Do you know a United Way volunteer that we could feature here? Nominate a volunteer for our spotlight by emailing Brandi or calling our office at 336-2095.
Name: Joe Priebe
Company: Citi
Volunteer Role: Campaign Division Chair & Community Impact Division Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 4 years
Fill in the blank:
When I learned how the responsible finance of the SEUW can be utilized in such a powerful way, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome.”
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was Michael Jordan.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my daughter Brenya, because she continually reminds me of how lucky I am to have a wonderful family and that we need to do whatever we can in our power to help others.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
Honestly, too many to list. But if I were to pick one, having an impact on the lives of many people, of whom I’ll never meet.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
The SEUW is a wonderful organization with many great employees, working hard every day to meet the needs of our community. Coupled with the extremely giving and supportive volunteer base, this is truly a wonderful community to live in and be a part of. I’m proud to say that I volunteer for the United Way!
Name: Annette Adams
Company: Midcontinent Business Solutions
Volunteer Role: Corporate Campaign Consultant
# Years UW Volunteer: 4
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that 99% of funds raised locally, stay local to help fund over 90 agencies and programs in Sioux Falls and the region, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome."
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my sister Carolyn. She was determined in developing her career in the energy industry, where not a lot of women were employed, she is very successful today and works for one of the largest energy companies on the planet as an Engineer Tech.
The persons in my life who are “My Little Dears” are my two children. They aren’t so ‘little’ I have a daughter, 12 and a son who is 16 years old. This is a very interesting stage in both of their lives with more responsibilities and important decisions to make, especially for my son as he prepares for high school graduation and furthering his education.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
The community is very positive and responsive to SEUW and it’s great to meet others who share the same enthusiasm to strengthen and better our community.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
My husband Greg and I moved to Sioux Falls from Minnesota 23 years ago when I was 24—so in two more years and I’ll be more South Dakotan than Minnesotan—and the way the Vikes are playing, I’m OK with that! I’m actively involved with several organizations and enjoy watching my son play football for the Washington Warriors and my daughter perform with choir, volleyball and acting. We have two dogs (Westies) Jack & Daisy. We like to downhill ski just for the sheer challenge of trying not to hurt ourselves!
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Supporting the United Way with your contribution is so very important, but I encourage everyone to be involved with the programs and agencies in Sioux Falls and volunteer their time, they all are doing great things to make it the best place to live!
Name: Eric DeHaan
Company: Woltman Van Kekerix & Stotz, PC
Volunteer Role: Team 3 (Professionals) Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 6 years
Fill in the blank:
When I learned about United Way partners, Dolly Parton Imagination Library and the Children’s Inn, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome."
“My Heroes” when I was a freshmen in high school were my dad and Grandpa.
The persons in my life who are “My Little Dears” are my wife, because she’s always encouraging me. And my sons who are always making me feel like a hero.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy being part of something that positively impact so many in the community. It’s also been a pleasure working with and meeting many of the volunteers.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Volunteering is the easy part. Doing is the hard part. I’m amazed at all the “doers” that are a part of the United Way.
This week our spotlight is on two longtime Sioux Empire United Way volunteers. This week, Sioux Empire United Way will be delivering the one millionth Imagination Library book to a local child. The two volunteers today played an important role in launching this program locally.
Rich Garry was the 2002 Volunteer Campaign Chair in the fall of 2001. The successful 2002 Campaign created funding for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library locally.
Bill Baker was the 2003 Volunteer Campaign Chair a year later. The Campaign Kickoff that year also served as a launching point for Imagination Library to expand across the state to other United Ways and included a concert by Dolly Parton herself.
Name: Rich Garry
Company: Garry & Associates
Current Volunteer Role: Bullpen Team Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 20+
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that we could send a book each month to children under the age of five, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”. Another thing I think was “Pretty Awesome” was when I was the 2002 Campaign Chair, 9/11 happened just a few days after our Campaign Kickoff and at first giving came to a dead halt. Then, our community was generous in their giving to the victims of 9/11. In addition, they were continued their giving support to Sioux Empire United Way. It was amazing to see the Sioux Empire’s generosity during that time.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was John F. Kennedy, because he was assassinated just two years before I was a freshmen.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my brand new grandson, Kellan because he is my first grandchild and we just got to spend two weeks with him.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy their mission and the incredible work they do in the four county area. I also like the fact that all the businesses and individuals are so motivated by the agencies and initiatives that United Way funds.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
What motivates me the most in life right now is community service. I was trained in public service, but now community service is my passion. Whether it’s the United Way, Washington Pavilion, SD Achieve, Dow Rummel, or others – there is a whole range of organizations that can have an impact.
Name: Bill Baker
Company: The First National Bank in Sioux Falls
Current Volunteer Role: Bullpen Team Member
# Years Volunteer: 15+
I’m honored to be in the “spotlight.”
With my Campaign coming a year later, launched in September, 2002 (for 2003), I was fortunate to ride on Rich’s coattails! The fun thing I got to do was to invite Dolly Parton to come to Sioux Falls to perform at the statewide Imagination Library launch. By that time, thanks to Rich and his team’s efforts (and thanks to Jay, Laura Bowman, Deb Koski, and other SEUW staff at the time) we already had a solid track record with Dolly’s staff, and they were willing to consider coming to Sioux Falls.
I’ve often joked that I “got to carry Dolly Parton’s guitar case” around for a day, and that’s basically what it was, but it was definitely one of the more memorable days of my life! She was absolutely wonderful! Such a trooper, and with such a wonderful, self-deprecating sense of humor! And then… several weeks after she left, she sent back the money that we had raised to pay her band members and road crew (her performance fee was waived from the beginning)… She said, “I’ll take care of the band and crew, put this money into your fund to buy the books for the kids!” I’ll never forget that… it spoke volumes about the kind of human being she really is!
Name: Jolene L. Kranz, CPA
Company: Thurman, Comes, Foley & Co., LLP
Volunteer Role: Accountants Division Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 6
Fill in the blank:
When I learned the Sioux Empire United Way supported many programs similar to the ones I enjoyed as a child, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Heroes” when I was a freshman in high school were my parents. They worked so hard and gave my brother, sister, and I tons of wonderful experiences and opportunities on a very limited budget.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my Great Dane Gaea, because she constantly reminds me of the important things in life.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy all of the enthusiasm and energy the SEUW volunteers and staff bring to their roles.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
If you see Gaea and I on a walk downtown or in McKennan Park be sure to say hi! We love meeting new people!
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Thank you to everyone who gives there time, talents, and treasures to support Sioux Empire United Way. Its because of you Sioux Falls is one of the greatest places to live and with your support it will continue to be!
Name: Cordell Brooks
Company: Midco Connections
Volunteer Role: Corporate Gifts C Campaign Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 25+
Fill in the blank:
When I learned in the early 1980’s about the agencies that United Way (at that time United Fund) serves I was thought this was the best way to give back to the community that has given to me, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshman in high school was Winston Churchill and John F Kennedy. I have always appreciated their ideals (although neither was living when I was in high school).
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my daughters Allison and Laura, because they have strong principles and are both very caring.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
The volunteer base in our community is awesome. Everyone has a commitment to excellence and it shows every year as we beat our campaign objectives.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I enjoy playing golf and bowling….although a painful experience I enjoy both the Vikings and Twins.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
One of the major contributors to the ongoing health and welfare of our community is volunteer support of our United Way campaigns. I encourage and challenge each of our volunteers to continue making a difference in the community by being a leader and taking an active role during our annual campaigns. Future generations will recognize the accomplishments.
Name: Craig Hohn
Company: Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Volunteer Role: Campaign Consultant
# Years UW Volunteer: This is my first year volunteering for United Way
Fill in the blank:
When I learned 1 in 3 people in the area is impacted by SEUW, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my father.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my fiancée Ashley, because she has always been there to support and help me.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I really enjoy meeting and working with new people within the community, everyone is very energetic and fun to be around.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I am currently engaged to Ashley, an x-ray tech at Avera McKennan, and we will be getting married this coming summer.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Being involved with UW has been a great experience and I hope to be involved again, in some way, next year.
Name: Amy Koehlmoos
Company: LodgeNet Healthcare
Volunteer Role: Marketing Division Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 4+
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that the Sioux Empire United Way ranks 2nd in the nation in per capita giving, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my 7-year-old daughter, Maya because she helps puts things in perspective and understands the value of a well-timed hug.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy working with a diverse group of people to accomplish a common objective. Everyone sets aside their personal biases for the sake of making our community a better place to live.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Challenge yourself to do more. Increase your donation. Coordinator your company’s Employee Campaign. Volunteer as a Mentor. Everything you give will come back tenfold.
Name: Jon Coyne
Company: Wells Fargo
Volunteer Role: Medium Firms Campaign Section Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 5
Fill in the blank:
When I learned the Sioux Empire United Way provides services and programs for the communities surrounding Sioux Falls, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my Grandfather, because I loved listening to his stories about growing up in the old days.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy hitting the campaign trail each year and meeting with businesses. There are so many interesting and unique local businesses in the Sioux Falls area I would never have known about if it weren’t for being a United Way volunteer.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I have three sons, Cameron (7), Alex (4), and Owen (1) with my wife Lynn. We had lots of fun boating this past summer, and we just celebrated our son Owen’s 1st birthday in October.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Every year when the United Way campaign season kicks off, it serves as a reminder for me to be thankful for the things I have in life. It’s a rare opportunity to be part of such a successful and rewarding organization.
Name: Shelly Johnson
Company: Lawrence & Schiller
Volunteer Role: Medium Firms B Team Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 15+
Fill in the blank:
When I learned what a well-oiled machine Sioux Empire United Way is, operating with a relatively small staff and over 1000 local volunteers, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome." As anyone who has ever volunteered knows, that is no small feat! Our United Way is remarkably efficient and organized, and always focused on meeting the needs of our community.
“My Heroes” when I was a freshman in high school were my parents, although that may not have been my immediate response when I was 14! Being the youngest of three and having “older” parents, I can look back and appreciate how they persevered through a lot of challenges to provide for my siblings and me.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is an 87 year old relative, my dad’s first cousin, who my husband and I have gotten to know recently. He gets out and about every day, and is always bringing us vegetables from his garden. People his age are so humble, and they have lived through so much. It’s nice to have that connection to my family.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
It’s two fold. A big part of it is the fun and friendships I’ve made over the years. The other part is knowing I’m part of something bigger, doing the right thing for Sioux Falls and the surrounding communities. When you begin to learn about and understand the needs of our community, it’s eye-opening.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I’m a dog-lover and avid shopper. I’m working on getting back into the habit of reading, which requires a longer attention span than what mine has become. I’ve been very fortunate in my career to work for companies that are community-minded and support employees’ volunteer efforts, and I’ve had some great mentors along the way.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Everything you do makes a difference and impacts how people perceive the SEUW. Be a champion for the cause. Find the story that means something to you and share it with others when you’re making your campaign calls.
Name: Adrienne McKeown
Company: Citi
Volunteer Role: Co-ECM at Citi, Counseling Community Impact Team
# Years UW Volunteer: 12
Fill in the blank:
When I learned how much time and effort goes into reviewing each and every Sioux Empire UW program to ensure that the money raised really is going to meet the needs in the community, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my husband, Todd, because he provides the support behind the scenes that enables me to do “extra” things like volunteering.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy the fact that I can volunteer for just one organization and yet impact so many lives in so many different ways across the Sioux Empire. By volunteering for the SEUW, I am actually reaching out to around 50 agencies and 97 programs. Now THAT is what I call multi-tasking!
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
My husband Todd and I live in Harrisburg with our two children—Maggie (5) and Ryan (3). We are a split household during the NFL season with one bleeding purple and the other sporting a big cheesehead (GO PACK!), but we rally together come baseball season as we cheer on the Minnesota Twins!
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.” Edmund Everett Hale
Name: Paul Sova
Company: Showplace Wood Products
Volunteer Role: Board Member & Audit Committee Member
# Years SEUW Volunteer: 5
Fill in the blank:
When I learned we have the best United Way chapter in the country, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome.” People want to be associated with a winner…it’s infectious.
In 1968, when I was in the 9th Grade at Edison Junior High in Sioux Falls, “My Hero” was my oldest sister’s husband, who became the brother I never had.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” will always be my daughter Laura because, even though she has grown up to be a beautiful and brilliant young woman, she will always be my little girl.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy volunteering for our Sioux Empire United Way because I understand how vital our work is for our community.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
In my spare time I turn wooden bowls and vases on a lathe in my studio at home, most of which I give away to charity fund raisers or as gifts to family.
Name: Dean Mertz
Company: The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society -- National Campus
Volunteer Role: Board of Directors (in first year) and Human Resources Committee (7 years)
# Years UW Volunteer: 7 years
Fill in the blank:
When I learned and heard the stories of all the GREAT services and support about Sioux Empire United Way, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my basketball coach.
The persons in my life who are “My Little Dears” are my granddaughters (Amelia - 8 months; Olivia - 3 1/2 years), because they are just a lot of fun and they think grandpa is cool!
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
The thing I enjoy the MOST about volunteering for SEUW is experiencing how SEUW touches the lives of so many people in so many different ways in the Sioux Falls community. This is a pretty OUTSTANDING organization and I am proud of all they do.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
Deb and I have two sons, Eric and Ryan. Eric and Libby (spouse) live in Marshall, Minnesota with our two granddaughters; Ryan lives in Socorro, New Mexico. Deb and I like to hike, travel, read, bike, snowshoe, cross-country ski...anything outside. We enjoy staying at Bed and Breakfasts and try to do this often. I have been able to serve the Good Samaritan Society for 32+ years and been able to work in different locations while serving in the Society. I have met and work with some very outstanding people who do a great job of serving one another! It has been a gift and a blessing.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
Continue to Educate yourself and others in the many ways SEUW supports this community of Sioux Falls; Engage yourself in the fund-raising, friend-raising and fun-raising that SEUW desires; and Experience the ways in which SEUW touches the lives of those serving and being served! It is very SPECIAL what SEUW has accomplished through its past and will accomplish in the future...Continue the Journey!
Name: Tim Klein
Company: Wells Fargo Home Preservation
Volunteer Role: Section Chair
# Years UW Volunteer: 4
Fill in the blank:
When I learned $.93 of every dollar goes directly to those who need it most in the Sioux Empire through the Sioux Empire United Way, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my Grandfather.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my wife, because she always challenges me to take some risks.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I enjoy knowing that my time is making a difference in the lives of many people in the Sioux Empire less fortunate than myself and my family.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I have two boys Taylor (7), Peyton (5) and one daughter Avery (2) with my wife Lisa. We enjoy camping as much as we can during the summer along with fishing.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
I enjoy competition which is why I like the UW Campaign. I am motivated by having the largest percent of increase over other sections of the campaign. I like to win and with a large increase in giving over the previous year, everyone wins! Your time and effort does make a BIG difference in many lives of the Sioux Empire.
Name: Ryan Ling
Company: CIGNA Home Delivery Pharmacy
Volunteer Role: Basic Needs Community Impact Team, Corporate Gifts Consultant
# Years UW Volunteer: 4
Fill in the blank:
When I learned just how many lives locally that the Sioux Empire United Way directly impacts, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was Eric Clapton.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
The relationships I’ve been able to form. We all come from the same place and have the same basic needs. Being able to fulfill these needs for others is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I am a self-taught musician on guitar and piano
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
I always try to remember the saying “You don’t need to be a millionaire to be rich, only a volunteer.”
Name: Tyler Klatt
Company: Student at USD
Volunteer Role: Campaign Intern
# Years UW Volunteer: 3 months
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that the United Way holds sessions to train volunteers, I thought that was "Pretty Awesome," especially considering the amounts of volunteers that they have.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my debate coach Mr. Walker, who always motivated me to do everything to the best of my ability.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is my 7 year old sister Rylea, because she looks up to me which makes me aware of my actions and always being sure I’m acting as a good role model.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I loved knowing that my hard work was going to benefit the greater good. I loved being able to work behind the scenes with the SEUW and learn how a non-profit operates on the inside. The intricacies of the entire system are much greater than I ever had imagined.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I’m graduating in December and hoping to get an internship in the state legislature. After that, I’ll be going to graduate school for a Masters in Public Administration.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
If you ever have the chance to volunteer for the United Way, in any capacity, do it! It is a truly rewarding experience that is one of a kind.
Name: Jenna Rist
Company: Student at Stanford University
Volunteer Role: Campaign Intern
# Years UW Volunteer: 1
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that volunteers really run the show at Sioux Empire United Way, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was my dad, John, because he was a single parent to GIRLS, my favorite teacher, a farmer, and my friend all at the same time.
The person in my life who is “My Little Dear” is one of the preschoolers I teach, Kian, because he finds so much joy in every activity he does and brings that childhood joy back into my life.
What do you enjoy about volunteering for SEUW?
I love feeling like my actions are making a difference, not just padding a resume.
Any other fun facts about you, your family, your career or hobbies that you'd like to share?
I was the only Stanford varsity athlete from South Dakota my freshman year while I was on the rowing team.
Is there anything else you would like to share with other United Way supporters?
United Way makes the Sioux Empire such a great place to live and work, and I can't wait to come back when I graduate this spring!
Name: Fred Slunecka
Company: Avera Health
Volunteer Role: 2012 Campaign Chair
Fill in the blank:
When I learned that Sioux Falls has one of the most efficient United Way organizations in the nation AND Sioux Falls is the second most generous community in the nation on a per capita basis about Sioux Empire United Way, I thought this is “Pretty Awesome”.
“My Hero” when I was a freshmen in high school was our debate coach, Mrs. Kaufman. She saw potential in me and gave me the support I needed to succeed.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering for United Way?
The satisfaction that comes from knowing that every dollar helps an individual with a need and we are supporting the quality of life in this community. I am not sure everyone appreciates the incredible community we live in nor do they appreciated the vital role United Way plays in maintaining that quality.
What would surprise people about myself?
Not much….but I am a passable guitar player on Rock Band and Guitar Hero!