United Way merges Olmsted County, Dodge County organizations

By KAALTV
Credit: United Way

(ABC 6 News) – United Way of Dodge County and United Way of Olmsted County announced on Tuesday that they have merged the two organizations.

Paul Kiltinen, who served as President of the United Way of Dodge County Board of Directors prior to the merger said the reason for the merger is to “increase efficiency and have a greater impact, directing more money to services that improve people’s lives.”

Kiltinen said the merger follows more than six months of discussions between the boards of both United Ways.

Here’s how it will work:  

  • The organizations have joined together to consolidate administrative operations. United Way will continue to do business as United Way of Dodge County when working with Dodge County residents and businesses.  
  • Before merging, United Way of Dodge County allocated funds it raised in 2022. Those grant awards will be maintained through 2025, without agencies needing to reapply for funding. A list of nonprofit grantees can be found on the United Way of Dodge County website.  
  • United Way will continue to honor donors’ intentions by directing donations to local communities. Campaign pledges from workplaces in Dodge County and individual donations solicited by mail from Dodge County households will be directed to programs and operations supporting Dodge County residents; the same is true for Olmsted County.  
  • Over the coming months, United Way will be exploring how best to serve communities throughout the merged service area. Local stakeholders will be consulted to inform planning efforts. 

United Way of Olmsted County President Jerome Ferson says the merger will enable a more seamless experience for donors. “People’s lives don’t stop at the county line. We know there are Olmsted County residents who work in Dodge County, and vice versa. By consolidating our operations, we are making it easier than ever to donate directly to your local community.”  

Even before the merger, United Way of Olmsted County has supported services to benefit Dodge County residents, including free tax preparation and the 211 information and referral service. Ferson says more than 500 Dodge County residents benefitted from such services last year.