MSA United Way Celebrates Another Successful Campaign at our Annual Luncheon 

Missouri Slope Areawide United Way unveiled its 2024 Campaign fundraising total during its Annual Luncheon & Meeting on Thursday, March 27, drawing over 500 attendees.  

The collective effort of individuals, businesses, agencies, and community members in Bismarck, Mandan, and neighboring areas propelled MSA United Way to raise an impressive $2,931,243.37. These funds will bolster programs tackling critical issues such as health initiatives, hunger, poverty, education, and homelessness.  

Executive Director Jena Gullo emphasized, “The community came together to tackle very important needs. It is important to work together to end hunger and homelessness, take care of our seniors and be proactive in targeting root causes. This event is the culmination of the great work this past year of our nonprofits and business community. There are many unsung heroes to recognize and celebrate.” 

In 2024, the impact of United Way's efforts was tangible: over 3.5 million meals were distributed through the school backpack initiative and to senior citizens, ensuring food security for vulnerable populations. The Center for Opportunity sheltered nearly 100 men, women, and families each night. The Center was the only 24/7 shelter in the region, offering 35+ onsite services provided by multiple agencies to help people out of homelessness. United Way raised funds and supported 42 programs. Additionally, 40,357 books were delivered to area preschoolers, fostering early literacy and learning.  

The event, hosted at the Bismarck Hotel and Conference Center, not only commemorated the achievements of MSA United Way but also recognized the invaluable contributions of nonprofit partners, volunteers, and donors. Top 20 business contributors were honored, alongside companies and organizations that demonstrated exceptional support for United Way in 2024.  

Funds raised during the annual campaign are instrumental in sustaining United Way programs and supporting partner agencies throughout the region. These agencies implement impactful initiatives that address the community's most pressing needs, prioritizing systemic solutions over superficial remedies and help to keep our doors open 24/7 for the homeless at our Center for Opportunity.  

 

First Lady Kjersti Armstrong

First Lady Kjersti Armstrong Delivers Welcome Address

 

Award Recipients 

Board President: Bryan Klipfel 

Campaign Co-Chairs: Dr. Steve Chuppe & Dr. Sarah Mack 

 

2024 Top 20 Contributors: 

  1. Basin Electric Power Cooperative 

  1. SCHEELS 

  1. MDU Resources Group, Inc. 

  1. Bartlett & West, Inc. 

  1. Bravera Bank 

  1. National Information Solutions Cooperative 

  1. Doosan Bobcat 

  1. Tom & Frances Leach Foundation 

  1. Eide Bailly 

  1. University of Mary 

  1. Bismarck Public Schools 

  1. Knife River 

  1. Sanford Health 

  1. BNI Coal 

  1. Gate City Bank 

  1. BNC National Bank 

  1. Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate - Alliance Group 

  1. Capital Credit Union 

  1. Stifel 

  1. North American Coal Corporation 

 

Best in Show - Corporate: Basin Electric Power Cooperative 

Best in Show - Small Business: Legacy Financial Partners of Ameriprise Financial – John Lenarz 

Best in Show - Employee Campaign: University of Mary 

Best in Show - United Way Agency: Youthworks 

Best in Show - Professional Division: Bartlett & West, Inc. 

 

Live United Awards 

  1. Insomnia Cookies 

  1. Doosan Bobcat 

  1. Family Wellness 

  1. Chick-Fil-A 

  1. Kirkwood Bank & Trust 

  1. Optimist Club of Bismarck 

  1. Deb Kroshus 

  1. SCHEELS 

  1. BPS – Jeannette Myhre Elementary 

 

Spirit of Bismarck Mandan: 

Bartlett & West, Inc. 

University of Mary 

 

Little Black Dress Awards: 

Fundraising Award: Vogel Law Firm 

Creativity Award: Bravera Bank