Submitted by Sarah Weiske, United Way
HUDSON, WI – United Way St. Croix Valley and Dunn County United Way announces their intent to merge to form a stronger, more unified force for community impact. The combined organization will be known as United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys, serving communities throughout Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix counties.
This strategic merger, effective July 1, 2024, will bring together two organizations with long histories and a shared commitment to improving lives and driving positive change in the region. By joining forces, these United Ways will more efficiently address critical issues facing individuals and families in need.
“We are excited to embark on this new chapter,” said Steve McCarthy, Executive Director of the merged organization. “By combining our efforts, we can better serve our communities, mobilize resources, and create lasting solutions to the challenges facing our region. We look forward to strengthening United Way’s presence in Dunn County. We will provide more details in the weeks to come.”
The merger will enable United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys to streamline operations, eliminate duplication, and maximize the impact of donor investments. Additionally, the organization will leverage the strengths and expertise of both entities’ board members and staff to expand effective programs and services, including 211, Success by 6, Mental Health First Aid Training, the John Coughlin Hope Fund, and an annual workplace campaign that reinvests financial resources in select nonprofit partners.
“We believe that by uniting our resources and expertise, we can make an even greater difference in the lives of individuals and families throughout the St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys,” said Todd Sherman, Board President of the merged organization.
“Together, we will continue to work hard to create thriving communities where everyone has the opportunity to succeed,” said Tim Bartels, Dunn County United Way Board President.
United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys will honor existing commitments, partnerships, and relationships established by United Way St. Croix Valley and Dunn County United Way, while seeking new opportunities for collaboration and collective impact.
For more information about St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys United Way, visit each organization’s current websites: unitedwaystcroix.org and uwaydunn.org. The organizations will share more information closer to July 1, 2024.
In the meantime, anyone interested in being a part of United Way’s collective efforts should contact Steve McCarthy at steve.mccarthy@unitedwaystcroix.org.
United Way fights for the health, education, and financial stability of every person in Western Wisconsin.
