PORT ANGELES — The United Way of Clallam County has contributed to a variety of nonprofits during the pandemic with a special fund.
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, United Way set up the Clallam COVID-19 Response Fund, which raised $340,469 and bestowed 41 grants totaling $285,684.14. That’s in addition to the 2020 campaign, which drew donations of $537,142.89 from individuals, businesses and corporate gifts.
“While the response was tremendous, local nonprofits are going to continue to need your help recovering from the economic fallout of the pandemic,” said Christy Smith, United Way of Clallam County CEO.
“We continue to hear of canceled events, lost revenue and an increase in services at our food banks and relief agencies providing rental and utility assistance,” Smith continued.
“We know that we have to continue to push to look for new ways to support the agencies who provide services to our most vulnerable populations.”
The United Way also announced two former Sequim residents who have returned to the North Olympic Peninsula to take positions with the organization.
Alexi Nelson joined United Way last fall as the nonprofit’s resource development manager.
Nelson graduated from Sequim High School in 2012 and earned a degree in anthropology from Central Washington University.
She began her career in the nonprofit arena at the Sun Valley Museum of Art in Sun Valley, Idaho, where she worked in event management. She returned to Sequim to be closer to her family and the Olympic Mountains.
“As our resource development manager, Alexi will be working with local businesses and employers to help raise funds during our annual campaign,” Smith said.
Megan Begley, who moved back to her hometown of Sequim late last year, is the new administrative and operations assistant.
She is graduating in May with a bachelor’s degree in finance and a minor in psychology from Northern Arizona University.
“Megan is an excellent addition to our team — she brings enthusiasm for our beautiful community and knowledge in finance that is vital to the work we do supporting our non-profits,” Smith said.
United Way of Clallam County partners with local nonprofits that offer programs and services to improve situations for families and strengthen the entire community.
Donations can be directed toward a specific nonprofit or to the community fund.
For more information about United Way partners and community impact programs, or to donate online, visit unitedwayclallam.org. Donations can also be mailed to: PO Box 937, Port Angeles WA 98362.
Call 360-457-3011 for more information.
