Over 30 years of community impact
Founded in 1994, The Employee Community Foundation has become a strong partner for local charities in Washington state.
Our mission is to
create a better future
The Employee Community Foundation (TECF) is an employee-managed nonprofit that invests in the health and well-being of our local communities in Washington state.
Powered by the generosity of Optum Care Washington employees and matched support, we provide grants to nonprofits that address social determinants of health to create meaningful impact for those we serve.
Housing
Nutrition
Education
Community building
Where we began
What started with employees of The Everett Clinic in Washington state has become a broad effort to serve our communities. While our name has changed, our purpose has stayed the same: to serve our neighbors with compassion and care.
The Foundation has a committee that supports the TECF Board
Team members from across the Clinic in Washington participate and provide their input on fund raising and various projects like Candy Grams, Flower Grams, Annual Fund Raising, Food Drives, back to school drive, Christmas gifts and Winter clothes drive just to mention a few. They are instrumental in spreading the message, collecting the donations of various items, sorting and delivering to the nonprofits In addition to doing community service these employees are able use the opportunity to participate in MAP program through Optum.
Our values
Community first
We serve the unique needs of the Washington state communities where we live and work, ensuring every grant strengthens local impact.
Employee-driven
We are guided and funded by the generosity of Optum Care Washington employees, with every gift matched for greater impact.
Compassion
We believe in uplifting people with love, joy, and dignity through every action we take.
Stewardship
We manage resources with transparency and responsibility, ensuring that every donation goes further.
Equity
We address social determinants of health—housing, food, education, and care—so that all community members can thrive.
Partnership
We collaborate with local nonprofits and organizations in Washington state that know their communities best, multiplying our reach and effectiveness.
Be Part of the Impact
Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or simply spread the word, your participation helps strengthen our communities and supports causes that truly matter to our patients and families.
Thank you for your generosity and for helping make a difference—togeth
Donations are made securely through Benevity. Follow the steps below to get started:
Open your web browser (Chrome, Edge, Safari, or Firefox).
Go to www.tecfwa.com.
On the homepage, look for the link labeled “Donate” or “Set Up a Donation.”
Click the link to be redirected to the UGH login page.
Sign in using your work email address and password.
Complete any verification steps if prompted.
Once logged in, you’ll be taken to your Benevity dashboard.
Use the Nonprofit Search and search for Employee Community Foundation to find the organization and make your donation. Make it your Favorite to avoid searching for future.
Organizations we've funded
We’ve awarded millions of dollars to nonprofits serving families, youth, and communities across Washington state. Each grant is an investment for future generations.
Meet our board members
TECF is governed by a board of directors made up of employees, physicians, and community representatives who volunteer their time and expertise. They guide funding decisions to ensure resources are used responsibly and with transparency. Current board members include:
Brei Pyper
President
Sheryl Espeseth
Treasurer
Amanda Jakositz, ARNP
Secretary
Christopher Hempel, MD
Member
Melanie Acklin, LICSW
Member
Connie J. Wittren, CFRE (Ret.)
Community Representative
Stephanie Liam, CMA
Administrative Assistant
Kenita Gaines
Member
Sherry-Lynne Bogus
Foundation Committee Chair
Brei Pyper
Member
Questions? Please reach out to us
We’re here to help. If you have questions about donations, grants, or how to get involved, email us at tecfoundation@everettclinic.com.
