Our Story
Financial stability is about more than money.
It creates opportunity, strengthens families and builds healthier communities.
Save First is a comprehensive financial wellness organization serving individuals, employers, churches, schools and community organizations throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond.
We started in 2010 as an economic empowerment program initially assisting Providence Health & Services in managing their “Helping Hand Fund”-- a pool of money supported by Providence employees to help their fellow caregivers meet unexpected financial hardships. Save First expanded its program in 2011 to offer complete financial wellness services. Today, we provide financial wellness services to the community, employers, community partners, churches and schools.
Save First combines education, coaching, emergency assistance, curriculum development and strategic partnerships to help people create lasting financial resiliency.
Mission
Save First Financial Wellness empowers people to achieve financial stability, meet their basic needs and build a stronger future through education, coaching and compassionate support.
Vision
We envision a society where financial resiliency is achievable and accessible to all who are willing to work toward it.
Values
Trust
We build authentic, judgment-free relationships that create a foundation for growth.
Hope
We believe financial change is possible and help people see a path forward.
Empowerment
We equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take control of their financial future.
Holistic Support
We recognize that financial wellness is connected to the whole person and their unique circumstances.
Meet Our Team
Molly O'Donnell
Executive Director
360-245-7456
molly@savefirstfinancial.org
Cynthia Molina
Program Director
360-327-8093
cynthia@savefirstfinancial.org
Habla Español
Amy Camarena
Coaching Coordinator
360-468-7091
amy@savefirstfinancial.org
Jessica Wyndham
Operations Coordinator
360-200-8165
jessica@savefirstfinancial.org
Rose Tomassi
Youth Financial Educator
rose@savefirstfinancial.org
Tai Star
Financial Educator
tai@savefirstfinancial.org
In Partnership with Lighthouse Financial Foundation
Lighthouse Foundation began in 2017 with a mission to serve low to moderate-income families and individuals with financial services that address all aspects of a person's economic life.
In 2019, Lighthouse and Save First began partnering to provide financial empowerment services to the SW Washington community. In 2023, they opened their doors to Save First and serve as our Board of Directors. With Lighthouse as a partner, Save First is able to reach further into the community with financial services, education and coaching to our most vulnerable neighbors.
