United Way History
United Way of Central Minnesota has a history of helping local people in need. The organization started in 1967 when it was incorporated as "United Fund: St. Cloud Area." Volunteers worked together to combine many fund drives into one. The volunteer-run United Fund supported 15 local agencies and raised $252,000, 23 percent more than their goal that first year. The enthusiasm of the community was encouraging to the new board of directors.
The next few years were years of learning and growth. The volunteers learned how to schedule the campaign, set realistic goals and recruit volunteer leadership. They learned the importance of keeping the community informed and were excited about United Fund and its agencies. By 1971, there were 20 agencies and fund raising goals had increased to $339,000.
There were changes both locally and nationally in 1972. A national organization, United Way of America, was formed to provide unity and help with training and communication efforts. United Fund changed its name to "United Way of St. Cloud Area" to reflect its association with this national office. Though the name changed, the goals of helping people remained the same.
The fast growing organization was becoming difficult for volunteers to manage alone, and in 1973 United Way hired its first full time Executive Director. The Executive Director was a year -round professional who could coordinate campaign organization, public awareness and the increasing number of volunteers.
Increased donations in the 1980s and 1990s enabled United Way of St. Cloud Area to meet more of the needs in Central Minnesota. In 2000, we changed our name to United Way of Central Minnesota to reflect our growing responsibility. Currently, we support health and human service programs that best address the issues facing Central Minnesota.
United Way has grown into more than just a fundraising organization. United Way of Central Minnesota is a leader in our community in identifying community concerns and bringing people and resources together to best meet changing needs. United Way partners with area businesses, governments, and non-profits to work together with you to make the most impact and improve people's lives.