With donations from generous donors, United Way of Beaverhead County has supported over 40 non-profit organizations over the past 35 years. These non-profit partners create a better quality of life for our community through health, financial, education, and safety service programs.

To clarify United Way’s role in fundraising for local communities, here is a brief history of the organization.

On October 16,1887, a Denver woman, priest, two ministers and a rabbi came together because they believed there was a better way to meet the needs of local residents. From its earliest roots, United Way grew into an international network of over 1,800 local nonprofit fundraising affiliates. Each local United Way is independent and incorporated separately as a 501(c)(3) organization with local volunteers, staff, and board of directors. The worldwide organization receives a small percentage of revenue (2%) from the local affiliates to promote the brand, provide infrastructure and help with fundraising strategies. The rest of the money raised goes back into the local community.

United Way of Beaverhead County (UWBC) began in 1988, initiated by two Barretts Minerals employees. The first fundraising campaign occurred in 1989 and in 1990, the organization expanded its membership and fundraising to include all of Beaverhead County. As an autonomous organization, UWBC has made every effort to support all qualified non-profits that come to us seeking funding. With limited resources, here are times when the board must make tough decisions. To meet rising needs, we need to increase our donor base. In addition to fundraising, we work with non-profits as needed to help with infrastructure, file for 501 (c)(3) status, volunteer for projects when we can, and assure the organizations that receive money from UWBC use it accountably to benefit the most people possible.

During 16 years of serving on the Beaverhead County United Way Board, I have seen firsthand the results of the caring, compassionate residents of our community. I am humbled and inspired by the generosity and commitment. Thanks to all our donors, our partners at Barretts Minerals (recently purchased by Riverspan who is continuing support), and to all the volunteers who do amazing work and continue to selflessly give.

Our campaign goal for 2024 is $150K, with the aspiration of surpassing that number. We need your help. Please consider donating this year. No donation is too small. The more who participate, the more we can accomplish together. On behalf of the entire board of United Way of Beaverhead County, thank you for all you do for the community. We are stronger as we work together and Live United!

Thank you again for your continued support,

Bonnie Harry, President

United Way of Beaverhead County