October 2025
Campaign season is in full swing, and the generosity across Story County continues is inspiring. To every company and organization running a United Way campaign—thank you. Your leadership fuels the work that helps individuals and families find and sustain stability right here at home. Every dollar raised stays right here in Story County, strengthening and expanding the programs and services our community needs most.
That same spirit of growth and collaboration inspired the creation of the Frankee Oleson Collaboration Hub at 317 Clark Avenue in Ames. An expansion of our office footprint at 315 Clark, “The Hub” is a carefully crafted space designed to bring volunteers, nonprofits, and community leaders together to spark new ideas for serving Story County. Dedicating this space to former CEO and President Frankee Oleson is a tribute to her unwavering belief that community betterment requires collaboration, courage, and commitment. We hope everyone who walks through those doors carries Frankee’s legacy forward, using the space to create lasting, positive change.
With National Philanthropy Day approaching on November 15, I can’t help but feel grateful for the incredible generosity that defines Story County. Everywhere I look, people are finding ways to give back—from ongoing workplace campaigns to ISU Greek Life’s homecoming food drives and volunteer groups creating literacy and snack kits. Calls about holiday giving are already coming in, and it’s clear our community’s philanthropic spirit never takes a break.
Philanthropy is strongest when it’s put into action. Right now, local food pantries are experiencing a significant need for volunteers to help staff their sites, stock shelves, and process donations. About 30% of people living in Story County experience food insecurity, and most pantry visitors stop by only once or twice a month—reminders that even brief moments of support can make a lasting difference.
Your generosity creates real, tangible outcomes: more children receive literacy tutoring and out-of-school learning opportunities, more seniors enjoy home-delivered meals, and more individuals have access dental care without insurance barriers. Each one of these moments contributes to a stronger, more connected Story County, one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
As we move forward into this season of gratitude, I encourage you to stay active, stay engaged, and continue leading with compassion. United is the Way.