Annual Meeting celebrates growth, new leadership and outstanding supporters
Interlakes Area United Way (IAUW) announced it will invest $169,250 into 29 nonprofit programs and organizations in 2026, marking a significant increase in community support and the largest funding total in recent years.
The announcement was made during IAUW’s Annual Meeting on February 9, where the IAUW board also celebrated impact made in 2025 and recognized outstanding local supporters.
The 2026 funding represents an increase of approximately $40,000 in community investments compared to 2025. It allowed IAUW to provide full or near-full funding to nearly every partner agency.
“This level of support shows what happens when our communities come together,” said Executive Director Karen Giles. “Every donation, volunteer hour and partnership helps improve lives across Lake, Miner and Moody counties.”
2026 investments
Funding was announced for 29 Community Partners that provide essential services throughout the Interlakes region. IAUW also reported that Community Partners collectively serve residents across all three counties, with strong regional reach and collaboration between organizations.
2026 Community Partners include:
- Boys & Girls Club of Moody County
- The Breadbasket
- Brookings Area Habitat for Humanity
- Children’s Care Corner
- Delta Dental Mobile Program – Madison
- Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
- Domestic Violence Network
- East Dakota Transit
- EmBe – Girls on the Run
- EmBe Education – Madison Early Learning Center
- Flandreau Early Childhood Learning Initiative
- Flandreau Public Schools Weekend Fuel
- Girl Scouts – Dakota Horizons
- High Plains Alternative School
- ICAP 60’s Plus Dining
- ICAP Head Start Pre-Birth to Five Supplies
- ICAP Volunteer Income Tax Assistance
- Interlakes Senior Citizen Center
- Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota: Mentoring at FMS
- Madison Baseball Association
- MMS Makerspace After School Club
- Moody County Child Protection Team
- ROCS Transit
- The Salvation Army
- Scouting America Sioux Council
- Team of Angels
- Trinity Lutheran Preschool
- Valiant Living
- The Wholeness Center
Giles said that United Way is also paying for the Delta Dental Mobile Program to return to Flandreau again this summer, though it will be paid using funds allocated in 2025.
Celebrating 2025 impact
During the meeting, attendees also reflected on the organization’s work throughout 2025. Highlights included:
- Sponsoring two Delta Dental Mobile Program visits, providing more than $50,000 in dental care to local youth
- Partnering with the American Red Cross and Madison Fire Department to install 71 smoke alarms in 35 homes
- Raising $48,800 through the WIN BIG Raffle
- Serving 259 meals at The Gathering in Madison through a partnership with High Plains Alternative School
- Raising $4,726 through Dine Out to Donate, bringing the event’s total impact to more than $33,000 since its launch
IAUW also announced updates to its website and branding, aligning with United Way Worldwide’s refreshed brand, while continuing to focus on its local mission of improving lives through community partnerships.
Recognizing Outstanding Supporters
IAUW honored local partners whose dedication and service helped advance its mission during 2025.
Outstanding Business Partner: KJAM Radio
KJAM Radio was recognized for its continued sponsorship and promotional support of United Way initiatives.Outstanding Volunteer: Madison Fire Department
The Madison Fire Department was honored for its leadership and volunteer service during the Sound the Alarm fire safety event, helping install smoke alarms and educate families about fire prevention.
“These supporters go above and beyond to help the community,” Giles said. “Their commitment shows the power of partnerships and volunteerism.”
New leadership and looking ahead
The Annual Meeting also marked a leadership milestone as Karen Giles was formally welcomed as Executive Director after serving as interim director since spring 2025. Giles brings more than 30 years of experience in education and community service.
IAUW also continues to seek additional volunteer board members to help guide the organization’s work and expand representation across Lake, Miner and Moody counties.
“Our goal remains simple,” Giles said. “We bring people together to help solve local challenges. When we work together, we build stronger and healthier communities for everyone.”
IAUW extends its appreciation to donors, volunteers, partner agencies and local businesses whose support makes these community investments possible.
