Meet WLI Member Wendy Nielsen
Nick and Wendy Nielsen with their sons Roman and Connor.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My husband, Nick, and I met at Coe College and married more than 12 years ago. We currently live in Marion with our two adorable boys, Roman (7) and Connor (4). Needless to say, there’s never a dull moment with a house full of boys (even our Yorkie is male)! I have worked for Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust for the past 15 years, and currently serve as Vice President of Marketing. In my free time, I love creating memories with the kids, getting away for a few girls’ weekends, decorating my home, and entertaining friends/family with good food.
What’s something unique that people don’t know about you?
I was adopted from Seoul, South Korea, when I was six months old and grew up in a small town in North Central Iowa called Belmond.
What causes are you most passionate about?
I am passionate about improving the lives of women in our community. Women are powerful and impact their loved ones’ lives. However, they can’t do it alone. It starts by taking care of themselves and reaching out for help/resources when needed. That’s why I proudly support WLI, as well as serve on the Waypoint board.
Why did you get involved with United Way and WLI?
I have been very fortunate to work for a company that understands, supports, and instills the value of giving back to our community. I have become more involved with United Way as I have learned more about the critical role it plays in supporting partner agencies – specifically those addressing unmet healthcare needs for women right here in our community. Women helping women. It became very clear to me that WLI’s mission aligned with my personal values as a woman, wife, mother, and friend.
Do you have any advice for others who want to be more active in the community?
Align your time and talents to causes you are passionate about or want to learn more about. Your experience will be that much more rewarding.