Federated Insurance Invests in Minnesota’s Youth and Mentoring with the Federated Challenge
December 19, 2023, Katie Huynh
We had much to celebrate with our Board of Directors during December’s Board meeting last week! Julie Rethemeier, Director of Public Affairs & Advertising, came along with Roger Bailey and Jeff Fetters from Federated Insurance to personally share the incredible news – a staggering $2.1 million gifted to Big Brothers Big Sisters Twin Cities from the overall total of $4,012,000. This gift is an incredible investment in Twin Cities youth and the future of youth mentoring co-created with youth.
Big Possibilities, Bright Futures. That was the theme for this year’s Federated Challenge, an annual two-day gala and golf tournament hosted by Federated Insurance benefitting Big Brothers Big Sisters. Since 2005, this event has been a cornerstone of support for youth mentoring, raising more than $52 million in its 19 years.
Julie used three words to describe the 2023 Federated Challenge: cohesive, seamless, and WOW. But really, we can use those same words to describe Julie’s pivotal role in the longstanding success of the Federated Challenge as well. Julie also took a moment during the meeting to announce her retirement from Federated Insurance after 35 outstanding years of service.
The success of the Federated Challenge is attributed to the year-long coordination efforts, spearheaded by Julie. What makes this event truly exceptional is their commitment to covering expenses, ensuring that 100% of the funds raised go directly to Minnesota’s Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies, the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America network, and our Federated Challenge Scholarship supporting Littles pursuing post-secondary education.
In a world of impact and philanthropy, Federated Insurance has truly stood tall as a beacon of generosity and dedication as one of our largest and longest partners. Federated Insurance’s instrumental role in amplifying the power and potential of Twin Cities youth has truly embodied our mission of being #BiggerTogether. The impact of this enduring partnership resonates beyond numbers – it’s a story of collaboration, compassion, and a shared vision for a brighter future.
As we bid farewell and extend our congratulations to Julie Rethemeier, whose leadership and passion have played a critical role in our partnership with Federated Insurance, we also express our admiration for her 35 years of service. Her dedication has left an indelible mark on Federated Insurance, the Federated Challenge, and the lives of countless young individuals in the Twin Cities.
Thank you, Federated Insurance and Julie Rethemeier, for being steadfast allies in our mission to uplift Twin Cities youth. Together, we’ve created a legacy that will continue to transform mentoring for years to come. The impact and potential of this generous gift are profound — big possibilities and bright futures are precisely what this gift will unlock.
Watch this video to relive the highlights and emotions of the 2023 Federated Challenge.
