June 19, 2024 


JANESVILLE 

 

United Way Blackhawk Region says it has a buyer for its building on North Main Street, along the Rock River in downtown Janesville, as it moves ahead with plans to relocate to an as-yet unnamed site.

CEO Denise Peters- Kauihou told The Gazette Wednesday that purchase of a new site should be finalized by Aug. 1. She would not disclose the new address.

The nonprofit organization said in a release Wednesday that a sale is pending for its current 8,193 square-foot-building at 205 N. Main St. The board of directors voted unanimously in December to sell it for $625,000.
 
The building was constructed 1966 and purchased by United Way of North Rock County in 1988. In 2012, Stateline United Way and United Way of North Rock County joined together to form United Way Blackhawk Region, and staff from both entities came together at the downtown Janesville location.

Starting June 24, staff will be working remotely “until the new building renovations are complete,” Board Chair Dan Williams said in the release, calling that “a highly effective, short-term solution that reflects our commitment to a seamless transition and responsible stewardship of donor dollars.”

In the past, small nonprofits occasionally leased offices space in the North Main Street building but rental interest has waned post-pandemic as teams pivoted to remote work, the organization said.

“United Way’s staff and volunteer leadership agree, the time and labor-intensive responsibilities that come with serving as a landlord are not core to UWBR’s mission,” the release said.

“This decision has been years in the making,” Greg Ardrey, chair of United Way’s volunteer Building and Property Committee, said in a December release. “Fortunately, United Way’s strong financial position has afforded us the opportunity to take our time, carefully considering our options and conducting due diligence.”

“Only 22% of the building is currently being utilized,” Ardrey added at the time. “The space is too big for our needs. We’re keeping all our options open but relocating to a smaller facility could conserve operational expenses and generate funds for our endowment.”

 “Strategically, it makes sense,” Williams said. “UWBR’s strong financial position enabled us to carefully consider our options and perform our due diligence. Our board is pleased with the outcome and is looking forward to a more centrally located space in the Blackhawk Region.”

The mailing address will remain United Way Blackhawk Region, PO Box 8443, Janesville, WI 53547.

 

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