Two former Sequim residents are back on the Olympic peninsula taking positions with United Way of Clallam County, the organization announced last week.

Alexi Nelson, who joined United Way of Clallam County in the fall of 2020 and is the nonprofit’s resource development manager.

Nelson graduated from Sequim High School in 2012 and went on to receive a degree in anthropology from Central Washington University. She began her career in the nonprofit arena at the Sun Valley Museum of Art in Sun Valley, Idaho, where she worked in event management. She returned to Sequim to be closer to her family and the Olympic Mountains.

“As our Resource Development Manager, Alexi will be working with local businesses and employers to help raise funds during our annual campaign,” Christy Smith, United Way of Clallam County CEO, said.

Megan Begley moved back to her hometown of Sequim in late 2020 and said she is excited to become part of the United Way team as the new administrative and operations assistant.

She is graduating in May 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in finance and a minor in psychology from Northern Arizona University.

“Megan is an excellent addition to our team — she brings enthusiasm for our beautiful community and knowledge in finance that is vital to the work we do supporting our non-profits,” Smith said.

In 2020, the United Way Campaign raised $537,142.89 from individuals, businesses and corporate gifts. At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic United Way set up The Clallam COVID-19 Response Fund that has raised $340,468.80 and bestowed 41 grants totaling $285,684.14.

“While the response was tremendous, local nonprofits are going to continue to need your help recovering from the economic fallout of the pandemic,” Smith said.

“We continue to hear of cancelled events, lost revenue and an increase in services at our food banks and relief agencies providing rental and utility assistance. We know that we have to continue to push to look for new ways to support the agencies who provide services to our most vulnerable populations.”

United Way of Clallam County partners with local nonprofits who offer the best available programs and services that improve situations for families and strengthen the entire community.

Donations can be directed towards a specific nonprofit or to the community fund.

For more information about United Way partners and community impact programs, or to donate online, visit unitedwayclallam.org. Donations can also be mailed to: PO Box 937, Port Angeles WA 98362.

Call 360-457-3011 for more information.