Never underestimate the power of a dollar bill, especially one donated to a cause dedicated to helping others.

"Every gift, even as small as one dollar, goes to helping a child receive a backpack full of food during the school year, a senior citizen food and companionship, or a homeless family a roof over their head," wrote Krosbie Carter, the development coordinator for the United Way in Thurston County, in an email.

"We are grateful for every gift we receive from our donors and the Combined Federal Campaign."

Started in 1936 by a concerned citizens' group, the United Way of Thurston County is now one of approximately 1,300 United Ways around the world.

While the United Way's impact is global, the dollars raised in support for the United Way in Thurston County remain in the community.

"We envision a prosperous, safe and healthy community with hope and opportunity for all," continued Carter.

"We do this by solving community problems together by investing, volunteering and advocating in our local community."

Through various and successful programs, the United Way of Thurston County works to create long lasting changes by addressing the underlying causes of these problems within the community.

"It takes all of us working together to create a brighter future," Carter added.

Helping to accomplish this goal are the funds received through the Combined Federal Campaign, or CFC.

Carter wrote that every dollar received goes to programs like the Volunteer Connection, the County Reading Buddy Program, and the Retired Senior Volunteer Program.

"CFC funding greatly enhances our ability to provide for our local community on every level," continued Carter.

United Way of Thurston County's CFC donation code is 64300.

"I can't emphasize enough that each and every donation, large or small, helps us make this community better for all of us," Carter concluded.

"All it takes is that first dollar."

For more information, visit www.unitedway-thurston.org or call 360.359.6088.