Eastern Idaho Shows Up for Neighbors -

Big Elk Fire

This summer, Eastern Idaho demonstrated the power of community when neighbors needed it most.

When the Big Elk Fire impacted local communities, individuals, businesses, and organizations stepped forward with generous donations to support those affected. Through this outpouring of kindness, local individuals and families received much-needed assistance during a difficult and uncertain time.

At United Way of Eastern Idaho, we are continually reminded that our greatest strength lies in the people who call this region home. The generosity shown during the Big Elk Fire is a powerful example of neighbors coming together, offering support, and helping one another through challenging circumstances.

In addition to the community donations provided to support fire-affected residents, the United Way of Eastern Idaho Board of Directors made a separate donation to the Central Fire District in recognition of its dedicated volunteer firefighters and team members. These individuals put themselves at risk to protect our communities, and we are grateful for their courage, service, and commitment to keeping our neighbors safe.



Thank you to everyone who stepped up to support our community.

Workplace Giving: Making a Lasting Local Impact

At United Way of Eastern Idaho, workplace giving campaigns are a powerful way for employees and businesses to come together to create meaningful change across our region. Through the generosity of local employees and the commitment of our corporate partners, these campaigns help support programs and nonprofit organizations working to strengthen our communities.

Workplace giving is about more than raising funds. It is about investing in the people, programs, and services that help Eastern Idaho thrive. Contributions support United Way's focus areas of Youth Opportunity, Healthy Community, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency, helping address local needs and create opportunities for individuals and families.

And because 100% of workplace campaign contributions stay local, employees can feel confident that their generosity is making a difference right here in Eastern Idaho.

We are grateful for the businesses, employees, and campaign coordinators who make this work possible. Their generosity and dedication demonstrate what can happen when people unite around a shared commitment to building a stronger community.

Learn More - Workplace Giving

Early Learning Collaborative Open House Celebrates Community Commitment to Young Children

United Way of Eastern Idaho was excited to welcome community members, early childhood educators, local leaders, and partners to the Early Learning Collaborative Open House in Idaho Falls! The event brought together individuals who share a common goal: helping young children thrive by expanding access to quality early learning opportunities.

The Early Learning Collaborative brings together child care providers, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to address barriers to early childhood education. With many local families facing long child care waitlists and rising costs, the collaborative is working to improve access to quality care and reduce financial barriers for working families. The goal is to help ensure children have access to the early learning environments they need to grow, learn, and prepare for kindergarten.

The open house provided an opportunity to learn more about the collaborative's work, connect with partners, and explore efforts to strengthen early learning resources throughout our community. By working together, we can help create a stronger foundation for children and greater support for the families who care for them.

A heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended and continues to champion early childhood education in Eastern Idaho. Your support and collaboration make this important work possible!

Want to learn more? Visit the Early Learning Collaborative webpage to explore local resources and download the printable Kindergarten Readiness Calendar to help your little one prepare for school.

Visit unitedwayei.org/early-learning-collaborative to learn more.

Together, we can help every child build a strong start for a bright future.

Check out Channel 8 News Coverage

Volunteers Needed for Food Drive Shifts

We’d love your help making a difference for local kids! 💙 United Way of Eastern Idaho is looking for volunteers to join us at our upcoming food drives at Sam’s Club and Broulim’s. These food drives help stock our Ready. Set. GO! Weekend Food Bag Program and holiday food bags, ensuring local elementary students have food to enjoy when school meals aren’t available. Every volunteer makes a difference, and we’d love to have you join us!

Sam’s Club Food Drive

📅 Friday, November 13, 2026

• Time: Volunteer shifts available between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Location: Sam’s Club, 700 E. 17th St., Idaho Falls

Volunteers will help collect food donations from shoppers and spread awareness about the Weekend Food Bag Program.

Sign up for a Sam’s Club volunteer shift

Broulim’s Food Drive

📅 Friday, December 4, 2026

• Time: Volunteer shifts available between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Location: Broulim’s, 2730 E. Sunnyside Road, Ammon, ID 83406

Volunteers will help encourage shoppers to donate cereal and collect contributions to help ensure children have food during school breaks.

Sign up for Broulim's volunteer shift