Individual Development Accounts
		The IDA Program is designed to move people out of poverty and homelessness. Small business development is one way low-to-moderate-income people can build wealth and other assets.
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Gretchen's entire life has changed.

Just a few years ago, Gretchen and her daughter Marissa's lives were in crisis. Following a divorce, Gretchen found herself with mounting financial debt and without the skills and education to find work. "My life turned upside down, the rug was pulled out." But Gretchen didn't lose hope. Instead she got connected with United Way of King County.

"To ask for help was a very hard thing to do. But it's been absolutely fabulous. I've learned a lot of things about what I can do." United Way of King County is committed to giving people the tools they need to change their lives for the better. Gretchen is a great example of what can happen. Gretchen worked to get her GED and got involved with the community jobs program. The program combined employment with classes on personal financial management. The results speak for themselves.

"It's a brand new learning experience for me. If I had cash, I used to spend it. And now I have a dream. Focusing on that is a process, every step educates you more and more." Gretchen opened an Individual Development Account and through that matched savings account, she's working toward the down payment on a house of her own. "You have to work. It's not always easy, but to have a program, to have a plan, it gives you hope. I've worked my way back up to where things are possible."

United Way of King County is making a real and lasting impact on people's lives.

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