Our History
Since 1940, the United Way of the Blue Mountains and its predecessor organization, The Community Chest, have provided an effective system for supporting local non-profit health and human services in Columbia and Walla Walla counties Washington, and Baker, Morrow, Umatilla and Union counties, Oregon.
The essential elements of this system include:
- strict budgeting of time and money for efficient administration and operations
- volunteer direction and program implementation
- rational and systematic fund distribution
- a single community-wide fund-raising campaign
- a strong community problem-solving element
Our goal is to maximize the efficient use of your charitable contribution. We currently pass through 85 cents of every dollar raised to human service agencies.
United Way is responsive to emerging needs through a donor choice program and a special-projects funding program. Funding supports services to strengthen children, families and adults while promoting self-sufficiency, building healthy communities and meeting basic human needs.
One of our greatest strengths is in community building. We are a catalyst for developing partnerships and coalitions to address a wide array of community problems. If you would like to contribute to this effort, please visit this page. We are here to serve you in distributing your charitable contribution as directed, so as to be the most effective.
.png)
Our Mission
United Way of the Blue Mountains brings people together to improve Health, Education and Financial Security, empowering our communities to thrive.
Our Values
- CREATE solutions to local needs through leadership, diverse partnerships and community engagement
- ACT in the spirit of compassion, integrity, respect, transparency, and accountability
- RECRUIT people and organizations with passion, expertise and resources from across the community
- ENGAGE and inspire donors, volunteers and advocates in meaningful relationships and collaborative experiences to make positive lasting change
The United Way of the Blue Mountains is a local voluntary non-profit corporation administered by a Board of Directors. All contributions, unless otherwise designated, dollars stay local helping local residents regardless of age, sex, race, or level of income.