Today, I am moving on. After three years working in the Brand department at United Way of King County, I’m saying my farewells.

My first encounter with United Way of King County was in the late ’90s. I was working as a copywriter at Nordstrom, and the fall campaign season was kicking off.  There was an event called “Day of Caring,” and coworkers were signing up. The more I heard, the more I wanted to join in. It sounded like an amazing thing–and it…

Of all the events United Way of King County spearheads throughout the year, the Community Resource Exchange is by far my favorite.

In one place, on one day—so many who are struggling to just survive have a day where it’s all about them.

Throughout the day, I and dozens of other volunteers were helping to find people who would be willing to share their stories with us.

For me, the most moving moments were hearing from young homeless women and their kids.

I…

“60 Minutes” just aired a powerful story about the impact the recession has had on families and children.  In it, homeless children and families share their stories of survival and what it’s like to lose their homes, subsist in motels, struggle with hunger and still attend school.

The sad and shocking truth? Record numbers of children in our country are living in poverty—it’s estimated the poverty rate for kids in this country will soon hit 25 percent.

According to the “60 Minutes” story, 14…

This story was posted on Salon the other day. A lot of the work we support at United Way is all about helping the youngest among us reach their true potential. Check it out and share your thoughts.

Psychologists at University of Texas say the difference is about opportunity, not superior wealthy genes

Researchers at the University of Texas claim that poverty may affect how children achieve their genetic potential. Using 750 sets of twins as subjects, the team of…

Bananas, bread—and a Bridge to Basics

If you’re looking for a new volunteering opportunity, consider the Bridge to Basics program. In just a few hours a week, you can help connect low-income people with things like food stamps, utility assistance and low-cost health care.

I work full-time as a writer at United Way of King County. It’s been two years now, and it’s been a great experience. Through United Way, I’ve discovered so many programs and services available for people who need the help.  The…

The holidays are upon us. As you prepare for the busy season ahead, consider these tips to help minimize stress levels for your family. Children are especially vulnerable to stress. Keep the following tips top-of-mind in the coming weeks:

DeSean and Rose are a young couple who became parents for the first time this past July. I met them and their two-month old son at the Community Resource Exchange on September 24. Rose shared her story:  “When I became pregnant, my parents were really unhappy about it. They said I wasn’t welcome to live there anymore unless I got an abortion. That’s not really what I wanted to do.”

If you were at Qwest Field on September 24 for the Community Resource Exchange, then you know what an emotional experience it was. Seeing over 2,400 people dealing with homelessness—all seeking help and hope. 

Kenneth Wiley, a formerly homeless gentleman who shared his story with us last fall, recently checked in to share some great news. He graduated from FareStart on May 27 after attending classes there for several months every weekday throughout the spring. Along with his certificate of completion, Kenneth received the “Food Lover’s Companion” book and a set of professional knives.

FareStart is a culinary job training and placement program for homeless and disadvantaged individuals. Over the past 18 years, it has provided opportunities…