These 96 employees accounted for 1% of United Way’s entire area goal

This piece is presented by Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company. 

Howalt+McDowell Insurance, a Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC company, and its 96 Sioux Falls-area employees have pledged more than 1 percent of the total Sioux Empire United Way’s 2018 campaign goal.

United Way anticipates more than $10 million will be needed to fund over 80 community programs next year. Between employee giving and corporate gifts, more than $107,000 will be contributed to the organization through Howalt+McDowell, with an additional $26,200 matching contribution from Nationwide Insurance.

Plaid day for United Way

The organization’s strong support for the Sioux Empire United Way is a tradition that has been carried on for decades. This commitment was strengthened and solidified when Howalt+McDowell president Jeff Scherschligt first served as campaign chair 20 years ago. The agency boasts an impressive 100 percent employee participation rate for five years running, with an average employee gift of almost $1,000. Additionally, more than 65 employees are Heart Club members. Howalt+McDowell continues to rank in the top 20 for both employee-per-capita giving and total employee gifts to the Sioux Empire United Way.

“Participating in the Sioux Empire United Way is critical to our community’s and our organization’s culture,” Scherschligt said. “I believe it is vitally important that Sioux Falls realizes the importance of this history and continues to promote and nurture this culture. I continue to be proud of our employees’ commitment to the cause and the Sioux Empire community. Go, Howalt+McDowell! Go, Sioux Falls!”

D’one Hanisch, an account manager for Howalt+McDowell, served as this year’s United Way employee campaign manager. According to Hanisch, a number of tactics were used to engage employees’ interest and generosity. In addition to the traditional “rally week,” which included themed dress-up days and raffle prizes, several smaller fundraisers were held throughout the year. Howalt+McDowell’s United Way committee also has participated in agency tours offered by the the organization to learn more about the funded programs and the impact they have in the Sioux Empire.

“One person can’t do it all,” Hanisch said. “A passionate committee, along with support and buy-in from our leadership, has been essential in our successful employee engagement. Our executive team truly does lead by example; the enthusiasm and commitment they demonstrate to the cause is a big motivator.”

Sioux Empire United Way hopes to have the campaign effort wrapped up by the new year. Organizations and individuals interested in contributing can make a donation online. A $25 donation can provide meals for five children for an entire weekend, while $75 places 38 books in the hands of kids to increase literacy.

“Howalt+McDowell sets the bar high, year after year, during United Way campaign time. Its culture of giving starts at the top and is evident across the entire organization. In addition to 100 percent employee participation, its average gift per employee is consistently over $900,” said Olivia Essig, Sioux Empire United Way campaign director. “By setting and exceeding goals each campaign, Howalt+McDowell plays a tremendous role in the success of United Way and our over 80 funded programs. We appreciate its commitment to the community through support of Sioux Empire United Way.”

Howalt+McDowell president Jeff Scherschligt with the company’s United Way committee.

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These 96 employees accounted for 1% of United Way’s entire area goal

Every employee at Howalt McDowell has given to United Way for five consecutive years, with an average contribution of nearly $1,000. Here’s why.

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