MOUNTLAKE TERRACE — United Way of Snohomish County has completed its annual fund drive, with more than $10 million raised for local social service organizations.
The announcement was made during the Community Caring Celebration, an event at the Nile Country Club in Mountlake Terrace Thursday evening to honor the people and businesses who volunteered for the fund-raising effort.
It also was the farewell event for Brent Stewart, who has led the organization for nearly five years.
Stewart, 44, is leaving to take over United Way of Columbia-Willamette, which serves four counties in the greater Portland, Ore., area, including Clark County in southwest Washington.
Stewart was given a special spirit award for his service to the organization and the community. The hand-blown glass award was made by Bellingham artist Bill Sargent.
John Gustafson, who heads the local United Way board, said Stewart has helped the organization "focus on an agenda for the community that’s truly made a difference in people’s lives."
His "caring and direction in working with staff will leave the organization in good stead for years to come," Gustafson added.
The estimated amount of money raised during this year’s drive, $10.04 million, is $220,000 less than the $10.26 million raised last year. Contributions will continue to be reported through the end of March.
"Frankly, we’re pretty pleased," said spokesman Dan Klusman. "Anytime we get over $10 million, that’s a lot of money."
This year, there was a drop in donations from federal employees, as well as fewer dollars raised through a direct-mail campaign.
Letters were sent to people who had donated in the past but who aren’t currently giving, Klusman said.
The estimated $50,000 drop-off in response to letters asking for donations "is pretty typical compared to other nonprofits across the region," he said.
Donations from federal employees were down about $100,000 over last year, he said, largely due to about 650 fewer federal employees in the county.
The organization exceeded its goal for number of volunteers in United Way events, with 1,424 people participating.
It recruited 2,500 new donors, more than doubling its goal of 1,000 new donors. And about 2,200 donors increased their giving over last year.
Currently, United Way money funds 104 programs at 52 area groups.
One of the biggest changes in the way United Way operates began last fall with groups called vision councils, made up of volunteers who focus on the county’s most pressing problems affecting kids, families and communities.
They will recommend which organizations and programs get United Way money by the end of April, Klusman said, with final funding decisions made by the board in May.
In a departure from previous years, funding grants this year will run through the end of 2006, rather than just one year. From then on, grants will be made for three years.
"It gives the grant recipient more time to make an impact," he said.
Instead of annual grant writing, organizations will file yearly reports online so United Way can monitor their progress.
The volunteers on the vision councils may also raise additional money during the year to help attack specific problems identified in the community, he added.
Reporter Sharon Salyer:
425-339-3486 or
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