The iWealth Holiday Food Basket program raises $11,725 in 15th year, supporting the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center’s tireless work in the community.
Since 2009, iWealth has been working with the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center, WANSC, each year bringing hope and food to Waseca County residents. On Tuesday, Dec. 4, the local Financial Planning firm once again helped by presenting a check for $11,725 to WANSC, symbolizing the generosity of those who gave to this year’s iWealth Holiday Food Basket program. The gray skies and chilly weather outside did nothing to dampen the mood inside.
iWealth’s Chief Executive Officer, Brad Connors said, “It is heartwarming to see our clients and business partners continue to collaborate with our iWealth team to support Waseca area families so that everyone can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with loved ones. We are thankful for each and every person who supported our Holiday Food Basket program in 2024, as well as those who donated over the past 15 years.”
The donation total includes a $3,000 matching contribution from the iWealth Foundation, which allocates one percent of its net profits annually to these efforts. The iWealth team members themselves put an additional $800 towards the grand total, as well as 60 clients and business partners resulting in the cumulative donation amount for 2024, and exceeding a grand total of $130,000 over the past 15 years.
Brad Connors continued, “Initially we sent letters to our clients who were local. Now we have clients from the far and wide giving to this.” Although a little emotional, Trudi Connors added, “This is very near and dear to my heart,” slight pause here, “some donations were coming in from as far as Arizona, and Cindy does such an amazing job with this.”
Cindy Kolander, the WANSC Executive Director said, “The Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center is so thankful for the support that iWealth has provided for the Holiday Food Baskets and Backpack programs. These programs are essential in providing food support to families during the Christmas holiday and students throughout the school year. We hope to continue this partnership for many years to come. When people come by, whether they just lost their job or whatever, that’s what we’re here for. We help people when they need it.”
Baskets will be assembled on Friday, Dec. 13 by Waseca High School students and other committed volunteers, to be distributed on Saturday, Dec. 14 by Scouts BSA Troop 85. These Christmas meals will go to over 230 Waseca area families, which is around 600 people total. All remaining funds go towards the WANSC Backpack program, which is distributed through Waseca schools to hundreds of children weekly.
Matt Potter, Chief Operating Officer of iWealth, said, “At iWealth, one of our core values is supporting our local community. Initially this program solely provided Holiday meals for Waseca Area residents, but through everyone’s generosity, we’ve been able to grow and support WANSC’s food backpack program for Waseca Area students as well. Given the rising cost of living that everyone is facing, we are incredibly grateful for all who selflessly contributed to ensure others are blessed this holiday season and throughout the year.”
If you would like to help area families, it’s not too late. WANSC is still accepting donations either online or by mail. To give online visit https://givebutter.com/FcUW2X and select the iWealth Holiday Food Basket fund. To give or by mail, please send a check to WANSC, 203 3rd Avenue NW, Waseca, MN 56093, with “iWealth Holiday Food Baskets” in the memo line
