Supervisors Proclaim March 2026 "United Way Community Partnership and Agency Recognition Period"

When your school board votes, Decorah News is there to report. Chip in to keep your voice in the room. DECORAH — The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors on Monday unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing the work of United Way of Winneshiek County. The action followed a presentation from the organization's board president about its history, partnerships and annual fundraising campaign. Christopher Miculinich, speaking on behalf of United Way, addressed the supervisors and asked the board to issue a proclamation supporting the organization's campaign season. Miculinich said the organization was founded in 1960 as the Winneshiek County United Fund by local leaders who believed in "neighbors helping neighbors." Over the past 65 years, he said, it has evolved into United Way of Winneshiek County to align with national standards and address local needs. Today, the nonprofit works to bring together donors, volunteers and partner agencies throughout Winneshiek County and northeast Iowa to address issues in three areas: health, education and financial stability. "We bring donors, volunteers and partner agencies alike across Winneshiek County and greater northeast Iowa to address the community's most pressing needs," Miculinich told supervisors. Funds raised locally are invested back into local services, supporting agencies whose work often extends beyond county lines into southeastern Minnesota, he said. Miculinich said the organization was launching its annual campaign and requested a proclamation from the county to highlight community support for its mission. He said such recognition signals that local government stands behind the work of volunteers, donors and partner agencies involved with United Way. He also noted that the organization operates with an all-volunteer community board. During the discussion, Supervisor Steve Kelsay asked about the organization's recently established endowment fund, referenced in its annual report. Miculinich said the endowment would strengthen the organization's ability to support local agencies, particularly as charitable contributions have declined in recent years. The fund will primarily be used to invest additional resources back into the community through United Way's annual allocations process, he said. Supervisor discussion concluded with the reading of a proclamation recognizing March 2026 as the "United Way Community Partnership and Agency Recognition Period" in Winneshiek County. The proclamation states that strong communities are built through collaboration among nonprofit organizations, public institutions, volunteers and residents. It also acknowledges the network of local agencies partnered with United Way that provide services and programs benefiting residents across the county. Supervisors voted unanimously to adopt the proclamation. Miculinich thanked the board for allowing him to speak and for supporting the organization's work. "We're very proud of our 65 years of service within Winneshiek County and surrounding areas," he said. "We're committed to continuing that work." Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.