Celebrating Wendi Ames: A Farewell Tribute to Her Lasting Impact at United Way of Southeastern Idaho

POCATELLO, ID, December 24, 2024 – United Way of Southeastern Idaho announces with bittersweet emotion the departure of Wendi Ames, the remarkable Director of Donor and Community Engagement. After seven transformative years of service, Wendi will conclude her impactful journey with the organization at the end of this year.

During her tenure, Wendi's leadership and dedication left an indelible mark on the community and the organization. She is more than a colleague, she is a mentor, a friend, and a champion of United Way’s mission. Every project she led and every relationship she fostered reflects her unwavering commitment to making Southeastern Idaho a better place for all.

Wendi's influence extends beyond her professional accomplishments. Her warmth, creativity, and steadfast belief in the power of connection have shaped a culture of collaboration and hope. The relationships she built and the initiatives she championed have strengthened the foundation of United Way’s mission, ensuring her legacy will endure for years to come. While her absence will be deeply felt, her colleagues and partners eagerly celebrate the exciting new adventures awaiting her.

Before she embarks on her next adventure, Wendi offers a heartfelt reflection on her time with United Way and the magic of possibility:

The Magic of Possibility

As I reflect on my journey with United Way of Southeastern Idaho, there is a word that keeps coming up when my colleagues and partners talk about my contributions: magic. To be honest, most days it doesn’t feel like anything extraordinary to me—it’s simply the belief in what’s possible. But as I pause to reflect, I can see and feel that magic too.

It’s the magic of believing that one more person might give a meaningful gift that changes the trajectory of someone’s story.

It’s the magic of hoping that one more corporation might use ALICE data to leverage wage increases, giving families a chance to thrive.

It’s the magic of imagining that one more local leader might stand up and advocate boldly for local kids growing up without access to resources.

I’ve always said that our community is just the right size. Here, change doesn’t feel impossible; it feels achievable. And it happens through the magic of connection and in people believing in one another, in their neighbors, and in what we can create when we join in together and break down the silos.

Thank you for honoring my "magic." In truth, it has always been a reflection of the incredible people I have worked alongside—each of you. Your belief in me, in the mission of United Way, and in our shared vision for a better Southeastern Idaho has been the foundation of everything we’ve accomplished.

Watching the growth of our fundraising and impact efforts has been inspiring, but what has moved me the most are the stories. Stories of neighborhood kids, grandparents, veterans, and individuals whose lives have been transformed by an incredible network of local nonprofits—the most passionate people I have ever known that fight tirelessly to serve others and keep their doors open. One of the most humbling aspects of this work has been seeing how small, collective efforts can support monumental change. Whether it’s a workplace auction, an online donation, a smiling volunteer, or a simple yet meaningful payroll deduction, this community shows up in ways that truly make a difference. When we believe in the magic of possibility, when we come together as a community, all things truly are possible, and lives are transformed every day. I am continuously proud of this community—the way SE Idaho so easily rallies around projects and programs that matter, empowering those in need is creating a stronger future for us all.

Here’s the next big question: How do we inspire our community to go further, break through barriers, and stand unwaveringly for those who cannot advocate for themselves? Our neighbors are working hard and are still unable to meet their family’s basic needs. Let’s continue to be a community that doesn’t just see struggles but actively listens and works to create real, lasting change. Maybe you ask yourself: How can my voice, my actions, and my choices create greater impact for others, what is your magic? Imagine—our resilient, compassionate, and driven community—if we fully embrace the magic in the power of possibility.

Let’s keep pushing forward—for brighter futures, stronger families, and infinite possibilities. Thank you for believing in this vision and for inspiring me to dream of what just might be possible…

As I step forward into the next chapter of my life, I carry with me the belief that magic exists in all of us. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of this journey, and for inspiring me to see and honor the magic in each of you.

With heartfelt gratitude,
Wendi Ames

As United Way of Southeastern Idaho bids farewell to Wendi, the organization expresses profound gratitude for her unparalleled contributions. Her vision and dedication have been a beacon of inspiration. The team wishes her all the best in her next chapter, confident that she will continue to create magic and transform lives wherever her journey takes her.

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