OUR STORY

VinE was founded in 2008 by H. Arthur Dale, who collaborated with school and community leaders in northeastern Minnesota to develop VinE's free tutoring program. VinE's vision of connecting community members to their local public schools by providing student academic support has driven the free tutoring program ever since. Since 2008, hundreds of volunteer tutors have shared their time, knowledge, and expertise with thousands of students, helping improve student success. VinE tutors support students in the St. Louis County Schools, Mountain Iron-Buhl Public Schools, and the Rock Ridge Public Schools. During the 2024-2025 school year, VinE volunteers supported over 600 students monthly. VinE continues to grow with the community's financial support. Its major funders are The United Way of NE MN and The Northland Foundation. Significant support comes from private donations and other local foundations.

OUR MISSION

Volunteers in Education engages the community in the education of its students, supporting their growth and preparing them for productive citizenship.

MEET THE TEAM

Teresa de Venecia

Executive Director

Teresa has spent many fulfilling years as an educator and school leader. Her passion is creating learning opportunities beyond school classrooms. Teresa joined VinE in January 2023.

Sarah Kangas

Program Director

Sarah lives in Cherry and is an active member of the Cherry community. She brings a unique blend of technology experience and a strong passion for community engagement. As a parent of three, she has served on local boards focused on youth sports and expanding opportunities for young people. She is dedicated to supporting students' learning and growth, believing in the power of education to create meaningful change. Sarah joined VinE this year.

Leigh Zika

Chair, Board of Directors

A retired teacher/school librarian, mother and grandmother, Leigh has deep roots in the educational landscape, particularly in helping young people develop their strengths and embrace new learning. Leigh joined VinE's team of Board Directors in August 2022.

Debra Warner

Treasurer, Board of Directors

In December 2022, Debra became the Vice Chairperson of VinE. With extensive experience as a clinical psychologist, her valuable ideas and insights are crucial to the VinE Board.

Nathan LeBeque

Secretary, Board of Directors

Nathan joined the VinE Board in December 2022. He is VinE's Secretary and is kept very busy! Nathan is a retired Educator from Virginia, MN. Nathan has been a Board Director since December 2022.

Anita Skenzich

Vice Chair, Board of Directors

Anita brings decades of classroom experience, specializing in Reading instruction for young learners. She cares deeply about our local schools. Marge joined the VinE Board of Directors in March 2023.

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Paula Dundas

Member at Large, Board of Directors

Paula has many years of classroom experience and is now a business owner in Cook, MN. She brings educational, business, and community insights to VinE. Paula has been a Board Director since January 2024.

Marjorie McPeak

Member at Large, Board of Directors

Marge retired from the Hennepin County Library System in 1996 after nearly 30 years. She is active in the Tower Food Shelf, leads a monthly book group, and has served several terms on the Arrowhead Library Board. Marge was the organist for St.James Church until its closing in the summer of 2023. She was a member of the Vine Board in its early years and looks forward to working with the current VinE organization. Marge joined VinE's Board in May 2024.

Joe Uhan

Member at Large, Board of Directors

With a Diploma from Eveleth High School (1965), a B.S. Degree from St. John’s University, and a commission as an Officer in the United States Navy, Joe brings a unique set of management credentials to the Board of VinE. Prior to his retirement in 2003, Joe worked in executive management positions primarily with the D. M. and I. R Railway Company. In retirement, he has served in leadership roles in numerous non-profit foundations such as Eveleth Technical College, Range Technical College, Mesabi Range College, and the St. Michael’s Health and Rehabilitation Foundation. He currently chairs the Advisory Board of the Virginia Corps of the Salvation Army, and also is an active member of the Iron Range Rotary Club serving as a member of the Board of Directors as well as being the in-coming President for Rotary year 2024-2025. Joe’s leadership experience coupled with his organizational skills will help provide VinE with diversity, and a community-driven voice to help guide the organization in its mission of the education of students. Joe joined VinE's Board of Directors in May 2024.