On Thursday, October 8, Julie Rethemeier, Edna Ringhofer and Ryan Gillespie, representatives for the United Way of Steele County, were in our KRFO AM1390 studios.

Rethemeier, from Federated Insurance, discussed the responsibility of the corporate campaign sponsor, which is to get out in the community and educate businesses about the United Way. This year it is NAPA Distribution Center. They want every business to do a big or small campaign, all of it helps.

United Way reaches out to businesses to be a corporate sponsor. Past sponsors have been Federated Insurance, the Owatonna school district and the Owatonna Clinic.

Rethemeier discussed different ways that companies can raise money, including having a bake sale, pumpkin decorating, chili or bike contests.

Ringhofer, with Healthy Seniors, mentioned that United Way helps them serve nearly 1,400 seniors with the help of 500 volunteers to help seniors to stay in their homes longer. Some of the many programs include Adopt-A-Senior, Medical Escort and Light Chores.

New board member Gillespie talked about how United Way had helped her family during the flood and how it was an easy decision to say yes when asked to be on the board because of the influence of her father.

United Way of Steele County won a prestigious award in 2013 for their size among the National United Ways.

United Way of Steele County campaign ends on December 31, and hopes to reach their goal of $670,000.

United Way Representatives
United Way of Steele County representatives Julie Rethemeier, Edna Ringhofer and Ryan Gillespie discusses the campaign. Lisa Marie/Townsquare Media
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