Last week, Governor Tony Evers proclaimed February 11, 2026, as 211 Day in Wisconsin, recognizing the importance of 211 in strengthening communities and improving lives across the state. Every day, 211 helps people in our community find food, housing, healthcare, and so much more. Merrill Area United Way is proud to support and be part of the 211 network, making it easier for everyone to access the help they deserve. In 2025, United Way’s 211 answered 324 requests for help from Lincoln County residents, providing 802 referrals to community resources. The number 1 referral in Lincoln County last year, was for housing.
On February 9th, we held our Annual Meeting. Several standard actions were taken including the election of new Board members. We are pleased to welcome new Board members, Korey Bloch, Sarah Brooks, Dave Graveen, Jennifer Porath and Cassie Raith. Joe Breaman II, Molly Lyon and Susan Ryman have agreed to serve another three-year term on the United Way Board. This fulfills our 21 seats on the Board of Directors. Our community is very blessed to have a dedicated group of individuals who believe in and volunteer for these important leadership roles as we work together to build a better future for all in our community.
With a welcome to new Board members, a farewell comes to those who will be leaving the Board. These individuals include Mandi Klockow, Jamie Koch, Nancy Kwiesielewicz, Clyde Nelson, and Janet Schreiber. Each departing Board member was recognized for their dedication and service to Merrill Area United Way.
Next came the election of the 2026-27 Officers and the Executive Committee members. They are President, Stacy Stevens; First Vice President, Kurt Rust; Second Vice President, Dave Vachavake; Treasurer, Brian Richards; Secretary, Leah Burbach; Past President, Joe Breaman II; and Executive Committee members: Maria Brickner, Becca Klessig and Shannon Murray. Following the election, Joe Breaman II was recognized for his outstanding leadership during the past year of serving as the organization’s President. Our Annual Meeting concluded with the transition in leadership from our Outgoing President Joe Breaman II to our incoming President, Stacy Stevens.
Prior to the Annual Meeting, several Board members gathered for a photo by our new United Way sign located on the Wisconsin Public Service property on East Main Street. We wish to extend a big thank you to Church Mutual Insurance Company, incrediblebank, and Wisconsin Public Service for sponsoring our new sign. Thank you to Premier for producing the sign and to a local contractor who wishes to remain anonymous for installing the sign.
The community is reminded that donations to Merrill Area United Way are accepted year-round and all dollars stay local to help your neighbors, family and friends. To donate send checks to Merrill Area United Way, PO Box 813, Merrill, WI 54452 or donate via STRIPE at https://donate.stripe.com/aEU6pq6m4fU36ZO9AA .
Together we continue to connect people with the opportunities they need to reach their full potential and make the greater Merrill area a place where everyone can thrive. Because, United is the Way.
For more information or to explore ways you can support Merrill Area United Way follow us on Facebook, visit our website at merrillareaunitedway.org or contact Debbie Moellendorf, Executive Director via email director@merrillareaunitedway.org or phone 715-536-2016.