In Business Madison celebrated standout organizations and top executives in Wisconsin’s Capital Region during IB’s third annual Business of the Year Awards program, held amid a festive holiday atmosphere on Dec. 11 at the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center in Madison.

The event attracted a sold out crowd of 350 people, including business and nonprofit leaders and community members.

Nominations for the awards were submitted to In Business Madison, which chose finalists in each category. Organizations nominated were headquartered in Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Rock or Sauk counties.

A panel of three outside judges evaluated each of the finalists, then met virtually to compare scores and determine category winners. Each finalist was rated based on qualities including experience, service/product, accomplishments and charitable initiatives.

The six award categories included Executive of the Year; Small Business of the Year (1-50 employees); Medium Business of the Year (51-100 employees); Large Business of the Year (101+ employees); Family Business of the Year and Nonprofit Charitable Organization of the Year.

MADISON (WKOW) — In honor of Giving Tuesday, United Way of Dane County is shining a light on the impactful work being done to support the local community.

Jody Bartnick of United Way of Dane County shared insights into the organization’s focus on assisting children and families, particularly in areas like early childhood education, health, workforce, and housing.

“We see a lot of needs around housing, and really trying to help individuals get access to the resources that they need,” Bartnick said.

Thanks to Dan and Patty Raschke and the TASC Family Foundation, all administrative costs are covered, allowing 100% of donations to directly impact the community.

“The donations go to support many local nonprofits, and it’s an amazing time to give,” Bartnick said.

To contribute, individuals can visit here for donation options or explore volunteer opportunities. Additionally, those in need can access resources by calling 211.

Beyond the Title is a series of Q&As with alumni of Madison365’s Most Influential lists. 

Renee Moe (Wisconsin’s Most Influential Asian American Leaders, 2020) is President and CEO of United Way of Dane County, a leader in the worldwide United Way network and across the nonprofit sector. Charity Navigator recently recognized United Way of Dane County in the top three percent of U.S. nonprofits. A military kid who grew up on the three continents, Renee has a JBA in Journalism and Mandarin Chinese, and an MBA from UW-Madison. She has been recognized with the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, Wisconsin Women of Color Network Power of Unity Award, Brava Woman 2 Watch, UW Business School 8 Under 40, and served as President of Downtown Rotary.

What does presence before performance mean to you – and how do you stay grounded when the pressure to perform is high? 

Presence means noticing, authenticity and always doing your best to enable the best outcomes. I stay grounded through community listening and data, a clear strategy that responds and commitment to values. A top-notch team, supportive family and Taekwondo training help, too! Performance means getting results and making progress toward community goals, and that doesn’t happen without presence and the ability to stay grounded.

What’s the best advice you’ve received from a mentor? 

Family first, work second, everything else is a bonus.

MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) – United Way of Dane County celebrated the community on Wednesday and thanked those who make its mission possible.

People from businesses and neighborhoods came together at the Monona Terrace for the celebration. The event served as a way for United Way of Dane County to thank people for their generosity and volunteerism.

“It’s so inspiring,” said President and CEO of United Way of Dane County Renee Moe. “To really inspire that spirit of being a neighbor is so heartwarming.”

Moe emphasized the importance of people stepping up and volunteering.

“They’re stepping into community leadership, and that’s what it takes to make the right changes,” said Moe. “So, we’re incredibly grateful, so inspired, and that’s what it means to be the power of caring and working for all.”

Kim Sponem, the United Way Campaign Chair, said the organization is excited to celebrate where the campaign currently stands.

“We are at $9.5 million of our $17.5 million goal,” said Sponem. “That goal represents is helping thousands in our community, with a hand up, helping hand when things get rough in life.”

If you would like to donate to the campaign, click here.

MADISON (WKOW) — United Way of Dane County celebrated its community partners at an annual luncheon, with hosting help from 27 news Evening Anchors Brandon Taylor and Amber Noggle.

Renee Moe, United Way of Dane County president and CEO, expressed gratitude for the support United Way has received.

“Today is all about the hundreds of people who volunteer their time, their energy, the businesses who allow their employees to give, and every resident who contributes to making our community strong,” Moe said.

As a newer nonprofit ourselves, Isthmus is proud to support the volunteer-powered organizations that provide important services to our community. You can be a part of their success by finding a group that inspires your passion and making a commitment of your time and talent. Isthmus is grateful to Park Bank and the other sponsors who make this guide possible.

FOUNDED: 1922

HOW WE HELP: United Way of Dane County mobilizes the caring power of our community so all can thrive. From advancing health and education to strengthening livelihoods and local resilience, we connect people to possibilities. Our mission — to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives — is rooted in innovation and action. By collaborating with diverse partners, we deliver forward-thinking solutions and results that improve health, education, financial stability and local resilience.

THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFT: When you give to United Way, 100% of your gift transforms lives through our Plan for Community Well-Being. Last year, your support reached 82,329 neighbors across Dane County. Over 29,000 individuals and families maintained stable housing, reduced family homelessness and secured full-time employment at $22-plus an hour. Eighteen thousand neighbors received mental health support, and access to health insurance and quality healthcare. Nearly 8,000 children advanced in early childhood education, literacy, math and critical thinking skills, college and career readiness and family engagement.

WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT US:

• Donate and support our Plan for Community Well-Being. One hundred percent of your donation powers meaningful action and transforms lives.
• Volunteer and make a difference this season through our Holiday Wish List at volunteeryourtime.org.
• Attend our events: Community Celebration, Day of Caring event, Women United Brunch and much more!
•  Join a donor or volunteer network: Lead United, Women United, LINC for Young Professionals, Business Volunteer Network and Retired Employees Are Dedicated Individuals are all ways to get involved.

DONATE NOW: https://www.unitedwaydanecounty.org

United Way Dane County
2059 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI 53704
unitedwaydanecounty.org