SUMMARY
In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with Klair Black, Workforce Engagement Director at United Way of Central Minnesota. With a rich background in public relations and marketing from St. Cloud State University, Klair has channeled her skillset into nonprofit work to strengthen her community. The discussion covers her journey into nonprofit work, the various United Way programs, and how businesses and individuals can get involved in community giving. Klair highlights impactful initiatives like the Imagination Library book program, the annual Days of Caring volunteer event, and different charity drives. Listeners will also learn about the United Way campaign, how volunteers can participate, and the significance of understanding community needs with compassion. Klair emphasizes both monetary and non-monetary ways to give back, illustrating that even small efforts can make substantial impacts.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Klair Black and United Way
00:41 Meet the Hosts and Klair Black’s Background
01:11 Claire’s Journey into Nonprofit Work
04:13 Understanding United Way’s Mission and Impact
08:04 Fundraising and Community Engagement
09:11 Volunteer Programs and Community Drives
16:29 How Businesses Can Get Involved
18:12 Exciting Campaign Activities
19:01 Unique and Fun Events
19:56 The Rewarding Career of Helping Others
21:09 Networking and Community Involvement
21:37 The Mattress Program
24:49 Progressive Dinner Fundraiser
30:44 Understanding Community Needs
32:52 Ways to Give Back
33:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
TAKEAWAYS
Klair Black uses her PR and communications background to fuel mission-driven work in Central Minnesota.
United Way of Central Minnesota operates independently, keeping all donated dollars local.
Funding decisions are made through a volunteer-led review process, not internal staff.
Imagination Library provides up to 60 free books per child ages 0–5, entirely funded by local donors.
Days of Caring mobilizes 600+ volunteers annually, saving nonprofits over $85,000 in labor costs.
United Way runs seasonal drives—from school supplies to socks and underwear—to meet essential needs.
Businesses can get involved through workplace giving campaigns, volunteer projects, and custom engagement events.
The Progressive Dinner fundraiser is a unique, low-overhead event that directly supports Imagination Library.
Over 36% of local households are considered ALICE—working families still struggling to meet basic needs.
Anyone can make an impact by giving, advocating, or volunteering—small, consistent actions matter.
Moxie Creative, based in St. Cloud, Minnesota, is a full-service creative agency specializing in branding, web design, and both traditional and digital marketing.
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