Mikala Peterson Named Director of Donor and Community Engagement at United Way of Southeastern Idaho

New UWSEI Director of Donor and Community Engagement, Mikala Peterson

POCATELLO, ID, March 4, 2025 – United Way of Southeastern Idaho is excited to announce that Mikala Peterson will be stepping into the role of Director of Donor and Community Engagement, effective April 1, 2025.

Mikala, who has been with United Way since December of 2022, originally joined the team as Office Manager. In April of 2024, she took on additional roles, serving as Manager of the TMC STEM Trailer and Bannock County Early Learning Cohort Coordinator. Her contributions to early learning initiatives have been instrumental in strengthening partnerships with early learning and childcare business partners, while also playing a pivotal role in United Way’s early childhood programs alongside Education Director Tennille Call to expand resources and enhance support systems for young learners and their families.

“In my new role as Director of Donor and Community Engagement, I look forward to maintaining and expanding relationships across our seven counties by serving as the bridge between United Way of Southeastern Idaho, businesses, community members, and nonprofit organizations,” Peterson said. “United Way has a unique ability to foster connections that close divides, strengthen our sense of community, maximize resources for nonprofits, and advocate for the most vulnerable among us. At the end of the day, I believe a community that lifts one another up in times of need defines our character in the most beautiful way.”

CEO Shantay expressed confidence in Mikala’s ability to advance the organization’s mission and emphasized the value Peterson brings to the role:

“We are beyond excited to see Mikala step into the role of Director of Donor and Community Engagement! Since joining us, she has brought forward innovative ideas and created efficient processes that have strengthened our operations. Her passion, creativity, and commitment to our mission make her the perfect fit for this role, and we can’t wait to see the incredible impact she’ll continue to make in our community!”

As Mikala transitions into this leadership position, she will focus on strengthening donor relations, expanding community engagement efforts, and fostering partnerships that drive sustainable impact across southeastern Idaho. United Way of Southeastern Idaho looks forward to the continued growth and innovation she will bring to the role.