Celebrating Community, Care, and Collaboration: BMAC Turns 60

On February 11, 1966, Blue Mountain Action Council (BMAC) opened offices in rooms 425 and 426 of the Drumheller Building, staffed by three people ready to support Columbia, Garfield, and Walla Walla counties.

A member of the new, nationwide network of Community Action Agencies, BMAC was established “to eliminate poverty in the area and the cycle of hopelessness which often accompanies it,” as BMAC’s first executive director, Frank Erickson, shared with the Union-Bulletin, “aided by federal funds but with all controls finally in local hands and minds.”

Sixty years later, that mission remains as relevant as ever. While our communities have changed, many individuals and familes continue to face barriers to stability. Our work to assist low-income individuals and families—helping meet basic needs and create lasting solutions—continues because the need continues.

From our first projects establishing a referral center in Dayton and a Head Start program and the "Tot Lot" playground in Walla Walla, to today's wide network of programs serving thousands of our neighbors each year, BMAC has continued to respond, adapt, and evolve to assist our communities. And together, we are making a difference.

"We moved to WW 10 years ago on a prayer for a better and purposeful life, for us and our 4 children. A kind man faithfully rented out his home to us with no money, no job, and no references. Fortunately, BMAC helped us with the deposit and paid the rent until we got on our feet. Within 3 months we had jobs and within 6 months we were able to pay the rent ourselves. Today my husband and I own our own home and are successfully working in purposeful careers. The assistance from BMAC and the kind man who rented to us 100% helped lead to our success today. Our children are flourishing in their careers, sports, and academics and we are happily helping others in the way BMAC helped us." (Stephanie M., Former BMAC client)

As we mark this milestone, we extend our gratitude to the clients who have trusted us, the partners who have worked alongside us, and the individuals and organizations who have invested in and supported this work. And as we look ahead, we know there is more to do, and that we will continue building thriving communities, together.

What's Ahead:

• Come by the BMAC main office (8 E. Cherry St., Walla Walla) to join CEO Danielle Garbe Reser for an informal gathering and some BMAC birthday cupcakes on Wednesday, February 11, from 1-2PM (while supplies last).
• Stay tuned for more information about our Community Needs Assessment, upcoming Strategic Plan, and a Birthday Celebration later this spring.