Welcome to United Way of East Central Iowa, Emily!

Emily Grace recently joined United Way's Marketing and Communications team as our new Digital Media Specialist. Get to know a little about Emily by reading her responses below.

Tell us about where you’re from, where you grew up, etc.

I have grown up and continue to live in Marion, IA. It has always been home for me! I’m very close with my family. In fact, we all live within a couple miles of each other, which is definitely closer than most families.

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

One of my biggest hobbies is baking! I originally went to school at Kirkwood Community College for Baking and Pastry Arts. I enjoy baking, but absolutely love decorating! I also enjoy crafting, reading, and watching a good movie with popcorn and M&Ms.

Why did you want to work for United Way?

I wanted to work for United Way to help positively impact the community. I have a passion for helping others and I cannot think of a better way to use what I know to give back.

If you were a crayon, what color would you be?

Can I be one of those crayons that are multicolored? I think I would be royal blue, periwinkle (because who doesn’t love periwinkle?), a sunny yellow, and some type of teal or lime green. It may appear sort of weird, but overall I think it’s pretty interesting. Oh, and I think it would need to have some glitter mixed in, as well.

Who inspires you and why?

My mother and grandmother are two people who have greatly inspired me. I got my passion for baking from my grandmother at a young age, and my mother has shown me how to be selfless. They both have the ability to laugh at themselves, which I’m grateful to say is a trait that has been passed down to me!

 Where’s your favorite place in the world?

Besides Disney World, of course, I would say the east coast. I have family in Massachusetts and love going to visit them. Not only do I love being able to spend time with them, but of course enjoying the amazing fresh seafood.