[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 27, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E824]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF UNITED WAY OF PIERCE COUNTY

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                           HON. DEREK KILMER

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 27, 2021

  Mr. KILMER. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this moment to 
commemorate the 100th Anniversary of United Way of Pierce County.
  United Way of Pierce County has been an integral part of our 
community since its founding on May 14, 1921--100 years ago. 
Established by an organizing committee composed of nine women and led 
by Emily R. Seymour, the organization was originally known as the 
Federation of Social Service Agencies. Founded to coordinate work among 
multiple Tacoma social agencies and serve more people, this 
organization has gone forward to provide services and leadership to our 
community for a century.
  Over the last hundred years, United Way of Pierce County's mission 
has remained focused on breaking the cycle of poverty for local 
families. Since its founding, this organization has raised and 
reinvested 350 million dollars in our community.
  United Way of Pierce County is also a leader in supporting diversity 
and inclusion efforts in our region. Their commitment to confronting 
systemic racism and recognizing its role in perpetrating persistent 
socioeconomic disparities strengthens their impact as they work for the 
prosperity and dignity of every person in the community.
  Their current goal is to lift 15,000 households out of poverty and 
into financial stability by 2028. I look forward to working with United 
Way of Pierce County in continued partnership to address poverty and 
care for our community. They are difference makers.
  I'd like to congratulate the organization's tremendous leadership, 
including President & CEO Dona Ponepinto, the board, and every person 
in our community that has supported their extraordinary work.
  Madam Speaker, Members of Congress, please join me in celebrating the 
100th Anniversary of United Way of Pierce County.

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