Washington Co., WI – The 2023 United Way of Washington County campaign is being led by board members and City of Hartford, Wis. administrator, Steve Volkert. We caught up with Steve to find out why he decided to get involved.
Why did you decide to be a United Way campaign co-chair this year?
SV: I have been promoting United Way every year since I came back to Washington County. I was born and raised here and many of the programs that get funding from United Way are essential in improving the lives of residents. I have seen the improvements in this county thanks to United Way. There are many programs now that I wish were here when I was growing up, including Boys and Girls Club.
Why do you think United Way is important for the community?
SV: All of the organizations that receive funding from United Way put their scarce resources into improving the lives of local residents. When local residents thrive, local businesses benefit from having a healthy and stable workforce, which in turn helps the community thrive.
As a board member of Boys and Girls Club, we see that food scarcity, mental health, and homelessness are all issues here. Most nonprofits addressing these issues don’t have time to provide programming and raise funds. With United Way, you aren’t just giving to one organization, you are giving to over 20.
If people could understand one thing about United Way, what would it be?
SV: United Way is a transparent organization that raises money to give to well-established organizations that improve the lives of our neighbors. Organizations like Boys and Girls Club would not be around if it wasn’t for the United Way.
