Read Doug's Story 

"I'd previously heard about Project Hope, but didn't understand the full scope of the program. I signed up and volunteered anyway and learned how the neighborhood gardens and lawn care business are at the core of an organization designed to provide job training and education to youth in the West Central neighborhood. The byproducts of this mission are community engagement, neighborhood beautification, and availability of fresh produce in areas without local markets.

The evening I spend preparing the garden and planting vegetables with about 40 other people was very rewarding. It made me feel an extreme sense of pride for our community. Mayor Condon was there with his entire family, each of them getting their hands dirty. While placing each plant in the ground I envisioned local teens tending to the garden, picking vegetables, and selling produce at the farmers markets throughout the summer. For the youth involved in this program it will enhance the commitment and pride for their neighborhood, as well as teach them valuable skills and life lessons. These types of projects build upon themselves in a positive way and are exactly what get me excited about the future of our city."

~Doug Kapelke, Emerging Leaders Society member~

Each year volunteers come together to provide tax preparation for low to moderate income individuals, families and elderly people. Millions of tax dollars including  $1.6M in Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) were claimed and brought into our community as a result of this year's Free Tax Preparation Program. 

Learn More About Our Financial Stability Work

Announcing the Excelerate Success Executive Director

We are happy to announce that Tara Dowd has accepted the position of Executive Director for Excelerate Success. We look forward to the direction her leadership and talents will create for this community collaboration which Spokane County United Way serves as the backbone organization. 

Meet Tara Dowd

"My Inupiaq name is Qallaq. I have been an advocate for systemic change, cultural and community development since I was in high school. Spending a large part of my professional life working first for a Native American nonprofit developing strategies to address systemic barriers to the success of Native American children and families, then as an education and equity manager for a local philanthropic organization helping to invest in organizations and support systems that worked diligently to end disproportionality related to race, gender and other marginalizations. As a consultant and business owner I continued to advocate, challenge and create opportunity for systemic resiliency and change process within communities and organizations." 

~Tara Dowd, Executive Director, Excelerate Success~

Send Tara a Congratulatory Email

Meet Our New Resource Development Team Member

Dane Lawson has joined Spokane County United Way as a Manager for Resource Development. He studied economics and business management at Washington State University, and graduated with a Master's degree in Health Policy and Administration. Dane stays busy in his personal life with home renovations, videography, and volunteering. We asked Dane what he looks forward to accomplishing in his new role.

"I am most excited to collaborate with community leaders in our effort to improve the lives of every resident of the Spokane area, and I believe that these partnerships will go a long way in the fight against poverty, abuse and educational disparities."

~Dane Lawson, Manager, Resource Development, Spokane County United Way~

Send Dane a Congratulatory Email

Congratulations Leah Horton

Join us in congratulating Leah Horton on her recent recognition by Eastern Washington University. Leah received the Inspirational Young Alum Award.

We are honored to work alongside Leah. The energy, enthusiasm and passion that she brings to our team truly is inspiring.

Congratulations Leah from your Spokane County United Way team!

Send Leah a Congratulatory Email