August 13th, 2020
Over $175,000 pledged at hybrid event
MANKATO—Area women are continuing their strong support for Greater Mankato Area United Way programs, pledging over $175,000 so far as part of the 11th annual Women with Heart Luncheon that took place August 5.
The pledging is on track with last year’s record amount, despite approximately 150 fewer attendees and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Most of this year’s 500-plus attendees participated remotely via Zoom. A limited number of guests attended in-person at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center, following health guidelines and social distancing.
“We had to think outside the box to ensure this essential event could happen, and we couldn’t have done it without the support of our dedicated sponsors, volunteers, in-kind donors and attendees,” said United Way CEO Barb Kaus.
This year’s Women with Heart event focused on finding hope in challenging times. The event was chaired by Maria Brown of Exclusively Diamonds.
Women with Heart kicks off region-wide pledging for United Way’s 2021 campaign, which will support 56 programs within 36 agencies serving Blue Earth, Le Sueur, Nicollet and Waseca counties. The 2021 campaign goal is $2,060,000.
“The generosity of women in our region is incredible,” Kaus said. “This year, it is more important than ever for our community to keep our programs strong. Women continue to step up to the challenge and are making a lasting impact with their support.”
To donate to the United Way campaign, please visit www.MankatoUnitedWay.org/donate, call 507-345-4551, or send check to United Way at 127 S. 2nd St. #190, Mankato, MN 56001. Online pledge form available at www.MankatoUnitedWay.org/pledge.