1986 Founding Board of Directors

Our sincere appreciation is extended to Sue Liapis, our founding board members, and the George W. Nielson Foundation,  for the vision, passion and commitment to United Way and improving lives in the Bemidji community!


Front Row (Left to Right):  Kevin Cease, Campaign Chair; Tim Campbell, Ralph Smith, Mark Dickinson, Arden Phelps    Back Row (Left to Right):  Ruth Edevold, Lee Swanson, Gail Skare, Sue Liapis, Doug Peterson, Ruth Hulbert, Les Duly, Ed Hart.  Not pictured:  Phil Bain and Herb Riedemann

1987 - First United Way of Bemidji Area Campaign


The first United Way Campaign kicked off in September 1987, with the theme, "Love Makes the Difference" and a goal of $103,000 ($63,000 was raised the first year). 
(Pictured left) Occupational Development Center employees Christi Hale and Dave Halverson help volunteer Mark Elliot and campaign chair Kevin Cease put the first United Way of Bemidji Area campaign goal sign up. 




The first volunteer campaign cabinet included: 
Campaign Chair - Kevin Cease
Small Business Division - Pat Knoer
Public Service Division - Dorothy Boe
Special Gifts Division - Carolyn Dondelinger
Professional Division - Jean Parkin
Communications Division - Evie Goplin
Agencies Speaking Out - Rikki Fred-Bohan and Mary Eaton
Hospital Division: Larry Wollmering
Major Gifts Division:  Herb Riedemann
Restaurant Division:  Mark Elliot and Alan Goldberg

1987 United Way of Bemidji Area Partner Agencies