RICHLAND -- When the United Way of Benton and Franklin Counties reviewed its lists of donors and volunteers, one group was absent.
"We noticed the Generation Y was missing," said Sarah Murphy, resource development manager for United Way.
The number of people in their 20s and 30s is expanding because of increasing job opportunities in the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas, she said, but many of those people don't know where to go to give back to the community.
Enter the United Way Young Leaders Society. A group of 40 people formed the society six years ago to encourage charity from young professionals, and it has grown to include 250 members.
Their annual meeting is from 6:30 to 8:30 tonight at Anthony's Restaurant event center, 450 Columbia Point Drive, Richland.
"It's really about getting connected and networking with others in the community," said Melanie Schmitt, a society member from Kennewick. "We want to raise awareness about the (United Way's) programs that enrich people's lives."
Last year, the society raised $152,000 for different programs including Our Babies Can't Wait, promoting child development.
This year, Schmitt said the group is looking for partnerships to focus on helping the community's youths.
A mentors program in conjunction with the Boys & Girls Club would cultivate a good image of giving back to the community for the kids, she said.
New and existing members can now choose to volunteer 25 hours in lieu of the $500 donation membership guideline that is encouraged.
"Not everyone has the means (to donate) financially," Schmitt said. "But they can at least contribute by volunteering hours."
-- Dalina Castellanos: 509-582-1542; dcastellanos@tricityherald.com
Similar stories:
Small change equals huge impact
Small change equals huge impact
Did you know that by choosing to invest in our community, you are choosing to "live united?"
There are numerous ways to make change in our community. Everyone can contribute to growing and maintaining a healthy community through giving, advocating or volunteering.
People from all walks of life are touched by United Way every day, whether they realize it or not. A loved one may receive hospice care, new parents may attend a parenting workshop, an elderly person may receive a daily, nutritious meal or a child may participate in a safe and fun after-school program.
Benton-Franklin Legal Aid gives awards to 5 this year
Benton-Franklin Legal Aid gives awards to 5 this year
A young attorney who accepted at least seven pro bono cases this year and two men who have been law partners in the Tri-Cities for more than 32 years were commended Friday for their dedication to legal aid.
Jason Celski, Alan Gunter and Don Powell were in the spotlight at the Benton-Franklin Legal Aid Society's 11th annual attorney recognition luncheon in Kennewick.
They were just three of dozens of Tri-City lawyers who either supported the nonprofit organization or found time with their paying caseloads to accept low-income clients who otherwise might be denied access to legal help.
Prepared by 20 is focus of group
Prepared by 20 is focus of group
A group of community leaders, educators and service organizations are joining forces to help the next generation of Tri-Citians become contributing adults by the age of 20.
More than 100 people who work with youth -- or want to help youth -- met Thursday for the Prepared By 20 Systems Summit to find ways to collaborate to help kids grow into successful adults.
"This truly is a community-wide planning effort that has made a huge impact to our community," said John Inman, general manager for McCurley Dealerships. " ... It's not a new program, it's a collaboration of many agencies that are already existing."
Suicide in the Tri-Cities: A painful awareness
Suicide in the Tri-Cities: A painful awareness
A purple pendant on a silver chain hangs around Timbre Howard's neck as a reminder of her son, who killed himself 2 1/2 years ago.
Morriah Howard was young -- just 20 -- and struggling with love, his mother said. He was separated from his wife after less than two years of marriage and staying at his parents' Benton City home.
"We talked a lot, but he wouldn't open up about his relationship. It was eating at him," said his 46-year-old mother. "He had plans for the future; happy days and sad days. I was worried about him and trying to help him get help for himself with counseling (about the relationship), but I wasn't worried about suicide."
Salvation Army feeds 45 families on Thanksgiving (w/ gallery)
Salvation Army feeds 45 families on Thanksgiving (w/ gallery)
RICHLAND — About four dozen community members were thankful to the Salvation Army and more than 80 volunteers who spent their Thanksgiving Day giving back to others.
The Salvation Army and its volunteers prepared dinner -- 21 turkeys and all the trimmings -- to serve 125-150 people in Richland.
Numbers were down this year -- only 45 people arrived at the Thayer Drive building for the Thanksgiving Day meal -- but those who did were grateful the Salvation Army was able to provide a place for them to go.
Print
Email Story
