.org unitedway@unitedwaycassclay.org
219 7th Street South Fargo, ND 58103