The cycle of poverty is vicious and difficult to break. But that hasn't discouraged Dona Ponepinto from dedicating much of her life
to helping those who struggle. Experienced in the barriers faced by South Sound people who live above, below, and on the poverty line, Ponepinto has led the United Way of Pierce County since she was hired as the organization's CEO in 2014. The appointment to this senior position dates back more than 30 years, when she began working at the United Way of Greater Los Angeles. She later worked for United Way in Orange County and Detroit before arriving in the Pacific Northwest. "I started out at the very bottom," Ponepinto said, laughing. "I think that was a great thing for me, though." Click here to read the full article.