Jen Kingfisher, director of community partnerships with United Good Neighbors, sat down with Andrea Stafford, the organization’s marketing coordinator, to talk about the annual Give Jefferson Campaign.

Stafford: Let’s start with the big picture. What can you tell us about the legacy and local impact of the United Good Neighbors Give Jefferson Campaign?

Kingfisher: The Give Jefferson campaign has always been about neighbors helping neighbors. From the beginning, it has adapted to meet the changing needs of our community while staying true to its core mission—supporting organizations that address fundamental human needs in Jefferson County.  Over the past 65+ years, the campaign has expanded its reach, ensuring that funds remain local and benefit those who need it most. Today, it supports about 30 organizations, all vetted by the Community Outreach Team. Our team of volunteers carefully reviews each applicant to ensure they meet essential criteria and serve a clear, local need. This rigorous process guarantees transparency and accountability, reassuring donors that their contributions are making a real difference. 

Stafford: Can you talk a little bit more about the history of the organization? I think it goes back 70 years?   

Kingfisher:  The United Good Neighbors’ Give Jefferson campaign has deep roots in the community, going back over 65 years. It began as a modest yet impactful effort, raising about $8,000 in its first year—a significant sum at the time. The campaign was initially a collaboration between the Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce, the Port Townsend Paper Corporation, and The Leader newspaper. These organizations recognized the need for a united charitable effort to address critical human needs such as food, shelter, and job training.

Each year, Jefferson County residents look forward to receiving the Give Jefferson brochure in their mailbox. In 2018, United Good Neighbors rebranded the campaign as “Give Jefferson,” though much of its structure remains the same. Donors now have more flexibility in how they contribute. They can mail a check or credit card information using the brochure, donate directly from their paycheck if their workplace participates, or give online at give.jefferson.org.

What’s remarkable is how this business-led initiative has reflected the broader culture of generosity in Jefferson County. The campaign’s spirit of collective care has continued to define it over the decades, evolving to meet new challenges while staying true to its original mission. Today, this culture of generosity is more vital than ever, as the campaign works to address pressing needs in our community.

Stafford:  How has the campaign managed to stay so relevant and effective over the decades?

Kingfisher: What sets Give Jefferson apart is its focus on collective impact. Many smaller nonprofits lack the resources to run large-scale fundraising campaigns. Through Give Jefferson, they can focus on their mission, while we handle the outreach and fundraising. It’s about leveraging our collective strength to uplift the entire community.

Stafford: Can you talk a little about the Community Outreach Team?  

Kingfisher: The Community Outreach Team is an essential part of the Give Jefferson campaign. They are responsible for conducting the due diligence that ensures every participating organization is addressing a significant need in Jefferson County. This team thoroughly reviews each application, examining materials provided by the organizations, researching their work, and reaching out directly to gather additional information.

Their efforts guarantee that every dollar donated to Give Jefferson stays local and is used to support the community effectively. By carefully vetting each organization, the Community Outreach Team ensures that donors can have complete confidence in how their contributions are being utilized. This meticulous process is what makes Give Jefferson a trusted and impactful campaign year after year.

Stafford:  Can you share a success story from the campaign’s legacy?

Kingfisher: One story that stands out involves a local family supported by multiple UGN-backed programs. A single mother who lost her job during the pandemic accessed emergency food assistance, found temporary housing, and eventually secured job training that led to stable employment. What’s powerful is how these services worked together to create lasting change for her family. That’s the beauty of Give Jefferson — it’s not just a Band-Aid; it’s about building a stronger, healthier community.

Stafford: Have you faced any challenges recently with the campaign?

Kingfisher: Like many charitable initiatives, Give Jefferson has faced challenges, particularly with workplace giving. We’re seeing a decline in workplace giving, which reflects a national trend. As the traditional workplace landscape changes, fewer employees are participating in payroll deduction programs. However, this shift has been offset by an encouraging rise in individual donations. The community has stepped up in remarkable ways, more people are giving directly through the GIve Jefferson website or by mailing in their contributions. 

Stafford: What’s your vision for its future?

Kingfisher:  As the Give Jefferson campaign continues to evolve, its mission remains clear; fostering a community where everyone has the resources they need to thrive. This isn’t just fundraising; it’s community-building. This year’s campaign runs from November 11th through December 31st, and we’re aiming to raise over $300,000. It’s ambitious, but with the incredible generosity of this community, I believe we can do it!