The United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties has always been a vital connector for local nonprofits and community members in need. This dedication was recently celebrated during a ribbon-cutting event hosted by the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce at United Way’s new office, a space that symbolizes their ongoing growth and mission to support communities across three counties.
After two years of planning, United Way finally moved into their new office, which represents more than just a change in location—it marks their commitment to expanding services. “This office is going to let us do a lot of things we couldn’t do before. We’re going to grow, expand, and have room to continue our mission,” said Kevin Manske, President and CEO of United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties. This new space will allow them to better support local organizations and expand vital programs in the region.
In light of recent disasters like Hurricane Helene in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia, the question of disaster response naturally arises. United Way has long been a trusted resource during crises, not only providing immediate support but also staying long after other organizations have moved on. Kevin Manske explained, “Typically, the Red Cross shows up for a finite amount of time… where the United Way stays in the community the whole time.”
Locally, United Way played a critical role in disaster response during the devastating fires in the Santiam Canyon just a few years ago. Their ability to coordinate with federal entities like FEMA and local partners ensured that funds were distributed effectively and resources got to those in need. As Manske put it, “We keep those routes of communication open, so when it actually happens, we can just pick up the phone and get what’s needed.”
One of the most celebrated programs spearheaded by United Way is the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, a beloved initiative that promotes childhood literacy by sending free books to children from birth to age five. “Our United Way was actually the first in the state of Oregon to bring the program here,” Manske said. So far this year, over 5,000 children across Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties have received books, a number that continues to grow.
This initiative is more than just about books—it’s about family connections and creating lifelong readers. Manske shared stories of families who have embraced the program: “One of the coolest things is how families, especially those with multiple languages, use the books to connect and learn English together.” Whether it’s siblings reading to each other or grandparents helping with storytime, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library is making a difference in homes across the tri-county area.
United Way’s influence extends beyond their own programs. They also provide vital support to smaller nonprofits, often those that are lesser-known but do crucial work in their communities. One example is the Coastal Range Food Bank, which serves over 1,500 people in a remote area but struggles with limited resources.
Manske described the Food Bank’s significance: “It’s this little nonprofit that has such a huge reach… those are the nonprofits that kind of run my heart a little bit, because they couldn’t survive without some of our help.” Through financial support, strategic planning, and grant assistance, United Way ensures that smaller organizations like the Coastal Range Food Bank can continue their important work.
A major part of United Way’s work is ensuring that resources get where they are needed most. Michael McClain, Director of Resource Development, has been with United Way for nearly six years, working to bring funds into the community through workplace giving campaigns and other initiatives. “It’s been great to work with a lot of you through workplace giving campaigns and other money that we funnel out into our communities,” McClain said.
Once the funds are secured, it’s up to people like Chris Sherrod, Director of Community Impact, to ensure they are distributed effectively. “My job is to take the money that Michael gets, work with our Community Impact Committee, and get that money out to our nonprofit partners,” Sherrod explained. The team carefully vets organizations to make sure that every dollar goes to where it can do the most good, ensuring transparency and accountability.
One of United Way’s greatest strengths is its ability to collaborate with a wide range of organizations across the tri-county area. This regional approach allows them to mobilize quickly in response to community needs, whether in housing services, disaster response, or resource coordination.
Mariya Harris, Director of Community Relations, works to share the organization’s story and build partnerships. “I take pieces of what everyone else does here, and I try to tell what our story is, what we’re doing out in the community, and who we’re partnering with,” she said. Her efforts help connect people to United Way’s mission and highlight the work being done.
Meanwhile, Maddy Yang, the Community Sustainability and Support Program Manager, focuses on housing and homelessness. “I work alongside our community partners across our tri-county region to bolster our housing services,” Yang explained. Her role includes coordinating homelessness responses at the county level, ensuring that housing services are accessible and effective for those in need.
The United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties has been a cornerstone of support for local communities, providing both immediate relief and long-term resources. From helping families receive books through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to supporting smaller nonprofits like the Coastal Range Food Bank, their impact is vast and far-reaching.
“Our goal is always to help nonprofits thrive, and when they do, we can go help somebody else,” Manske said. As United Way continues to expand their efforts, they remain dedicated to ensuring that every dollar and every resource makes a difference for the people and communities they serve.
About the United Way of Linn, Benton, & Lincoln Counties
United Way of Linn, Benton, and Lincoln Counties mobilizes resources and forges partnerships to address critical community needs across health, education, and financial stability. Serving from the Cascades to the Coast, United Way fights for the well-being of every person in the region. With a focus on collaboration and long-term impact, they support local nonprofits and community programs to create lasting change. United Way has been an integral part of the community since 1955, improving lives and strengthening communities.
For more, visit United Way LBL.
##
Featured Place
United Way of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties
226 NW Hickory St
Albany, Oregon 97321
(541) 926-5432
Related Articles
Dec. 11th, 2021
A Beginner's Guide to Kosher, Himalayan, Sea, and Table Salt
May. 6th, 2024