Melissa Kadlec

Senior Corporate Relationship Officer

Inspiration: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”— Margaret Mead

What working in this community means to me: “Community is something I’ve chosen for myself through a process of self-discovery. Being part of a community means being a part of something greater than yourself. It’s about sharing, growing and opening up to who you are and what you believe in.”

Melissa is responsible for the year-round relationship management of United Way’s top corporate partners. She oversees year-round giving, sponsorships, volunteerism and employee engagement for these companies. Melissa connects each corporate partner’s mission and passions to the important work of United Way.

She has previously worked at two nonprofits: The American Cancer Society and Duluth Sister Cities International, where she served as executive director. Prior to Melissa’s nonprofit work, she was a public and government relations manager for a national cable company.

Melissa lives in south Minneapolis with her husband, Keith. She has two young adult children, Kristina and Andrew. Melissa adores traveling and will go anywhere for an adventure! Cooking for family and friends makes her happy, too.