United Way of Thurston County to end operations March 31, commissioners say

At the March 3 meeting Commissioner Klaus announced that United Way of Thurston County will conclude operations on March 31 after 90 years. Klaus listed several United Way-supported programs, including the career and resource navigator program, emergency food and shelter, and workforce education initiatives.

Klaus said United Way is working with the South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC) Foundation to ensure that remaining funds continue to support workforce education locally. The announcement was made during the commissioners’ community reports; no board action or funding decision was recorded at the meeting.

Why this matters: United Way has operated locally for many decades and has supported multiple workforce and emergency-support programs; the organization’s closure raises questions about continuity of local services and where remaining program responsibilities and funds will be transferred.