Voices United
Meet the 2026 Philanthropic 5
June 18, 2026
The strongest leaders understand that success isn't built alone, and being a leader in philanthropy means focusing on building stronger, more inclusive, and equitable organizations and communities together. We are fortunate to witness the impact of these individuals every day within our community.
Each year, United Way's Emerging Leaders recognizes and honors community leaders who are dedicated to giving back, getting involved, and taking action for positive change. We celebrate the contributions of these inspiring individuals through our annual Philanthropic 5 and Philanthropic Youth awards. The Philanthropic Youth Award recognizes outstanding youth community leaders under 21 years old.
Meet our 2026 award winners: Marco Briceno, Mallory Deutch, Kat Klawes, Angela Quigley, Ricardo Wynn, and Philanthropic Youth winner, Madeline Peelen.
Join us at this year's event on Wednesday, August 5 at Prairie Springs on Park! Register here.
Thank you to our longtime event sponsor, BMO, and our media sponsor, Milwaukee Business Journal!
A Legacy of Partnership: Baird and United Way Continue to Lead with Purpose
Baird received the United Way Worldwide Leading Corporate Partner award at United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County's 2025 Community Campaign Closing in December 2025.
May 4, 2026
For more than a century, Baird has built a culture rooted in generosity, gratitude, and a deep commitment to community. That culture has not only made Baird a leader in business but has also shaped their long-standing connection with United Way. Through decades of partnership, Baird has remained focused on what matters most: creating meaningful change and investing in the well-being of the communities where its associates live and work.
A Lifetime of Impact: Celebrating Lynn Sprangers
April 10, 2026
Some leaders step forward. Others bring people with them. And then there are those rare individuals who do both – quietly, consistently, and with a deep belief in what’s possible when a community comes together.
This year, United Way is proud to honor Lynn Sprangers as the 2026 Linda T. Mellowes Woman Leader of the Year, recognizing not only her leadership but the lasting impact she has made on Women United, United Way, and the Greater Milwaukee community.
Our Stories: Why Rockwell Automation Supports United Way
February 19, 2026
Stories connect us, inspire action, and unite communities. They remind us of where we’ve been…and show where we can go.
Learn why Rockwell Automation supports United Way as employees share their stories.
Our Stories: Why We Support United Way
February 9, 2026
Stories connect us, inspire action, and unite communities. They remind us of where we’ve been…and show where we can go.
Learn why Dave Anderson, Rachael Chupka, and Danielle Schmitz choose to support United Way and why they believe in our mission.
How Rockwell Automation Strengthens Milwaukee Through United Way
January 27, 2026
Rooted in Milwaukee for more than a century, Rockwell Automation is investing in the community’s future by partnering with United Way to create lasting change.
Clarence Johnson Has Been Named the 2025 Recipient of the Linda McFerrin African American Nonprofit Leadership Award
January 19, 2026
Individuals honored through the Linda McFerrin African American Nonprofit Leadership Award have made extraordinary strides in leadership, volunteerism, mentoring, and philanthropy in Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha’s nonprofit community.
Saint John’s On The Lake: A Vibrant Senior Community Giving Back to Milwaukee Through United Way
December 15, 2025
At Saint John’s, retirement doesn’t mean slowing down. It means lifting others up.
2025 Campaign Closing Highlights
December 12, 2025
This year's Campaign Co-Chairs celebrated, along with our community, a successful 2025 Community Campaign last night at WEC Energy Group in Milwaukee.