We recently sat down with Zeni Aly, longtime United Way of Olmsted County employee and donor, to talk about her passion for our organization and our community.
Q. You've been a United Way employee for several years and give a lot of yourself to our work in that way. Why do you also donate?
A. Working for United Way has allowed me to see firsthand the tangible impact that our programs and initiatives have on the community. I donate because I believe in the work we do. My contribution is a way to extend my commitment and ensure that the programs I care deeply about can continue to thrive. It’s one thing to contribute through my job, but making a personal donation is an extra step in aligning my values with action.
"It’s one thing to contribute through my job, but making a personal donation is an extra step in aligning my values with action."
Q. Why do you think it's important to give back to your community? Why have you chosen to do so through United Way?
A. Giving back to the community helps strengthen the bonds between individuals and improves the overall well-being of the place where we live. Through United Way, I can support a wide range of initiatives—like education, financial stability, and health—while being sure that my donation is used in the most efficient and effective way possible. United Way’s approach is comprehensive, addressing multiple layers of need, which is why it’s the perfect avenue for me to give back.
Q. What area of UWOC's work do you feel most passionate about? Why?
A. I’m most passionate about United Way’s efforts in early childhood education and youth development. When children are supported from a young age, it can set them up for success in adulthood, impacting not only their futures but the future of the entire community. I believe that investing in children creates a ripple effect of positive change.
Through United Way, I can support a wide range of initiatives—like education, financial stability, and health—while being sure that my donation is used in the most efficient and effective way possible.
Q. How has being a United Way donor impacted your life?
A. Being a United Way donor has been one of the most rewarding experiences for me. It’s a way to amplify the work I already do as an employee and make a lasting impact. Knowing that my contributions—both time and financial—are part of something bigger than myself gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Q. What do you think it means to Live United?
A. To Live United means recognizing that we’re all connected, and that when we help others, we help ourselves and our communities become stronger. It’s about coming together, regardless of our individual backgrounds, to work toward a common good. When we Live United, we understand that collective action can lead to lasting change.