Wealthyist E50 | More Than A Check: How Wealthy Are Rolling Up Their Sleeves With The United Way
In this engaging episode of Wealthyist, hosted by Anthony Mlachnik (Senior Wealth Advisor at Annex Private Client), he interviews Karisa Gretebeck, Manager of Volunteer Engagement at United Way in Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County. With nearly 15 years at United Way, Karisa shares her journey from a small nonprofit to embracing the organization's global reach, brand strength, and collaborative impact in creating positive community change.
The conversation centers on evolving philanthropy among wealthy individuals, families, and corporations. Key highlights include:
- A growing desire for hands-on involvement beyond financial donations—volunteering, personal engagement, and exposing children to giving back to build a family culture of philanthropy.
- United Way's shift toward targeted "key initiatives" (e.g., eliminating family homelessness, stable employment, technology access, and health/well-being), allowing donors to see direct, systemic impact rather than contributing to a general fund.
- Corporate partnerships remain a cornerstone, with tailored workplace campaigns, volunteer events, and creative activations (e.g., packing meals or backpacks during company conferences or celebrations). Examples include manufacturers donating overstock products and a shoe company leadership team personally fitting donated shoes at a homeless resource fair.
- The intangible benefits of giving: mood boosts, mental health gains, social connection, and modeling values for employees and children.
- Creative giving ideas, such as donating appreciated stock or using donor-advised funds for tax advantages, and rolling commissions into community foundations (as Anthony notes with Annex's approach).
- Opportunities for deeper involvement via leadership donor networks (e.g., Women United, Technology United, Leadership Society) for high-level givers ($1,200+ annually), offering social events, advocacy, and focused issue dives.
- Practical starting points: Reflect on personal passions, browse United Way's website for volunteer/advocacy options, and connect with resources or consultants for guidance.
Karisa emphasizes that small commitments (even an hour a month) create ripple effects, and United Way excels at listening to align opportunities with personal/company values. Anthony ties it to broader wealth strategies, like tax-smart giving and leading by example.
The episode closes with touching stories of impact—like a young girl joyfully choosing her own daisy-patterned backpack—illustrating how collective small actions transform lives and inspire ongoing generosity. It's an inspiring look at modern, multifaceted philanthropy that goes far beyond writing a check.
