2026 June Volunteer of the Month - Sharon Fiedler

Some of the most important volunteer work happens quietly behind the scenes. It may not receive much recognition, but those acts of service are often what keep nonprofits running and strengthen the fabric of our community. At United Way of Greater Yankton, we believe every volunteer makes a difference, whether they're leading a major initiative or faithfully tackling the tasks that make others' work possible. In June, we were proud to recognize someone whose humility, reliability, and servant's heart have made a lasting impact throughout Greater Yankton — Sharon Fiedler.

Sharon was nominated for her willingness to step in wherever she is needed. In just the first half of the year, she volunteered well over 100 hours with organizations including St. John's Lutheran Church, Yankton Food for Thought, Yankton Area Arts, United Way & Volunteer Services of Greater Yankton, and Yankton County 4-H.

When United Way lost funding for its Volunteer Coordinator position, Sharon quietly resumed a role she had previously filled years earlier by entering volunteer hours into the organization's database each month. She has also assisted with projects like Stuff the Bus and encouraged other nonprofits to report volunteer hours, helping better capture the incredible spirit of service throughout our community. As shared during her recognition, sometimes it's about faithfully doing the work that allows others to succeed. Those quiet acts of service create a ripple effect that reaches far beyond what most people ever see.

We asked Sharon to share more about her volunteer journey and what service means to her:

I have lived here in the Greater Yankton area since:

I have lived in Yankton all my life, graduated from Yankton High School, and worked at Vishay Dale Electronics for 34 years.

I began volunteering:

After I retired from Vishay in 2006. I started at The Center helping with Tuesday night bingo, and it just went on from there.

I volunteer at:

Yankton Food for Thought, helping with both Sack Pack and the Food Pantry; Yankton Area Arts as a docent in the gallery and with the Crimson Door; United Way, where I enter volunteer hours and help wherever I'm needed; and St. John's Lutheran Church, serving on the Funeral Committee by coordinating salads and cakes and assisting with funeral meals.

Approximate hours per year that I volunteer:

About 275 hours.

Volunteer work is enjoyable because:

I have met so many people through my volunteer work that I never would have otherwise. Plus, it is a nice feeling knowing I am able to help people who really need it, and it is helping the Yankton community.

My best volunteer experience was:

I really enjoy seeing all the kids that come with their parents to the Food Pantry every month. They are so excited to pick out the food they like.

The advice I would give to those thinking about getting out there and volunteering in their communities is:

If you are able to volunteer, I would suggest you find something that interests you and just start. Once you do, you will never regret it.

Volunteering just makes you feel good! Thank you, Sharon, for your generous heart, your quiet leadership, and your unwavering commitment to serving others. Your willingness to step in wherever you're needed continues to make Greater Yankton a stronger, kinder, and more connected community.

To learn more about local volunteer opportunities or to nominate someone for United Way's Volunteer of the Month Award, please visit www.yanktonunitedway.org/volunteer, email volunteer@yanktonunitedway.org, or call United Way & Volunteer Services of Greater Yankton at (605) 665-6766.