Restoring a River, Strengthening a Community

When we talk about community resiliency, we often think about access to healthcare, food security, and economic opportunity. But the health of our natural environment plays an equally critical role in shaping the strength and sustainability of a community. The Healthy Pine River initiative is a shining example of how local action can foster long-term resilience by protecting our waterways, mobilizing residents, and investing in the shared future of our region.

Healthy Pine River is a nonprofit led by concerned residents, researchers, and volunteers, united by a common goal: to restore the health of the Pine River and its tributaries. Through grassroots advocacy, environmental education, and science-based solutions, Healthy Pine River is more than a conservation effort – it's a movement that empowers people to care for their surroundings and each other. At United Way, we believe that a resilient community is one where people work together to overcome challenges and create lasting change. Healthy Pine River embodies that spirit, working to restore not just a river, but the health, pride, and potential of the community it runs through.

United Way is proud to support the work of Healthy Pine River through a matching grant. This year, generous supporters contributed $10,912.89, and United Way matched the first $10,000, resulting in a successful $20,912.89 matching grant! These funds help ensure that Healthy Pine River can continue their outreach, informing and educating residents and communities on the issues facing the Pine River and the Upper Pine River Watershed. 

To learn more about the Healthy Pine River, visit www.healthypineriver.org.