OUR 2025-26 THEME
OUR AREAS OF IMPACT
We measure success in four impact areas by focusing on solutions that deliver measurable results. These areas include:
Healthy Community
Youth Opportunity
Financial Security
Community Resiliency
COMMUNITY IMPACT
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Community Members Who Receive Warm Winter Wear Annually1000+
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Annual Household's Supported Through Food Drops2,200+
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Summer 2024 Traveling Tree House Attendees1,500+
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Students Receiving Weekend Backpack Meals1000+
WAYS YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
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Looking for volunteer opportunities? Find ways to serve through United Way and other local non-profit organizations in Douglas and Pope Counties.
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You can support United Way by attending one of our annual fundraising events! From Golf Events and Trap tournaments to PaddleFest and Chili Cook-offs! See Calendar.
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United Way fills critical gaps across our region. You can help by first learning about our programs and then sharing these resources with those in need. Learn more.
Latest News & Updates
Lakes and Prairie United Way is responding to the federal government shutdown’s impact on food access across Douglas, Otter Tail, Pope, Todd, and Wadena Counties. More than 10,700 residents rely on SNAP benefits now at risk. Learn how we’re strengthening community resiliency, coordinating local food resources, and supporting families through our Community Resiliency Fund.
United Way Lakes and Prairie hosted the First Annual Chili Cook-off in Perham, Minnesota at the Perham Area Community Center. Ten teams and nearly 100 attendees joined for an evening of food, fun, and community impact. Winners included Perham Health, PACC, and the Perham Chamber. Funds raised support United Way programs that strengthen youth opportunity, financial stability, healthy communities, and community resiliency across the Lakes and Prairie region.
The 26th Annual United Way Chili Cook-off served up bold flavors, creative displays, and strong community spirit. With over 250 attendees and 18 participating teams, this board game-themed fundraiser brought people together to support United Way programming focused on youth opportunity, healthy communities, financial stability, and community resiliency. See who took home the trophies and get a behind-the-scenes look at this year’s event.
