PORT TOWNSEND — United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County has begun its fall fundraising campaign, aiming for a goal of $375,000.
The nonprofit organization distributes funds each year to support health and human service programs that keep people housed, nourish and support children and elders, as well as provide access to services that help people get back on their feet.
United Good Neighbors, known as UGN, lists 24 partner agencies on its website at weareugn.org/.
This year, the agency will distribute $200,000 to health and human service programs in Jefferson County, a 15 percent increase in allocations over 2014, according to a news release.
In addition, it distributed $50,000 in donor-designated funds and budgeted $20,000 to support small emergency or supplemental grants for safety net programs.
For 2016, United Good Neighbors aims to increase funding to partner nonprofits by 15 percent.
“With increased support from the community, UGN can make good on our commitment to increase our financial support of programs and services that address critical needs in our county,” said Steve Rafoth, board president.
Dave Stanko, Jefferson County sheriff, is the 2015-16 campaign chairman.
The theme is Rise to the Challenge. Thermometers around Port Townsend will show how far along the group is to its goal.
“As a community, we are well on our way to achieving our fundraising goal,” said Nikki Russell, director of community engagement.
More than 100 volunteers completed community projects for the United Good Neighbors Day of Caring on Sept. 18.
The 2015 Fall Fund Drive brochure has been mailed to residents. Donations also can be made online at weareugn.org or by calling 360-385-3797.