Our story
Over a decade ago, the Tumwater Firefighter’s Union had a simple idea: to provide children in our community with warm, American-made coats. What started as a small gesture quickly grew into a symbol of hope for kids facing tough times. Witnessing the profound impact of our efforts, we were compelled to continue our mission. Motivated and driven by our shared commitment to philanthropy, we knew that forming a nonprofit entity was the next step.
In 2021, firefighters from multiple agencies teamed up to create a local nonprofit focused on supporting children and families in our community. Starting with initiatives like Coats for Kids and school pantries, we set out on a mission to make a difference. Thanks to the support of generous sponsors and donors, our vision began to take shape, laying a strong foundation for the future.
Looking back on our journey, we’re proud of how far we’ve come. Our presence in schools and fundraising efforts have brought more people into our fold. We’ve met incredible individuals who share our dedication to helping others. Building strong partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits has expanded our reach, allowing us to touch even more lives in our community.
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the future. Our core programs are thriving, and we're eager to extend their reach to neighboring schools. Additionally, we're constantly seeking new avenues to support those in need within our community. Our commitment to embracing diversity and inclusivity remains unwavering as we guide our efforts forward. With confidence in our identity and the backing of our network, we're determined to keep making a positive impact, one act of kindness at a time. Together, we're shaping a brighter tomorrow for everyone in our community.
Our values
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Belonging is at the heart of our values, ensuring that board member and person we work with feels appreciated and empowered. We foster a culture of appreciation, acknowledging and valuing the unique qualities each individual contributes to our team. Through empowerment, we encourage every board member to take initiative, amplifying our collective impact. We strive for building a diverse and well-rounded team, aiming to reflect the diversity of the community we serve, enhancing our ability to address a wide range of needs effectively.
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Collaboration emphasizes the strength we draw from working together as a team. We encourage the sharing of ideas, celebrating the diversity of perspectives that drive innovative solutions. Active engagement and participation from all team members is essential to our success. By fostering a collaborative culture, we harness the collective energy of our team, sharing responsibilities and amplifying our impact on the well-being of our community.
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We prioritize transparent dialogue, fostering an environment where every member contributes to our collective impact. Through open communication, we cultivate trust and ensure that every voice is valued. Embracing individual uniqueness, we actively listen, understand diverse community needs, and promote engagement, strengthening connections and enhancing teamwork for meaningful impact.
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Trust is the cornerstone of our relationships. We value honesty, believing that open and truthful communication is vital for building and maintaining trust among team members. Respect is integral to our culture; we treat each other with dignity, fostering an environment where diverse opinions are heard and acknowledged. Through mutual respect and trust, we cultivate an atmosphere of collaboration and resilience.
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Our foundation is purpose-driven and goal-oriented. We commit to setting clear and meaningful goals, aligning our efforts with a shared vision. By working towards common objectives, we ensure that every action contributes to our mission of enhancing opportunities for youth and families in our community. Our approach is purposeful and organized, striving for efficiency and effectiveness in all our endeavors.
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We are committed to upholding the highest standards of honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all that we do. With unwavering integrity, we take responsibility for our actions, ensuring that every decision reflects our dedication to serving our community with honor and respect. We hold ourselves accountable for the resources entrusted to us, using them effectively and efficiently to maximize their impact and fulfill our mission with integrity and accountability.
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At the core of our mission, we embrace both compassion and love as guiding principles. With open hearts and genuine care, we extend compassion to those facing challenges and adversity. Our actions are fueled by a deep sense of love for humanity and our community, driving us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through compassion and love, we strive to create a more connected, empathetic, and supportive world for all.
