Submitted by TOGETHER!
In a world where individual success often takes the spotlight, the importance of community and working together cannot be overstated. As we reflect on the values that sustain and strengthen our mission, one stands out: community. It is through our collective efforts, fueled by the support and connection with others, that we are able to make a real difference. Today, we express our deep gratitude to Sandy and everyone at OlyFed for selecting TOGETHER! as the beneficiary of their February Two Cent Campaign.
This generous initiative by OlyFed is a shining example of how the spirit of community can make a meaningful impact. By choosing TOGETHER!, OlyFed engages members and community, both raising the profile of our work and contributing financially, demonstrating the true power of working together. Through this community giving initiative, OlyFed contributes two cents to TOGETHER! for every transaction their debit card users complete this month! It’s often said that “it takes a village,” and this is proof of that—when organizations, individuals, and communities join forces – amazing things happen.
As a 35-year-old organization serving Thurston County, TOGETHER!’s partnership with OlyFed goes back as far as we have memory. Together with partners like Oly Fed, we work to remove barriers to education and health, close opportunity gaps, and improve quality of life for all students, especially students of color, LGBTQIA2S+ students, students experiencing houselessness and/or economic insecurity. The ripple effect of OlyFed’s support extends far beyond their financial contributions this year and over so many years.
For our students, seeing such acts of community, generosity, and solidarity in action are lessons in themselves. Through examples likes these, no matter how big or small, students learn that the health and vitality of our communities is collective, and we are in this together. Thank you, OlyFed, for being in this together with us since day one, and for the big impact you make across so many corners of our communities. Thank you for demonstrating that through collective effort, we can create lasting change in community with our friends and neighbors.
We know that none of the work we do would be possible without the help of our incredible community. From volunteers to local businesses, each contribution plays a huge role in helping us move forward. Whether it’s a donation, a few hours of volunteer time, or simply sharing our mission, the support we receive from our community helps us continue our work, and for that, we are endlessly grateful.
“At a time when our community needs collaboration and compassion more than ever before, TOGETHER! is living out their name and is at the heart of ensuring young people in our community have every opportunity to thrive,” says Sandy DiBernardo, VP of Community Outreach. “We love TOGETHER!’s mission of believing in and building a brighter future, and we couldn’t be prouder to support the organization’s inspiring efforts.”
As we move forward, we encourage everyone to keep the spirit of community alive. Whether through acts of kindness, supporting local businesses, or contributing to causes that matter, we all have a part to play in building a better, more connected world. Let us continue to inspire and uplift each other—just as OlyFed has inspired us—with the knowledge that together, we can create lasting change.
Since 1989, TOGETHER! has been on a mission to advance the health and wellbeing of all young people. TOGETHER!’s work is poised at the forefront of public health science and educational justice, strategically working to achieve a vision that all young people are supported, safe and valued. To learn more or support TOGETHER!, visit the TOGETHER! website, or follow TOGETHER! on Instagram or Facebook.
