History

Our United Way started in 1969. Penny Johnson, the first Executive Director, felt Brainerd residents needed to join forces and rally together to raise money for non-profit agencies that were helping many in need.

In 1969 the drive was set at $45,000 and achieved.

The Brainerd United Way was changed to Crow Wing County United Way in 1995 to accommodate the growth and change in our community.

Early in 2003, United Way of America introduced the "what matters" brand advertising campaign. The message is clear: Investing in United Way is the best way to make a difference in the community because United Way is focused on what matters most: results.