WADENA — As strong partners in the community, United Way of Otter Tail and Wadena counties honored Wadena-Deer Creek School District and Tri-County Health Care with service awards.
The district earned the shining star award for their support of the community and working to improve lives locally. The hospital earned the rising star award for their campaign, volunteerism or another ongoing commitment to United Way.
For their partnerships in 2021, the district hosted the Backpacks for Kids (weekend meal) program and Coats for Kids.
The district’s overall campaign increased by 922% with an optional payroll deduction as well as joining the United Way Pacesetter campaign. The Pacesetter campaign begins prior to the annual fundraising campaign. WDC was one of 10 businesses in Wadena and Otter Tail counties who participated in the campaign.
“We enjoy working with the schools because it’s first-hand. They see the need that the kids are needing in town and … the schools are able to be able to give back to those kids. You’ll have teachers that will feel like they have to take money out of their own pocket to help a kiddo, where when they’re donating to United Way, they could be helping kids out in their community every day,” said Summer Hammond, Perham and Wadena area coordinator for United Way. “They can just continue to help those kiddos that they already appreciate so much.”
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As one of four rising star awards, Tri-County partnered on senior active mind kits, which reminded seniors how loved they are with crossword puzzles, word searches, playing cards, dominoes and blank cards. They are also one of the top 10 corporate donors. Tri-County earned both awards in 2020 as well.
“Tri-County had an amazing corporate campaign and had several members join our board,” United Way said in a Facebook post. “We are so excited for our future partnerships and your support of our mission!”
Mid-Central National Bank is also a top 10 corporate donor with United Way.
For more information on United Way, visit uwotw.org .
