New Staff Blog Post – Amy Grunewaldt, Director of Strategic Collaborations

This month, Amy Grunewaldt joined UWECI as the Director of Strategic Collaborations on the Community Building Team. Her primary responsibility will be to oversee the spark*5 initiative. Learn a little more about her below.

Tell us about where you are from, where you grew up, etc.

I grew up in Pierre, South Dakota. My parents are divorced, and I have 2 brothers and a half-sister. I spent as much time as I could at the river either boating or enjoying the beach.

What are your hobbies? What do you do for fun?

We are an outdoors family. We love to go camping in the summer and enjoy outdoor activities including biking, hiking, etc.

During the winter I enjoy skiing and snuggling up by the fireplace. My “happy place” is with my children so I truly enjoy all family activities!

Why did you want to work for United Way?

My personal mission statement is to inspire and challenge others to see their worth. I truly believe I am here to create processes and systems where children and families can thrive. My brain is very strategic and systematic, so the work United Way supports in fighting for education, financial stability, and health not only allows me to use my strengths but also aligns with my personal mission.

What is your favorite way to give back to your community?

I feel very blessed to have had the opportunity to support our community in many ways. I have had the pleasure and am still serving on multiple human service organization boards. I am also very connected to my children’s school where I serve on the PTO and volunteer for many events. And I like attending many different fundraisers throughout our community. I truly enjoy the variety of ways I can be connected to so many great organizations!

Who inspires you and why?

Wow, this is an interesting question. I could get very deep but to keep it simple I would say my mother! My mom was a single mom raising three children on a high school diploma. We had no money and she worked multiple jobs to keep us afloat. My mom sacrificed many things for herself to ensure our well-being. She is an amazing person!

Do you have any pets? Tell us about them.

I have a dog (shiatzu-bichon mix) named Gizmo because as a puppy she looked the Mogwai in the Gremlins movie.