PHOTO: Jennie Reed Elementary students participating in KBTC STEM program

On a recent afternoon at Jennie Reed Elementary School, first-grader Sadie'Sade was one of about a dozen students using a tray filled with paint and marbles to try to create a picture.  As she rocked the tray back and forth she said,  "I like it because it's fun!"  But the activity was more than just fun, it was designed to teach kids about inquiry and problem solving.

Sadie'Sade is a part of KBTC Kids STEM, an after-school science program offered by the local PBS affiliate at four Tacoma elementary schools and two Tacoma Housing Authority sites.  KBTC STEM utilizes PBS Kids curriculum and video resources to teach students about approaching problems like a scientist. 




 
PHOTO: Tacoma Community Boat Builder Volunteer Mentor with his mentee

Tacoma Community Boat Builders crew of 36 volunteer mentors were recently named Pierce County Volunteer Group of the year.  In 2018, the group collectively served over 4,100 hours building boats and forging bonds of friendship with youth from the Pierce County Juvenile Court system.  

Just like Tacoma Community Boat Builders, many local nonprofits depend on the support of volunteers to achieve their missions.  We talked with leaders from three Pierce County area organizations to find out how they attract and retain great volunteers.

Read the 6 tips for attracting and retaining volunteers from local nonprofit leaders 


PHOTO: L'Arche Tahoma Hope Market Stall

Raising funds to provide care and community every day of the year is a big job. For L'Arche, endowed funds are part of the organization's sustainability plan.  

"With the lives of people that we are responsible for 24/7, having some place that money comes from that it just comes, is huge. It's something donors committed to our future that we can count on, and that's just pretty rare in the fundraising world." - Laura Giddings, Executive Director

 


PHOTO: Elaine Stafford & Shelby Clayson, GTCF Legacy Society Members

At Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, we've seen how much more we can accomplish when we work together. Since 1981, community members have shared their commitment to a thriving Pierce County by partnering with GTCF to bring their vision to life and build a legacy for future generations. In our 2018 yearbook, Pierce County Partners, a few of our partners shared their lessons and insights from working to strengthen Pierce County.

..."this will still be a wonderful place, and there will still be fresh air and green trees and bike paths. And women will be paid the same as men."

 
Read how Elaine & Shelby partnered with GTCF to make a long-term impact with their giving 


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March 19, Champions for Youth Breakfast - Communities in Schools of Lakewood
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