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United Way of Racine County announces first-ever statewide community Upskill-A-Thon challenge encouraging career skill building

Jan. 26, 2026 (Racine, WI) — 

United Way of Racine County is excited to announce the launch of the first Community Upskill-A-Thon, a statewide challenge designed to empower Wisconsinites to gain in-demand skills and advance their careers through the completion of no-cost courses on CommunityUpskill.org. This challenge and overall initiative were designed by United Way Fox Cities in partnership with United Way Wisconsin and Microsoft.

Starting February 1 through March 31, 2025, Racine County residents, as well as other Wisconsinites, are invited to compete by completing free online courses and earning points by building new skills. At the end of the challenge, the top five learners with the most points will receive cash rewards:

  • 1st Place: $1,000

  • 2nd Place: $500

  • 3rd Place: $250

  • 4th Place: $100

  • 5th Place: $50

CommunityUpskill.org offers flexible, self-paced courses in English and Spanish, covering topics such as digital literacy, business, technology, and professional development. Microsoft provided key funding to support the development of this initiative.

Learners can earn industry-recognized credentials through the completion of specific courses offered. All classes are free to take, which helps them stand out in today’s competitive job market. 

“We're pleased to share this opportunity with Racine County residents," said Alexa Haigh, president and CEO of United Way of Racine County. “The statewide Community Upskill-A-Thon makes learning flexible, accessible, and rewarding. Participants can build real skills on their own schedule, and the cash prizes add an extra incentive to take that next step toward personal and professional growth.”

Steps to Participate: 

  1. Visit CommunityUpskill.org to learn about the available courses and learning paths. 
  2. Complete this form to register for this Upskill-A-Thon: https://wkf.ms/4jpF4zE
  3. Sign up for a FREE LinkedIn account or sign into your own and choose what courses and/or pathways you would like to start. Only Community UpSkill courses count points in the Upskill-A-Thon.
  4. For EVERY course or pathway you complete, you will be asked to take a screenshot or download your certification and submit this form: https://wkf.ms/4sApTrR
  5. Wait to hear from us through your preferred method of contact if you are a winner. 

Whether you’re a student, a professional seeking advancement, or someone starting your digital journey, this challenge is your chance to learn, grow, and earn rewards.

For more information and to get started, visit CommunityUpskill.org.

Interested in helping out?