Over 200 people registered for Lead United’s Small Plates, Big Impact: A Flannel & Fireside Soiree event. Attendees gathered at Barnwood Events on October 29 for conversation, community and a touch of fall-inspired fun while celebrating the difference Lead United members make across Dane County.

The Leading with Heart Award recognizes individuals and households who give with their whole hearts. They have gone above and beyond in their commitment to community and demonstrate the many ways leadership giving can create impact. These honorees represent different paths to deeper impact, from philanthropy and advocacy to connection and leadership. Their stories remind us that there is no single way to make a difference.

As United Way’s annual campaign season gains momentum, the success of our work depends on dedicated leaders who inspire others to get involved, give back and strengthen our community. One of those leaders is Raj Ravi, a member of Lead United, a Women United Ambassador and Employee Campaign Manager (ECM) at Hooper Corporation.

For nearly three years, Raj has helped lead Hooper’s United Way campaign, bringing energy, creativity and a passion for community impact to her role. Through employee education, relationship-building and collaboration with current donors and volunteers, she helps connect colleagues to the many ways they can support United Way’s mission.

At Hooper, Raj has helped cultivate a culture of service that is both meaningful and engaging. Working alongside a dedicated team of volunteers and HR staff, she supports special events tailored to employee interests. These activities not only generate excitement during campaign season but also create opportunities for employees to learn about the impact their generosity has across our community.

Raj’s passion for United Way’s work is rooted in its focus on financial security. She believes financial stability is often at the core of the challenges families face and has gained a deeper understanding of those realities through her involvement with United Way. While she feels fortunate that her own family has not experienced many of those hardships, she recognizes the importance of helping build a community where everyone has the opportunity to achieve financial security and a brighter future.

Raj has taken her involvement to the next level by becoming a Women United Ambassador. Women United Ambassadors serve as champions for Women United, helping to grow membership, connect women to meaningful volunteer and networking opportunities and share the collective impact women are making through philanthropy and service. In addition to serving as an ambassador, Raj recently joined Women United Membership & Engagement committee, further strengthening her commitment to engaging others in United Way’s work.

Volunteering has had a meaningful impact on Raj’s life. Through her experiences, she has developed an even greater appreciation for the people who dedicate their time to helping others. One of her favorite aspects of volunteering is connecting with fellow volunteers and learning about their unique experiences that inspire them to give back. Her involvement with United Way has also made service and philanthropy a regular topic of conversation at home, where she hopes to teach and model a strong sense of empathy, gratitude and community involvement with her children.

Raj’s leadership reflects the power of engagement beyond the workplace campaign. By investing in both philanthropy and service, she is helping build a stronger network of advocates who are committed to creating lasting change.

“To me, philanthropic leadership is about using your voice, relationships and influence to make a difference and encourage others to get involved,” Raj says. “One of my favorite parts of my job is leading the United Way campaign at Hooper. We start planning months in advance, and it is a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together around a common cause. Whether it’s through your time, resources, relationships or voice, everyone has a role to play. When we each do our part, we can make a lasting difference in our community.”

As we continue through campaign season, we are especially grateful for leaders like Raj who make others feel personally invited to engage in community Raj’s commitment reminds us that when people step forward to lead, they inspire others to do the same.

For Kurt Hedstrom, giving back through United Way of Dane County is both personal and purposeful.

A longtime supporter through Hooper’s workplace campaigns, Kurt deepened his involvement by joining the Lead United Council in March 2026. His connection to United Way’s mission began years earlier when his family benefited from a United Way-supported health service during a pivotal time in their lives.

“Seeing firsthand the impact United Way can have on families inspired me to give back and support its mission,” Kurt said. “Joining Lead United was a natural next step, allowing me to play a larger role in supporting an organization that has made such a positive difference in our lives.”

Kurt is especially passionate about youth-focused services, including health, educational and activity-based programs. As a parent whose son benefited from health services and as a longtime youth coach, he has witnessed the importance of ensuring these resources are available to every young person in the community.

He believes meaningful change happens when people work together. Through his involvement with United Way, Kurt hopes to raise awareness about available services while helping advance initiatives that strengthen Dane County.

“Volunteering has reinforced my appreciation for the powerful impact United Way programs have on families throughout our community,” he said. “Seeing the gratitude and positive outcomes these programs create has been both inspiring and rewarding.”

Kurt’s mindset is simple: leading by example through community service and helping those who need it most.

Lead United is proud to welcome Tony Shepherd, a project manager at Findorff, to the Lead United Council. Tony brings a passion for growth, precision and community impact to both his professional and philanthropic work. 

“I’m honored to join Lead United Council to help support the work of United Way of Dane County,” Tony shares. “I moved to Madison 14 years ago chasing a dream of finding my own path in an ever-changing world and feel fortunate to have met many influential people and been provided opportunities that have shaped who I am today. I recognize that it remains critical to ensure all who choose to call Madison home receive the same opportunities to thrive.” 

Driven by a desire to make a lasting impact, Tony encourages integrity, curiosity and purpose in every challenge he takes on. Specializing in healthcare construction, he thrives in environments that push him to think critically, adapt quickly and lead with intention as he guides complex projects from concept to completion. 

Tony’s approach is rooted in a deep commitment to people and community. “I’m committed to ensuring our community remains inclusive of the variety of backgrounds, differences and originality of its occupants that makes Madison the incredible place to live that it is,” he says. “The foundation of our community is built on togetherness, innovation and challenging the status-quo, needed now more than ever.” 

A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in Civil Engineering, Tony has long been driven by a love of building. From his leadership on the nationally recognized Concrete Canoe Team to designing and building his own home in DeForest with his wife, his hands-on approach reflects both creativity and discipline. 

That same commitment carries into his community involvement as he joins the Lead United Council, expanding his dedication to service in Dane County. “By continuing to invest in our community, supporting one another and remaining connected we can positively impact the challenges we currently face and inspire others to join in the action,” Tony adds. 

Tony is eager to contribute to United Way’s mission and create meaningful change. “I’m excited to contribute to the critical work of United Way of Dane County, achieving measurable results that changes lives and inspires each of one us to be the best version of ourselves.” 

Corbin McGuire’s commitment to community started years ago during his time in Milwaukee when he was introduced to United Way through a workplace campaign. What began as a simple contribution soon grew into a deeper connection as he saw the clear impact United Way was making. When Corbin moved into his current role as an Analyst at Walleye Partners in Dane County, keeping that partnership going was an easy choice. He believes strongly in United Way’s strategic approach and its ability to address the most pressing needs wherever you call home.

One of Corbin’s biggest passions is housing stability. Having lived in several different areas, he has seen how a lack of safe and affordable housing sets off a chain reaction that affects nearly every part of a person’s life. To Corbin, a stable home is the foundation that allows people and families to thrive.

Corbin sees his role in Dane County as one of connection and advocacy. With experience supporting United Way in multiple cities, he knows firsthand how coordinated giving can drive meaningful systemic change. He aims to use his voice and professional network to bring more people and more resources into the effort

Volunteering has also shaped who Corbin is today. Instead of focusing on problems, he focuses on people. Listening to the community has pushed him to challenge assumptions and approach his work with greater empathy and curiosity. It’s helped him grow as both a leader and a community member.

For Corbin, philanthropic leadership means moving beyond writing a check. It’s about active investment through mentorship, advocacy and partnership. It’s about showing up in a way that encourages others to do the same.

He joined Lead United because he’s ready to take that next step. After years of receiving opportunities from the Madison and Dane County community, Corbin wants to deepen his commitment and contribute to the place he has always considered home.

Corbin first came to Dane County as a UW–Madison student, spending four years on campus as a member of the UW Men’s Ice Hockey team where he learned the value of resilience and teamwork. Today he continues to pay that forward by coaching and staying involved in local youth and high school hockey. He brings that same team-first mindset to his work with Lead United.

We’re excited to welcome Jason Hiller of Hausmann Group to the Lead United Council in 2026. A long-time supporter and volunteer with United Way of Dane County, Jason brings deep experience and a passion for service that has shaped his involvement for nearly two decades. 

Jason’s journey with United Way began in 2008 when he was introduced through an employee giving campaign at The QTI Group. “Back then I was early in my career and didn’t have a ton – well any, really – of extra money, but I believed the work United Way and their partner agencies were doing in the community was super important,” he says. He started giving a little from each paycheck and soon became involved in workplace campaign planning and young professional networks like Rosenberry Society. Today, Jason serves in several volunteer positions that help us engage with our community, as Co-Chair of the New Business Development Committee, on the Business Volunteer Network Executive Committee and he serves as a Lead United Ambassador. He has also served on Rosenberry Society Council, Key Club Council and is a founding member of our Lead United Council. 

Jason’s commitment to service is rooted in his own experiences growing up with a single mother in Janesville. His family relied on nonprofit services, and programs like YWCA and Boys & Girls Club provided safe spaces and opportunities during his childhood. “Even as a recipient of services, my family always taught me to find a way to give back,” Jason shares. That lesson continues to guide him today. 

Outside of United Way, Jason is passionate about Alzheimer’s advocacy. After losing his grandmother to Alzheimer’s, he began volunteering with Spry Society, a social group for families facing early-stage diagnoses. Although the group dissolved during the pandemic, Jason shifted his focus to advocacy, lobbying for research funding and caregiver support. “I’ve learned that even small contributions can create meaningful change,” he says, reflecting on the impact of his volunteer work. 

Jason sees his role in Dane County as one of connection and impact. “My goal is to help connect resources with those who need them most, ensuring that individuals and families feel supported during challenging times,” he explains. To Jason, philanthropic leadership means leading with empathy and vision, inspiring others to join in creating sustainable, positive change. 

When he’s not volunteering, Jason enjoys Madison’s parks and dog-friendly spaces with his Siberian husky pup, exploring local farmers’ markets and running a side hustle as a Pampered Chef consultant. His goal is simple: spend less time cooking and more time making memories around the table, building community.  

Earlier this year, Erica Mullins was announced as the new President and CEO of Strang, the first woman and interior designer in the company’s history. Recently honored on the In Business Magazine Power 100 list, Erica is defined as a leader who is driving economic growth and helping shape our community into a thriving place to work, learn and live.  

Erica has been a dedicated supporter of United Way of Dane County for the past 11 years. Her first introduction to United Way came through Strang’s workplace campaign and what began as a simple payroll deduction quickly grew into a deeper commitment to community involvement. Over the years, she has taken on various volunteer roles, became an active member of Women United, helped lead her company’s campaign, became a Lead United Ambassador and most recently joined the Lead United Council.  

One cause that resonates deeply with Erica is housing. She’s passionate about ensuring everyone has a safe place to live and has come to understand how stable housing affects nearly every aspect of life, from health and financial stability to childhood development and education. “Seeing how all of that connects back to something as basic as housing has really stuck with me,” she says. 

She believes that meaningful change happens when people come together to share their time, resources and voices. Her goal is to support initiatives that make a tangible difference and to encourage others to get involved alongside her. Volunteering has become a grounding experience, offering perspective and gratitude. “Every time I volunteer, I’m struck by the generosity and selflessness of people who are working so hard and often quietly, on behalf of others,” she reflects. 

To Erica, philanthropic leadership means leading by example, not just through giving, but by inspiring others to give of themselves. It’s about building a culture of generosity and shared responsibility. That’s why she originally joined Lead United through the United Way Step-Up Program, seeing it as a natural next step in her journey to give back as her career progressed. 

Erica has called Dane County home for the past 11 years and her appreciation for the area runs deep. She finds joy in the simple beauty of the lakes, whether it’s boating or walking along the shoreline or enjoying the vibrant local food scene. One of her favorite places to recharge is Morton Forest in the Driftless Region, especially during the fall when the colors are at their peak. For Erica, Dane County isn’t just where she lives, it’s a place that fuels her passion for connection and creativity. Her story is a testament to how small actions can lead to lasting impact and how one person’s commitment can inspire a ripple effect of generosity throughout the community.

From chili cook-offs and jeans days to council meetings and community impact, Amanda Palovcsik’s journey with United Way of Dane County has spanned over two decades and it’s still evolving. Her story began in 2004 with a workplace giving campaign and began giving through payroll deduction. “Starting with an amount I was comfortable with helped me build a habit of giving,” she recalls. But it wasn’t just the ease of giving that drew her in, it was the fun, connection and purpose behind each event. “There’s something about a little friendly competition that brings people together, especially when it’s for a cause we all believe in.” 

In 2019, Amanda became more involved in the mission when she served as a Loaned Executive through TruStage (formerly CUNA Mutual Group). “While I thought I knew about United Way of Dane County, being a Loaned Executive opened my eyes,” she says. The experience left a lasting impact, deepening her understanding of the challenges many in our community face and inspiring a lifelong commitment to giving back. “It was empowering and humbling and something I’ll always be grateful for.” 

Now, as a new member of the Lead United Council, she’s connecting with fellow community leaders and finding inspiration in their stories and shared dedication. She’s particularly passionate about financial security and reducing homelessness, issues she sees as foundational to long-term community well-being. “When a family has safe, stable housing and a little financial breathing room, everything starts to shift. Parents can focus, kids can grow and whole neighborhoods thrive.” 

To her, making a difference isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about showing up consistently, staying informed and giving in ways that align with her values. “I try to be intentional about where I give and why. It’s about supporting long-term change, not just quick fixes.” Whether through her volunteerism, conversations with others or simple acts of kindness, she sees herself as someone helping to build a stronger, more connected Dane County. 

Her approach to philanthropic leadership reflects those values: it’s about engagement, humility and lifting others up. “It’s not just about donating. It’s about using your time, your ideas and your energy to support others. It’s about making sure everyone has the chance to shine.” 

A proud Dane County resident since 2003, she loves introducing visitors to the magic of Madison, whether it’s the Farmer’s Market, Concerts on the Square, Badger games or sledding in the winter. And when it comes to United Way events, she and her partner Greg look forward to Lead United: Small Plates, Big Impact every year. “The only thing better than supporting a cause that makes a difference,” she says, “is doing it alongside great food and even better company.”