Sioux Empire United Way is very grateful for the leaders of our community who give their time, energy, and passion to our organization. We are grateful for our Community Impact volunteers who give countless hours reviewing each funding application and for their guidance, professionalism and dedication to helping United Way continue to make an impact within the Sioux Empire. Each Community Impact team is led by a chair, during this Volunteer Spotlight segment let’s get to know these team leaders.
Jennifer Olson, PREMIER Bankcard, Community Impact Childcare & Youth and Children Education Chair
1. What do you look forward to during this time of year as a Community Impact Volunteer?
I enjoy connecting with the staff and other volunteers. We all have a common goal and work really hard to ensure the dollars raised by the community are put to the best use possible, impacting the most lives possible.
2. How has the change to online funding application helped your team?
I’m very excited about the new online funding review process. Having everything in one easy to navigate place will be helpful when reviewing applications. The new meeting format will also help the teams dig deeper into the programs and outcomes.
3.What program is the most heartfelt to you or that you have a personal connection to?
There are so many, but as a parent, I love the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. I remember the wonder and joy on my children’s faces when a new book arrived each month. Books and the gift of reading, what a simple way to connect to the kids in our communities and show them that we care. And don’t tell the kids, but they are learning in the process.
4.What does volunteering mean to you?
Our daily lives are so busy, focused on our own "stuff." Volunteering helps me feel more connected to my community and the lives of others.
5. How does your business/employer support your volunteer time in and out of the office?
First PREMIER Bank/PREMIER Bankcard, not only allow their employees to volunteer, they encourage it! Staff are provided with information about volunteer activities and are given paid hours to make a difference in the community. Denny Sanford, and all the Senior Leaders at First PREMIER Bank/PREMIER Bankcard are wonderful examples for all of us! I had done minimal volunteer work prior to my career at PREMIER Bankcard. The big shift for me was the PREMIER culture and encouragement around volunteerism, making an impact in the communities that we live in and love.