Kayce Halek

Kayce joined the United Way of Northeastern Minnesota team in September 2025. Kayce is an Iron Range native who grew up in Hibbing, MN. She has a bachelor's degree in Social Science from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities and  master's degree in K-6 Education from Concordia University. "I'm passionate about working with youth and families," she said.

UWNEMN recognized for disaster recovery work

In the wake of this spring’s wildfires, people from across the region, state, and even nation reached out to United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) to help however they could.

“The outpouring of support wasn’t just heartwarming,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. “It enabled our organization to help in tangible ways we haven’t always had capacity to do, and it was a testament to what is possible when we work together.”

August is “Make-a-Will Month”

There are many things to consider when constructing one’s will, and one of the most important aspects to think about is who to leave assets to - and how those assets will be used. 

A gift made to someone as part of a will is called a bequest.  Bequests don’t just have to go to people – they can also go to charitable organizations. A bequest to a charitable organization offers some advantages to both the donor and the recipient, including flexibility, tax advantages, recognition, and efficiency.  

New training series to empower local volunteers, nonprofits

Just in time for a new school year, UWNEMN is kicking of a new series of no-cost trainings for local volunteers and non-profits with a Board/Booster Boot Camp.

The training, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. August 11 at Minnesota Discovery Center, is open to any volunteer serving on a board of directors, booster, club, or parent-teacher organization serving the Iron Range, Koochiching County, or Lake of the Woods County.

Volunteers needed in Timber Mill Park

United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN)’s first-ever Born Learning Trail is coming to Baudette August 7th, and 30 volunteers are needed at Timber Mill Park to help make it happen.

United Way organizations across the United States utilize Born Learning Trails – a series of 10 interactive signs that transform everyday moments into fun and engaging learning opportunities for young children – as a community engagement and improvement tool. 

Financial support available for St. Louis County wildfire recovery

As community members begin to clean up and repair from recent wildfires in St. Louis County, UWNEMN is offering financial assistance to those whose primary residences were affected.

Eligible property owners can request up to $5,000 for recovery expenses including (but not limited to): insurance deductibles, cleanup, building materials, temporary shelter, and replacing damaged items.