Watertown United Way Achieves Milestone with Over $669,000 Raised for Local Impact in Record-Breaking Campaign

Watertown United Way wraps up its 2025-2026 campaign, celebrating a record-breaking achievement with over $669,000 raised to benefit local initiatives.

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown Area United Way officially marked the conclusion of its 2025–2026 campaign this week, announcing a staggering fundraising total of over $669,000. The announcement came during a celebratory evening gathering that brought together the donors, volunteers, and community partners responsible for the campaign’s success.

The funds raised will provide critical financial support to more than 30 local nonprofit organizations and programs throughout the Watertown area, ensuring that essential services continue to reach individuals and families in need.

Local Businesses Lead the Charge

Substantial corporate contributions and historic employee engagement strengthened the campaign’s success. First PREMIER Bank / PREMIER Bankcard emerged as a primary champion for the mission, pledging an impressive $155,000.

Joining the ranks of the “Top 5 Corporate Contributors” were Prairie Lakes Healthcare System and Watertown Ford Chrysler, both recognized for their long-standing commitment to community health and local service.

In terms of growth, two local firms stood out for their culture of generosity:

·        Austin Law Office received the award for the Largest % Increase in Employee Giving (Business Division) for the second consecutive year.

·        Office Peeps took home the honors for the Largest % Increase in Employee Giving (LE Division), cited for their team’s exceptional rally around the United Way mission.

Recognizing Individual Excellence

The heart of the United Way is its people, and this year, Kellee Dragt was named the Live United Volunteer of the Year. Dragt, the Development Coordinator at the Beacon Center, was praised for her immediate and proactive leadership. From the start of her tenure, she has worked to bridge the gap between local businesses and the United Way, advocating for the vital partnership between the organization and the Beacon Center.

A Decade of Design

This year also marked a milestone for one of the campaign’s most popular incentives. In partnership with Montgomery’s, the United Way celebrated its 10th Annual $5,000 Room Makeover. Casey Anderson was announced as this year’s winner, a tradition made possible by Montgomery’s decade-long commitment to rewarding those who invest in their community.

“It was truly a beautiful evening — one filled with gratitude, connection, and a shared commitment to making our community stronger,” the organization shared following the event. “Together, we celebrated what can happen when we unite around a common purpose.”

While the celebration marks the end of the formal campaign, the Watertown Area United Way emphasized that the work of uplifting the community continues year-round.