Learn more about this month’s Women United Member, Felicia Richardson, and what she’s most passionate about.

Tell us about yourself. What do you do for fun? 

After graduating from Kirkwood, I started working for Cargill. They had a tuition assistance program, so I went to Mount Mercy College to obtain my bachelor’s degree while working full-time and taking care of my daughter. I am now retired and loving it!

My husband and I like to spend our free time camping and traveling with friends and family—my family consists of a son, a daughter, one grandson, and two granddaughters! When I’m home, I enjoy going to Tae Kwon Do classes to keep active and to keep learning in general.

What’s something unique that people don’t know about you? 

I grew up in Eldon, IA—it’s the small town in southeast Iowa with the American Gothic house.

What causes are you most passionate about? 

I am most passionate about helping women move forward in their lives and making sure they have the resources they need to do what they are passionate about. Women have come so far since I started working but there is more that needs to be done so women can be comfortable in whatever it is they want to do.

Why did you decide to get involved with United Way and Women United?

I have been giving to Women United (formerly WLI) through United Way for a few years, but I initially wanted to find out more about what it all meant to be involved and how I could do my part to help the community.

Do you have any advice for others who want to be more active in the community?

There are a lot of different organizations in the area that can use any type of help—volunteering your time or whatever talent you have. The Women United group has been very welcoming, and I am sure you will find that in any group you volunteer with. Jump in and see what you can do!