Merged United Way: Brings ‘Day of Caring’ back to Dunn, Pepin counties

MENOMONIE, Wis. — The merger of two United Way organizations in western Wisconsin means the popular Day of Caring is returning to Dunn County, and volunteers and projects are needed to make it successful. 

“We are so happy the United Way Day of Caring is coming back to Dunn County,” said Jenalee Nutter, Dunn County Human Resources Director who is working to sign up employees for the event.  “People really missed this, and bringing it back will be great for the community.”  

The event is an annual day of action connecting teams of corporate and government volunteers with nonprofits from across Dunn and Pepin counties. Volunteer teams complete half-day projects at local nonprofits.  

In July, United Way St. Croix Valley merged with the Dunn County United Way to form United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys, encompassing the counties of Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix.   

Announcing the return of the Day of Caring in Dunn and Pepin on Oct. 10 was one of the first major initiatives of the merged organization, said Steven McCarthy, the group’s Executive Director.   

“Prior to 2021, it had been a long-time tradition,” McCarthy said.  “That’s why it is in people’s minds, and it’s why we are getting back to it.”  

The last normal Day of Caring in Dunn County was in 2021; the Dunn County United Way held a quasi Day of Caring in 2022 that extended from Aug. 17-Sept. 30 to help move the group’s donation center.  

Sarah Weiske, United Way Director of Development, said the group revived the Day of Caring in Dunn and Pepin counties to demonstrate the return and renewed strength of the United Way in those counties. She added that this event would help determine whether it could be a sustainable model to replicate in other counties served by the organization.  

Weiske emphasized that the success of the event depends on the involvement of volunteers and organizations in those counties. “We are actively seeking event sponsors, project ideas, and teams to participate,” she said.  

For details about the inaugural Day of Caring, including how to become a sponsor, register a team, or submit a project, visit https://www.uwvalleys.org/dayofcaring.  

All nonprofit organizations — including agencies, service clubs, schools, local governments and community organizations — can submit project proposals.  Projects have included yardwork, painting, landscaping, deep cleaning, disseminating flyers, sorting and straightening items, furniture assembly, and clerical or administrative tasks.  

The deadline for submitting project proposals and signing up as a volunteer is Oct. 4. Questions can be submitted to givehope@uwvalleys.org.  

Nutter said she is working within Dunn County government to sign up teams of volunteers. Interest has been high, she added.  

“You get out of a normal day at the office and get to do some good for the community,” Nutter said.  

The organization also is looking for financial sponsors to cover expenses.  More information on sponsorships is available at the Day of Caring web site or by emailing sarah.weiske@uwvalleys.org.