Member Spotlight: Amy and Jesse Olson

Member Spotlight: Amy and Jesse Olson

For Amy and Jesse Olson, the journey to Tocqueville was made up of small steps and “ah ha” moments along the way.  

Early in her career at CUNA Mutual (now TruStage), Amy was involved in supporting the organization’s internal United Way campaign. Later, she served as a volunteer United Way Account Executive, helping to invite more people and companies to get involved in giving back. Amy was part of the Rosenberry Society (now LINC), where she had the opportunity to meet young professionals who shared her passion while having fun together. After she and Jesse got married, they were looking for deeper ways to be involved and ended up joining Key Club, now known as Lead United. 

Jesse, Country Director at CAMECA Instruments, has helped United Way build relationships with the growing technology sector across Dane County. In recent years, he has been an active Campaign Cabinet volunteer and advocate for CAMECA’s successful employee campaign.  

Amy recently retired from M3 Insurance, where she worked for 20 years. She credits M3’s commitment to giving back and sharing her personal values as the reason she was able to stay and build a fulfilling career there. 

When it came to joining Tocqueville, there was power in a personal invitation. Sean LaBorde, President at M3 Insurance and former Tocqueville Cabinet Chair, invited Amy and Jesse to attend the annual Tocqueville Membership Dinner for the first time in 2023. Previously, Amy hadn’t necessarily thought Tocqueville was for people like her, rather that only the most powerful and well-known families in our community could be members. But upon walking into the event, she and Jesse saw so many people they knew – friends, colleagues and families from their daughter’s school. 

Philanthropy has always been an Olson Family affair. Both Amy and Jesse were raised by parents who wove giving back into the fabric of their upbringing. When their daughter, Paige, was born, they both knew that they’d raise her with those same values. For their family, it’s not about the amount given or the recognition received, but about prioritizing giving back as a practice. They see giving back not as an obligation, but a privilege, understanding that our community is stronger when we help others. 

When Paige was young, Amy attended the annual Women’s Initiative luncheon (now Women United), where she learned about the literacy challenges children in our community were facing. For her fifth birthday, Amy suggested to Paige that instead of asking for gifts from her friends, she ask everyone to bring a book to donate to United Way’s literacy programs. Paige agreed and it’s a memory that still stands out for her, continuing that family spirit of philanthropy. 

To Amy and Jesse, joining Tocqueville came at the perfect time. They believe that if people already have a philosophy of giving, they should consider when, not if, it’s time to take that next step. For the Olsons, that time came sooner than they might have originally thought. Our community is stronger because of their action, leadership and modeling philanthropy for the next generation. 

February 2025: The Power of Caring. Working for All. In Action

The Power of Caring. Working for All.
In Action

When in crisis, it’s challenging to know where to go for help. And, with so many opportunities to help, it’s not always easy to know where to make the most impact. United Way understands the big picture and can mobilize resources to make a real difference. One of the ways we do this is through 211 – our 24/7 help line.

When Jennifer’s son Ryan was diagnosed with autism, she found herself facing a whole new world of challenges. While navigating this new diagnosis, she ran into obstacles finding a daycare that could cater to Ryan’s needs and had to quit her job to care for him full time. Without her income, her family was struggling to get by – so, she called 211 for help. We were able to connect her with resources including Applied Behavior Analysis therapy for Ryan and support groups for parents in similar situations. We also got her started with the Dane County Department of Human Services Children’s Long-Term Support program to help her cover some of their expenses. Now, a few months later, she shared that Ryan is getting the support he needs from ABA therapy and she’s been able to start working part time again. We were so glad to hear that they’ve made progress with the help of these resources and are on a pathway towards a thriving life as a family!

Our 211 staff are always there to lend a helping hand and a listening ear. And, every day, we’re connecting our neighbors to resources that will help them not only find short-term stability but support them as they work to achieve long-term success. Visit our website to learn more!

February 2025: United Way of Dane County 211 is Here to Help, 24/7

United Way of Dane County 211 is Here to Help, 24/7

At United Way, we know that an internet search doesn’t always cut it in times of crisis. And we’re here to help, so that no neighbor has to navigate the complicated network of social services alone.

As the most comprehensive health and human services database in Dane County, 211 makes it easier for our neighbors to find and access the resources they need during challenging times. Last year, our 211 staff and volunteers handled:

  • 26,700+ contacts (calls, texts, chats and emails)
  • 58,600+ referrals to community resources  

From finding food to paying rent or connecting to addiction treatment (and so much more), our 211 specialists are available 24/7, 365 days a year to provide confidential assistance in more than 350 languages.

With so many people struggling to make ends meet, we know the needs far outweigh resources currently available – that’s where you come in! By giving to United Way to support 211, you’re solving community problems and creating lasting change across Dane County.

February 26, 2025: United Way raises over $17M through community campaign

United Way raises over $17M through community campaign

Over 13,000 individuals and nearly 500 area businesses helped United Way of Dane County to raise $17.3 million during its 2024 Community Fundraising Campaign. On Tuesday, the nonprofit hosted a Community Celebration with more than 500 attendees at the Monona Terrace.

Through its Plan for Community Well-Being, United Way of Dane County is investing in local nonprofits working on family well-being, with a focus on supporting the areas of youth opportunity, financial security, and a healthy community. This year marks the organization’s first cycle funding local nonprofits that align with this plan.

February 26, 2025: United Way of Dane County raises $17.3M in 2024 Community Fundraising Campaign

United Way of Dane County raises $17.3M in 2024 Community Fundraising Campaign

The greater Madison community came together to raise $17.3 million during the 2024 United Way Community Fundraising Campaign, the United Way of Dane County announced on Wednesday.

The United Way of Dane County hosted a Community Celebration on Feb. 25 with more than 500 community members joining the non-profit organization at the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.

“I’m always awe-struck by the incredible generosity of our community,” says Renee Moe, president & CEO of United Way of Dane County, in a statement. “I’m grateful to every community member who trusts us with their hard-earned dollars, knowing we will multiply them and be accountable stewards. We know times are uncertain and challenging, and there are so many options for where to invest your money. By giving to United Way, you’re amplifying your impact and advancing solutions. Thank you for being a part of the Power of Caring. Working for All.”

February 26, 2025: The Community’s Campaign Raises $17.3 Million with United Way of Dane County

The Community’s Campaign Raises $17.3 Million with United Way of Dane County

Madison, WI (February 26, 2025) – Thanks to more than 13,000 individuals and nearly 500 businesses across Dane County, our community was able to raise $17.3 million during the 2024 Community Fundraising Campaign.

On Tuesday, United Way of Dane County hosted a Community Celebration, with more than 500 community members joining us at the Monona Terrace. At this event, we celebrated the community’s generosity, giving thanks to hundreds of partners for making real, measurable change
possible in Dane County.

“I’m always awe-struck by the incredible generosity of our community,” says Renee Moe, President & CEO of United Way of Dane County. “I’m grateful to every community member who trusts us with their hard-earned dollars, knowing we will multiply them and be accountable stewards. We know times are uncertain and challenging, and there are so many options for where to invest your money. By giving to United Way, you’re amplifying your impact and advancing solutions. Thank you for being a part of the Power of Caring. Working for All.”

“United Way of Dane County is the unifying force that brings together hundreds of local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, families, donors and volunteers to address big-picture issues no one person or organization can solve alone,” says Larry Barton, President and CEO, Strang, Inc., 2024 United Way of Dane County Campaign Chair. “I’m so grateful to have had the chance to lead this campaign, and thankful to every individual and organization who trusted us with their generosity this year. Because of you, we can create greater impact in Dane County.”

Thanks to the leadership of Larry Barton and success of our community campaign volunteers and donors, we’re empowered to continue addressing our community’s greatest needs. Through our Plan for Community Well-Being, we’re investing in local nonprofits working on family well-being in holistic and multigenerational ways – focusing on investing in and leading impact in the areas of youth opportunity, financial security and healthy community. And this year marks our first cycle funding local nonprofits that align with this plan.

“When people come together for good, we are greater. That’s why we partner with nonprofits across the community to address issues at every level, from expanding affordable housing to ensuring more children learn to read. We are proud to invest in known outcomes with a diverse group of
nonprofit partners, including services delivered by partners who haven’t always had access to various funding streams in Dane County. It is through these partnerships that we will amplify our community’s collective impact.” Says David Sweitzer, 2024 United Way of Dane County Vision
Council Chair.

At United Way, we’re so grateful to all who were able and willing to donate their time and/or dollars in 2024. Your gift, no matter the size, builds a future where everyone can thrive.

We’d like to give special recognition to the companies who contributed $100,000+ through corporate gifts, employee giving and special events:

  • American Family Insurance
  • TruStage
  • Partners in Giving: State, UW-Madison and UW Health Employee Combined Campaign
  • Exact Sciences
  • Zimbrick, Inc.
  • Christensen Associates
  • J.H. Findorff & Son Inc.
  • Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP
  • UW Credit Union
  • BMO
  • Madison Gas and Electric
  • Sub-Zero Group Inc.
  • Alliant Energy
  • TASC
  • M3 Insurance
  • First Business Bank
  • Hy Cite Enterprises, LLC
  • Summit Credit Union
  • National Guardian Life Insurance Company
  • Bankers’ Bank
  • WPS
  • Hooper Corporation
  • West Bend Specialty

To see a full list of campaign partners visit our website.

Thank you to our Celebration event sponsors, including: Presenting Sponsor, UW Credit Union; Community Sponsors, Alliant Energy, Madison Gas and Electric and Hiebing; Partner Sponsors, J.H. Findorff & Son Inc., Johnson Financial Group and Summit Credit Union; Media Sponsors, WKOW and Backyard Dream Productions; and Table Sponsors, American Family Insurance, Ascendium Education Group, BMO, First Business Bank, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin, Hausmann Group, M3 Insurance, McClone Insurance and National Guardian Life Insurance
Company.

2024 United Way Campaign Award Recipients
To see a full list of award recipients, honorable mentions and additional volunteer recognitions, visit our website.

Accelerating Impact Award: American Family Insurance, J.H. Findorff & Son Inc., TruStage, CAMECA Instruments, Inc., Godfrey & Kahn, SC, Church Mutual Insurance Company.
Celebrating companies who grew their financial impact most (through overall dollar amount and percentage) to create positive change in our community.

The Power of Many Award: Park Bank, Springs Window Fashions, Summit Credit Union.
Recognizing companies who grew their employee participation the most, engaging more people in supporting our community.

Innovation Award: Bankers’ Bank, Cummins, National Guardian Life Insurance Company.
Recognizes companies who are most committed to raising awareness and resources through new and creative strategies.

Advocate in Action Award: Karen Kallerud
Celebrating a campaign volunteer who is passionate about giving back, enthusiastic about engaging others in learning about our community and inspire everyone to give, advocate and volunteer.

Collaboration Award: Saving Our Babies (a coalition of healthcare providers, public health and nonprofits established by the Dane County Health Council focused on eliminating the racial birth
disparities impacting Black mothers and babies in Dane County).
Recognizing United Way partners who serve our community and facilitate collaborative action leading to meaningful change.

Give United Award: Atmus, Vesta.
Celebrates companies who joined our United Way family in 2024 with a first-time gift or employee campaign, investing in our community.

Affinity for Community Award: Summit Credit Union, Women United Council (for Women United at Work).
Celebrates community partners who are creating opportunities for employees to lead in their careers and through their philanthropy with United Way’s Lead United, Women United and LINC networks.

If you have questions or would like to set up an interview, please contact Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications, United Way of Dane County at (608) 416-0401 or Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org

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About United Way of Dane County

United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.

January 21, 2025: United Way of Dane County announces line up for 24th Annual Bluegrass Benefit Concert

United Way of Dane County announces line up for 24th Annual Bluegrass Benefit Concert

Madison, WI (January 21, 2025) – An afternoon of live, local music returns on Sunday, February 16, 2025, for the 24th Annual United Way Bluegrass Benefit at the Barrymore Theatre. The show features bands of the Southern Wisconsin Bluegrass Music Association, Inc. with support by WORT-89.9 FM, Isthmus and Sugar Maple Music Festival. Audrey Martinovich and Stephanie Benicek of Audio for the Arts provide sound and recording services.

“It’s a community event. It’s a place people can bring their kids at this time of year and have a great time for a great cause,” remarks Dave Kinney, an Oscar Mayer retiree and bluegrass fan who coordinates the annual benefit concert with musician Bob Batyko. Kinney was a United Way Loaned Executive for 12 community fundraising campaigns and remains a dedicated donor and volunteer.
Batyko is liaison to the bands and will play with two acts at this year’s show.

The annual event began as a family-friendly activity to build community during the winter and has continued to offer bluegrass fans, families and United Way advocates that opportunity over 24 years. Tickets are available at the door the day of the show. Cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5-12 and a maximum of $20 per family. Kids under age 5 are admitted for free.

The musical groups donating their talents on February 16 include:
1:00 pm The Grazers
1:45 pm SpareTime Bluegrass
2:30 pm David Landau, The King of Kids Music
3:00 pm They Talk TOO Much with special guests
3:45 pm Sorry Mountain
4:30 pm The Sandhill Strangers

For media inquiries and interview requests, please contact Ashley Manthei, Director of Communications, United Way of Dane County at (608) 416-0401 or Ashley.manthei@uwdc.org.

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About United Way of Dane County

United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community to close gaps and open opportunities so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibility. With a mission to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives, we work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues no one person or organization can address alone. Together, we are The Power of Caring. Working for All. Visit www.unitedwaydanecounty.org to learn more.

January 2025: Power of Caring. Working for All. In Action.

Power of Caring. Working for All. In Action.

At United Way of Dane County, we know that when more individuals have jobs earning family-sustaining wages and safe and affordable housing, they are less stressed and better able to provide for themselves and their families. That’s why our Plan for Community Well-Being focuses on a future where more families have what they need to become economically stable.  

When Sofia, a first-generation Mexican American decided she wanted to become a nurse to better support her family while pursuing a fulfilling career, she wasn’t sure where to begin. Through our HIRE program, we connected her with partners at Centro Hispano, where she was enrolled in the Caminos CNA program. While continuing to work as a lead crew trainer at McDonalds for six years – making $13/hour – Sofia worked hard to complete her high school education at Madison College and attended the Caminos CNA class three times a week. It was certainly not easy balancing it all, but Sofia persevered and graduated the program this past spring! And she recently accepted a full-time CNA position, earning $19/hour with benefits. Sofia hopes to continue her educational journey towards a nursing degree for herself and her family.  

We’re so proud of the role we were able to play in helping Sofia – and so many others. Thanks to your support, our HIRE program participants are empowered to grow into careers that support their families as they work to succeed in school, work and life. Together with our partners, we are helping more people reach their full potential through our Plan for Community Well-Being. And your continued support matters! Visit our website to learn more and make a gift today.  

January 2025: Join us for Community Celebration on February 25!

Join us for Community Celebration on February 25!

Join us to celebrate The Power of Caring. Working for All! We couldn’t do our important work without the support of our many partners – and this is our way of saying thanks. Thank you for all you do to spark real change across Dane County. We’ll share in good food and conversation, and celebrate the work you do to uplift family well-being across Dane County in 2025 and beyond. We hope to see you there!  

Tuesday, February 25    |    11:30 am – 1:30 pm    |    Monona Terrace    |    1 John Nolen Drive 

Event sponsorships are available! 

Event sponsorships are available! 

Join us as an event sponsor to receive recognition and benefits including a reserved table near the front for your team or group! Contact us for more information. 

January 4, 2025: Update: 66 Culver’s restaurants are now raising money for Madison school shooting families

Update: 66 Culver’s restaurants are now raising money for Madison school shooting families

A Culver’s fundraiser to benefit families affected by the Dec. 16 shooting at Abundant Life Christian School has grown beyond the Madison region to
include Culver’s restaurants across Wisconsin.

As of Friday afternoon, 66 Culver’s will be participating in Monday’s fundraiser, during which a portion of the day’s proceeds at each participating Culver’s will be donated to the United Way of Dane County’s fund to support Abundant Life Christian School families.

The percentage donated will vary, but each restaurant will display it, a Culver’s spokesperson said.

As of Friday afternoon, the United Way fund had collected $226,251.

Participating restaurants in the Madison area include those in DeForest, Cottage Grove, Cross Plains, Mount Horeb, all of the Madison Culver’s restaurants, McFarland, Middleton, Oregon, Stoughton, both locations in Sun Prairie, Verona and Waunakee.