UNITED WAY OF PIERCE COUNTY

Community Impact Program: In 2017 we made a bold goal to lift 15,000 household out of poverty by 2028. This takes a community wide effort of forming collaborations, agreeing on key measurements and tracking indicators with nonprofits, government, educators and businesses. 14,802 families have moved toward self-sufficency since we set this bold goal. Highlights in this area: Through grants from various collaborative partners, we offered Individual Development Accounts (IDA) which is a matched savings program where a participant builds assets for reliable transportation, education, debt reduction, start a business or steps towards home ownership. 184 individuals participated. The IDA program resulted in $1,318,908 of assets built. (source annual report). Our second cash assistance program served 190 families who received $500 a month for 12 months. Participants gained access to financial coaching, budgeting tools and workforce training. The impact goes beyond the numbers. Participants shared how the extra money allowed them to return to school, start a small business and spend more with their children. These are not just short-term gains-they are life-changing shifts that strengthen families and the broader community.

Community impact grants of $680,000 were distributed to various nonprofit agencies providing programs that help reduce poverty in Pierce County Washington. Grants are reviewed by staff and volunteers before being submitted to the United Way Board for approval. Capacity grants of $502,750 were given to 6 community partners providing finance and job coaches for our Centers for Strong Families (CSF) model. Individuals improve their financial condition, get better jobs and access to benefits. 1,000 individuals were served via CSF. 152 increased their income, 164 increased their net worth and 151 improved their credit score. The organization also distributed other grants of $361,066 that were donor designated to poverty reduction activities and $42,850 of board designated funds for emerging community needs.