Kenosha, WI – November 20 – United Way of Kenosha County’s annual gala, the Live UNITED Spectacular, was a tremendous success. Thanks to the generous support of attendees, donors, and sponsors, the event exceeded its fundraising goal, raising over $20,000 to further advance United Way of Kenosha County’s mission of building an equitable Kenosha County where all individuals are healthy, educated and economically stable.
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible outpouring of support at this year’s Live UNITED Spectacular,” said Carolynn Friesch, CEO of United Way of Kenosha County. “This event truly showcased the power of our community coming together. The enthusiasm and generosity from everyone involved is a powerful reminder that we can make a greater impact when we Live UNITED. We are thrilled to have surpassed our fundraising goal, and the funds raised will help us continue our important work in Kenosha.”
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The evening was made possible thanks to the support of Carthage College and Snap-on Incorporated, who served as the presenting sponsors of the event. Their leadership, alongside many other local businesses and organizations, played a key role in helping United Way of Kenosha County bring the community together for an inspiring and impactful night.
In addition to Carthage College and Snap-on Incorporated, United Way of Kenosha County extends sincere thanks to the following sponsors whose generosity helped make the evening such a success:
- Johnson Financial Group
- Educators Credit Union
- City of Hope Cancer Center
- Aurora Health Care
- Gateway Technical College
- Herzing University
- Community State Bank
Throughout the evening, United Way of Kenosha County celebrated remarkable individuals and an organization that have made, and continue to make, a lasting impact on the community.
Nick Smith received the Legacy of Giving Award, presented by board president Jacqueline Morris.
Smith is vice president of operations for the South Wisconsin Area of Aurora Health Care and a former board president of United Way of Kenosha County.
Miles and Jackie Hartley received the Legacy of Caring Award, presented by board member Nikki Payne.
Miles is an attorney at Guttormsen & Hartley, LLP, and Jackie is the founder of Go Partner, LLP. Miles is a former member of the United Way of Kenosha County Board of Directors and a long-time Readers Are Leaders tutor. Jackie is a long-time volunteer who recently led a book drive for the Readers Are Leaders program.
Johnson Financial Group received the Corporate Philanthropy Award, presented by board member Dezarrea Kindle.
Since 1970, Johnson Financial Group has been committed to giving back to the communities where its employees live and work, with its longstanding support of United Way as a cornerstone. The company matches every employee contribution to United Way dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact and encouraging a spirit of generosity. Its holistic approach combines financial support with active volunteerism, fostering collaboration and strengthening the economic health of local communities.
“We came together as a community to celebrate the spirit of giving, honor those making a difference, and support a brighter future for Kenosha County,” Friesch said. “Your dedication to service and community impact inspires us all.”
The event also featured videos from community partners, who shared their experiences and expressed the importance of volunteerism and their support for United Way of Kenosha County. Their stories highlighted the role that collaboration and community involvement play in driving lasting change across Kenosha.
After the event, sponsor Herzing University hosted an after-party where the community came together to continue celebrating the evening. It was an opportunity to share laughs, reflect on the night’s successes and connect with one another. United Way of Kenosha County thanks Herzing University for adding to an already memorable night.
United Way of Kenosha County extends thanks to everyone who attended, donated, participated in the silent auction and volunteered at the event. Their generosity and enthusiasm help fuel continued efforts to create opportunities for youth, improve financial security, promote health and wellness, and support community resilience throughout Kenosha County.
United Way of Kenosha County continues to seek support. As the organization moves forward by expanding programs, supporting local nonprofits and staying engaged in the community, it remains committed to connecting diverse voices and maximizing resources to collectively strengthen and uplift Kenosha County. Every donation, large or small, brings the organization closer to making an even greater impact. Live UNITED with United Way of Kenosha County and donate at https://www.kenoshaunitedway.org/donate.
United Way of Kenosha County is a nonprofit organization that works to improve the lives of individuals and families in the community. Through strategic partnerships and funding in the areas of education, financial stability and health, United Way is helping create long-term positive change for residents of Kenosha County. By uniting people and resources, the organization aims to build a stronger community for all.
