Transforming Lives: United Way of Pierce County's Journey Toward Equity and Self-Sufficiency
At United Way of Pierce County (UWPC), we believe transformation begins with intention. Through compassion, collaboration, and innovative thinking, we aim to dismantle deeply rooted systems that perpetuate inequity and marginalization. Our Transformation Fund is one bold step in this journey, designed to empower organizations that provide holistic solutions to help families move out of poverty and into self-sufficiency.
What is the Transformation Fund?
The Transformation Fund is a $100,000 annual investment (renewable for three years) supporting organizations that demonstrate innovative and collaborative approaches to addressing the systemic challenges faced by ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households. This fund prioritizes programs that:
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Deliver measurable results in lifting families toward self-sufficiency,
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Address barriers unique to ALICE households, and
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Influence meaningful policy and systems change.
This initiative is part of our broader strategy to lift 15,000 households out of poverty, creating pathways to stability and beyond.
Centering ALICE in Our Work
When tackling systemic issues such as poverty, housing, and education, our approach is informed by ALICE data and, most importantly, by listening to those with lived experiences. Our strategy moves families along a continuum:
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From crisis to stability through targeted investments,
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From stability to thriving via our Centers for Strong Families, and
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Through policy and systems change advocacy that addresses root causes.
As our President and CEO Dona Ponepinto reminds us: "We cannot social service our way out of poverty." Real change requires addressing both immediate needs and long-term systems.
Multicultural Center: A Case Study in Community-Led Solutions
One inspiring recipient of the Transformation Fund is the Multicultural Center, a "by-and-for" organization rooted in serving Pierce County's diverse communities. What began as a small childcare service in a church basement has grown into a powerhouse of 42 programs, including childcare, homeless prevention, substance abuse recovery, and more.
Their impact is profound:
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Serving over 5,000 individuals annually,
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Providing culturally reflective care with over 80% BIPOC clients, and
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Maintaining the highest proportionality of men of color as teachers in Washington State's childcare sector.
The Multicultural Center embodies community care, proving that holistic, culturally relevant services can break generational cycles of poverty.
Looking Ahead: The Vision for 2035
The Transformation Fund is not just about funding programs—it's about planting seeds for a future where innovation drives solutions to poverty. Over the next 5-10 years, we hope to see:
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Creative solutions that tackle systemic inequities,
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Empowered communities leading their own change, and
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Tangible progress in moving families beyond the ALICE threshold.
By investing in collaborative and forward-thinking initiatives, we aim to build a Pierce County where every family has the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
How You Can Join the Transformation
Are you inspired to make a difference? Here's how you can support our mission:
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Follow Us: Stay updated on social media (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and Flickr) for stories and opportunities.
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Volunteer: Your time and skills can create meaningful change.
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Donate: Every contribution fuels transformative work in our community.
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Learn More: Visit our website, www.uwpc.org to explore how we're making a difference.
Together, we can transform not just systems, but lives. Let's work toward a future where everyone in Pierce County can achieve self-sufficiency and thrive.