Sep 27, 2025 3 min read

How do we turn statistics about local challenges into meaningful action and lasting change? In 2023, the Washington County Community Foundation launched the Community Snapshot website to do just that – spotlighting local needs and the nonprofits addressing them.

Designed for donors, nonprofit partners, and local leaders, the site links broad community challenges with specific organizational needs. Each year, the foundation gathers input through a county-wide survey and in-person focus groups, guided by eight funding areas: animal welfare, arts and humanities, community improvement and economic development, conservation and environment, education, health and fitness, human needs, and religion and faith.

More than 100 nonprofits are now featured, and in 2024 nearly 3,000 visitors explored the site. Donors have already directed over $100,000 from donor-advised funds to address urgent priorities, and participation in the assessment process grew by 48% from last year, showing how deeply the community cares about shaping its future.

Animal welfare gaps remain significant, with only three humane police officers, no wildlife rehab facilities, and limited space for rescued agricultural animals. A shortage of veterinary staff worsens the issue. Programs at Mon Valley Career & Technology Center and Trinity High School are training the next generation of animal care professionals.

Arts and humanities organizations struggle to compete with nearby Pittsburgh, hindered by limited funding and aging facilities. Historic sites like Washington County History & Landmarks need costly repairs, yet most operate on budgets under $140,000. Without a dedicated arts council, many rely on older volunteers, with few younger successors.

Housing is a top concern, with 9.8% of residents facing severe problems and 26% of homes over 80 years old. Several organizations are renovating properties, demolishing others, and revitalizing blighted areas.

Washington County is home to many important green spaces, supported by nearly a dozen organizations dedicated to preserving and restoring them. Challenges include limited recycling, illegal dumping, and new developments encroaching on land once set aside for farms and parks.

Disparities between Washington County’s rural and more populated districts are a major concern. Smaller rural schools often face limited programs due to finances, staffing, and low enrollment, and providing specialized offerings like English as a Second Language courses can be especially challenging, affecting students’ learning experiences.

Health care and food insecurity remain pressing issues. Rural residents face limited access, and over 18,800 people are food insecure, 38% of whom may not qualify for pantries. Unemployment sits at 4.4%, slightly above the state average, and 70% of respondents cited affordable child care as a major employment barrier.

Faith-based organizations play a vital role providing addiction recovery, food distribution, and homeless services. Although, cooperation between churches is limited, and non-Christian residents face challenges, as the county has no synagogue or mosque.

Community Snapshot continues to provide a clear picture of the county’s needs while guiding donors and nonprofits in making meaningful impact. By participating in surveys, focus groups, or supporting local organizations, residents can help strengthen Washington County today and for years to come. For more information or to get involved, visit www.communitysnapshot.org.