History

 

United Way has been around for more than 135 years and continues to make an impact. It all started with five founders and has expanded into local organizations. We hope you'll enjoy reading a little bit about our history by clicking on the rectangles below.

1887 - In Denver, Colorado, a woman, a priest, a rabbi and two ministers funded the Charity Organization Society, the first United Way. This organization planned and coordinated local services and conducted a single fundraising campaign for nearly two dozen organizations.

1888 - The first United Way campaign in Denver raised $21,700.

1942 - Community Chest of Idaho Falls organized by E.F. McDermott, to coordinate multiple fundraising activities in Idaho Falls. Fundraising goal: $13,505.

1954 - Name changed to Community Chest of Idaho Falls and Bonneville County, Inc. V.E. Mullin elected president, reorganized method of operation to one more representative of donors, rather than supported agencies. Fundraising goal: $85,000.

1976 - Name of organization legally changed to United Way of Idaho Falls and Bonneville County, Inc.(UWIFBC), to conform with other organizations throughout the United States. First full-time executive director joined the non-profit.

1987 - The UWIFBC supported 28 non-profit agencies. The 1987 campaign total was $793,000.

1990 - Golden Anniversary Celebration. The campaign raised in excess of $1 million dollars. The number of agencies supported grew to 31 non-profits.

1994 - The number of agencies supported by UWIFBC grew to 37 non-profits.

2011 - United Way of Upper Valley is absorbed into United Way of Idaho Falls and Bonneville County. The new service area grew to seven counties, Bonneville, Clark, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, and Teton.

2018 - The UWIFBC conducted Community Conversations in the seven counties to help create a more accurate snapshot of community needs in each respective county in Eastern Idaho.

2019 - The UWIFBC shifted to Community Impact Model. The primary objective of this model is to create a healthier region by supporting non-profits and programs that positively impact priority need and urgent issues in the Health, Education and Financial Stability areas.

2022- The UWIFBC distributed over 16,000 books to children through our Ready, Set, READ! literacy program. Helped to fund 278,498 Meals on Wheels to vulnerable community members. Created and funded 14 SOAR afterschool programs in Eastern Idaho. Delivered over 250 weekend food backpacks weekly for children experiencing food insecurity.