WAGAP turns 60
WAGAP turns 60 in 2026
Executive Director reflects on old and new
Bingen, WA (January 1, 2026) - Washington Gorge Action Programs (WAGAP) has served as the Community Action Agency supporting Klickitat and Skamania counties since 1966. The goal is to improve the quality of life for low-income families, children, and individuals using a variety of programs and resources.
Strengthening community through connection, collaboration, and action is the WAGAP mission. “Our community is stronger together,” said Executive Director Jennifer Pauletto. “I’m committed to working collaboratively with individuals, families, and partner agencies to improve the quality of life for all.”
This past year, WAGAP has honored its roots as a Community Action Agency by supporting the community through food security, housing, and energy assistance needs, partnering to expand community health and wellness resources, and fostering local leadership through education, engagement, and advocacy. These efforts reflect WAGAP’s ongoing commitment to evolving alongside the community it serves.
The transition into a new year brings excitement as the agency celebrates its 60th birthday. What started as a tiny nonprofit called Klickitat-Skamania Community Action Committee, Inc. (KSCAC) was built to focus on changing the causes and conditions of poverty as part of the 1964 Economic Opportunity Act. Since then, it has grown into Washington Gorge Action Programs, with over 55 employees supporting 20 programs to improve the lives of people struggling to make ends meet.
The agency is made possible by local, state, and federal funding, as well as grants and donations from private individuals, groups, and foundations. As funding streams ebb and flow, WAGAP adjusts to serve its clients as efficiently and effectively as possible. Pauletto is proud to report that 97 cents of every dollar donated goes right back to serve the community.
“What we are most looking forward to in 2026 is utilizing the feedback we received from the community through our Community Needs Assessment as we guide our next strategic plan,” Pauletto said. “We continue to strengthen our core services while exploring innovative ways to help change the causes and conditions of poverty, one individual at a time”.