About Our Work

For over 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has been working to meet the needs of vulnerable families in our region. No matter the crises, we have always remained steadfast in our commitment to close gaps and open opportunities for people in Clackamas, Clark, Multnomah and Washington counties. 

Our commitment to racial equity is the lens through which we center all of our work. Our impact is focused and guided by this commitment, because we recognize the insidious and prevailing existence of systemic racism and its constant and corrosive impact on our region and country. Through efforts in Early Learning, Disaster & Crisis Resiliency, Housing Stability and Volunteerism, we hope to begin the journey toward correcting this historic inequity and building a more equitable region for all.

We are uniquely positioned in our region to bring people, community partners, foundations, businesses and government agencies together to build awareness of the challenges that systemic racism creates, focus on where the need is the greatest and scale what works to create sustainable impact.

Our Vision

A just and equitable region where all people can thrive.

Our Mission

We advance equity by mobilizing, responding and investing with our community partners to improve and strengthen lives. 

Our Values

  • Equity: We intentionally choose to center racial equity in decision-making.
  • Collaboration: We recognize that systemic change requires centering the voices of those most impacted by building inclusive relationships.
  • Empathy: We commit to understanding the experiences, perspectives, and feelings of others before we act.
  • Courage: We take bold steps to affect systemic change.
  • Agility: We understand, adapt and respond quickly in an ever-evolving environment.

Together, we can make our region a better place for everyone.

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