Supporter Spotlight: Racine County, Susan Carreño and Racine County Food Bank

Racine County: Stronger Together Through Collaboration

A thriving community takes collaboration, and Racine County is an important partner in that work.

Through its partnership with United Way of Racine County, the county helps bring people, information and resources together to respond to community needs. That collaboration includes the Equity Innovation Fund, along with information and data sharing that helps strengthen our understanding of local challenges and opportunities.

When SNAP benefits were delayed during the government shutdown, the partnership became especially important. Sharing information and coordinating efforts helped community organizations respond to the concerns of residents who rely on food assistance.

Racine County’s support extends beyond its institutional partnership. County Executive Ralph Malicki, Hope Otto, Travis Richardson and many other county employees are dedicated supporters of United Way and its mission.

Whether through collaboration, community leadership or individual generosity, Racine County demonstrates what’s possible when partners work together to help our community thrive.

Susan Carreño: Quietly Making a Big Difference

Some volunteers make a difference in so many ways that it’s hard to keep track of everything they do. Susan Carreño is one of those people.

Susan supports United Way of Racine County’s work across education, financial stability and community investment. As a Schools of Hope tutor, she helps students build the skills and confidence they need to succeed. As a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) tax preparer, she helps community members navigate tax season and access a service that can make a meaningful difference in their financial well-being.

She also serves on UWRC’s Volunteer Advisory Team, contributing her time and perspective to help guide volunteer engagement and funding decisions.

Susan doesn’t seek the spotlight. She simply shows up, shares her time and skills, and helps make our community stronger.

Her commitment is a reminder that community impact isn’t always loud or highly visible. Sometimes, it’s built quietly, one student, one tax return and one thoughtful decision at a time.

Racine County Food Bank: Helping Put Food on the Table

Access to food is a basic need, and meeting that need takes a strong network of community partners. Racine County Food Bank has long been an important part of that network alongside United Way of Racine County.

By distributing tons of food to local food pantries, Racine County Food Bank helps get food into the hands of organizations serving Racine County residents experiencing food insecurity. Those pantries are an essential link between a steady supply of food and the neighbors who need it.

The work reaches beyond moving food from one place to another. It helps local organizations respond to immediate needs, supports families facing difficult circumstances and strengthens the community’s collective ability to care for its residents.

UWRC is proud to partner with Racine County Food Bank. Together with local food pantries and other community organizations, this work helps make sure more Racine County residents can access the food they need.