Lead United
Accelerate Change, Together.
Who We Are
Lead United is a network of more than 1,400 households across Dane County that are committed to accelerating change, together. As United Way of Dane County’s largest donor base, we are a network of caring philanthropic leaders dedicated to tackling the toughest issues facing our neighbors.
What We Do
Through leadership gifts of $1,000+ annually (or $40 per paycheck), Lead United members invest in making Dane County a place where everyone has what they need to thrive. Through our collective investment, we empower United Way to create long-term change for local families through the Plan for Community Well-Being. And we gather throughout the year to learn, engage and connect as a community.
A MESSAGE FROM PATRICK DOWNEY
Council chair, Lead united
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, SPECTRUM
“It is an honor to serve as Chair of the Lead United Council for the 2026 campaign. Lead United is a network of donors whose support significantly accelerates United Way of Dane County’s impact in our community. This impact changes lives every single day. I invite you to join us in our efforts, at our events, and in our belief that connections build a better Dane County.”
Why Members Invest
- Addressing root causes of generational poverty. Our gifts support a strategy built on collaboration, efficiency and accountability, tackling Dane County’s toughest issues at their source, not just the symptoms.
- 100% goes to impact. Thanks to a generous gift from the Dan & Patti Rashke (TASC) Family Foundation, every dollar of your undesignated, individual gift is invested in impact.
- Meaningful connections with a powerful network of caring, high-impact leaders who share your commitment to change. Our Leadership Spotlight Series and private LinkedIn group keep us learning from and connected to each other.
- We stay informed with access to a dedicated staff liaison and regular opportunities to learn more about changing community needs and the results of our investments.
- We stay engaged through group volunteer projects and complimentary tickets to Small Plates Big Impact, our annual recognition event.
Join Us!
Donate $1,000+ annually to join Lead United and put your giving to work where it matters most or Step-Up over time and grow into your leadership gift over three years. Sponsored Match Funds boost your impact in the first two years!
United Way Step-Up Program
Your leadership-level impact can start today, even if you’re not there yet.
The United Way Step-Up Program lets you grow into a $1,000+ annual gift over three years, and a sponsored Match Fund boosts your giving to full impact from day one. That means from the moment you enroll, your gift goes to work at the $1,000 level, even as your own investment grows to meet it. Here’s how it works:
Year 1
Give $500+
and matching funds double your gift, boosting your impact to $1,000
Year 2
Give $750+
and matching funds boost your impact to $1,000
Year 3
Give $1,000+
You’ve fully stepped up into leadership giving!
United Way Step-Up Match Fund Sponsors
Ascendium Education Group • Findorff • M3 Insurance • Madison Gas and Electric • Vogel Bros. Building Co.
Lead Through Volunteerism
In addition to special volunteer opportunities for Lead United, you can find ways to get involved year-round on VolunteerYourTime.org
Lead United Events
We look forward to offering a variety of networking, educational and professional development events this year. Click below for more details!
Supporting the Future of Dane County
The United Way Foundation exists to support United Way’s mission of improving lives and strengthening Dane County. Through the Foundation, individuals and families can leave a lasting legacy of caring.
Testimonials:
Satish Pilli
Production Scientist
Exact Sciences
"I am able to reach my life goals with the help of people around me and it’s time to give back. Alone I can I can help someone but being part of Lead United we can accelerate the impact together."
Keri Allard
Director of Client Services,
SustainableHR PEO, LLC
"Giving at the Lead United level with United Way of Dane County allows me to make a direct, meaningful impact in our community. I know my contribution is strategically invested in programs that tackle critical issues like youth opportunity, financial stability, and community health. It’s inspiring to see real, measurable change right here in Dane County. Plus, being part of this group has deepened my connection to local leaders who share a passion for making a difference. Supporting Lead United isn’t just about giving—it’s about building a stronger, healthier future for everyone in our community."
Brianne Gauder
Vice President of Employee Benefits Operations
M3 Insurance
“I know that I can't change the world but by offering my time, my experience, my financial support, I can change something for someone. I can be a voice or a set of hands for someone that needs help. If you are always giving back, picking people up, bringing people along with you as a leader, you can not fail.”
Special Thanks To Our United Way Step-Up Program Sponsors!
