Written by Lindsay Harper, United Way of King County Chief Philanthropy Officer

Our nation stands at a crossroads. In a moment that feels like a step back for many communities, we are faced with an urgent question: Will we let this divide us further, or will we rise to meet the challenges together?

At United Way of King County, we choose to rise. We choose action, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to our neighbors. We are doubling down on what matters most: humanity, dignity, and the belief that every person deserves a fair chance to thrive.

The direction of our country today is a sobering reminder of the deep disparities and systemic inequities that persist. Safety nets are being unraveled, opportunities are being hoarded, and too many families are left fighting uphill battles with little to no support.

But this is not the time to retreat. It is the time to lead with courage and compassion. Our mission has never been clearer: We must work to ensure that our communities remain places of inclusion, opportunity, and hope.

This work is not abstract. It’s about real people—our neighbors—facing very real challenges. A family trying to stay housed after an unexpected job loss. A single mother working two jobs but cannot afford childcare. A young person aging out of foster care with no safety net. These stories are not just statistics; they are calls to action.

This is why Our Neighbor Fund exists. It’s not just a fund; it is also a promise—a direct investment in the well-being of individuals and families across our community. When life throws the unexpected—a medical bill, a rent increase, a sudden job loss—Our Neighbor Fund steps in. It provides immediate, flexible support to keep people stable in moments of crisis.

But more than that, it offers a message: You are not alone. We see you, and we are here to help.

In the face of national uncertainty, Our Neighbor Fund is a lifeline. It embodies our belief that no one in our community should face hardship without the dignity of support.

The work we do is rooted in a profound truth: we are all interconnected. The well-being of one impacts the well-being of all. To care for each other is to reject indifference and embrace shared responsibility.

This commitment is about justice. It’s about breaking down the barriers that keep people from reaching their full potential. It’s about standing up for equity and ensuring that our systems work for everyone, not just a privileged few.

We know that this is hard work. It requires resources, persistence, and the collective will to challenge the status quo. But we believe in the power of community to drive real, lasting change—and we believe in you, our supporters, to stand with us in this fight. Every dollar invested in Our Neighbor Fund is a declaration of hope. It’s a step toward a future where no one must choose between paying rent or putting food on the table, where opportunity isn’t determined by zip code or background.

Your support matters now more than ever. Whether through a donation, volunteering, or advocating for change, you are a vital part of this work.

These times demand more from all of us. They demand that we choose to act, to care, and to stand together. At United Way of King County, we are answering that call by redoubling our efforts, reaffirming our values, and committing to building a community where everyone can thrive.

Together, we can ensure that our neighbors know they are not just seen but valued. Let’s show the world what’s possible when compassion meets action. Join us in this work.