Wednesday, Jun. 20, 2018
Forced to leave her home in Ethiopia for fear of persecution, Danait landed in Portland four years ago as part of the refugee resettlement program. She left her home country including her family and friends, without being able to bring any personal possessions or even prepare herself for life in a new culture.
Monday, May. 7, 2018
Two years ago, Stephanie, a single parent, found herself in an unimaginable situation. Despite having a full time job Stephanie couldn’t afford rent in Washington County, and she and her six year old daughter, Teja, became homeless.
Tuesday, Apr. 10, 2018
April is National Volunteer Month! Hands On Greater Portland, United Way's volunteer program, is lucky to claim the support of thousands of dedicated local volunteers. We sat down with longtime volunteer leader Larry Kotan to hear about what motivates him to give back.
Thursday, Jan. 18, 2018
“At a time when people are feeling fractured and divided, volunteerism is the great connector,” said United Way President and CEO Keith Thomajan.
Sunday, Nov. 12, 2017
Three years ago Katrina was desperate to find a place to live for her and her son, Adan. She was determined to turn her life around after suffering years of abuse, trauma and addiction, but had no credit and was facing a mountain of debt. Three years later she’s working full time, studying accounting and Adan is thriving.
Thursday, Nov. 9, 2017
Together, Labor’s Community Service Agency and United Way are making families and communities stronger for the kids of our region.
Monday, Oct. 9, 2017
Poverty is complicated and we know we can’t fix it on our own. That's why we're launching United for Impact, which aims to showcase the collective work to invest in our region’s kids so they are free from poverty in order to be free to reach their potential.
Tuesday, Sep. 26, 2017
Thinking small can indeed be the start of something big.
That’s the potential that longtime United Way partner Wells Fargo saw in our Catalyst Fund Grants.
Friday, Sep. 8, 2017
In recent days, we have seen how changing politics can turn a child’s world upside down. At United Way, we are working toward a community where kids can reach their potential. All kids. Kids who are newcomers here; kids who were born here; kids who see their future here.
Friday, Sep. 8, 2017
“It’s important to me to give back to a community that provided so much to me while growing up here. I grew up in a single parent household of limited means. My mom often had to choose between paying utilities and the mortgage,” he remembered. “I’m grateful that our community then helped with utility bills and provided meals for us during the most difficult times.”
Wednesday, Aug. 16, 2017
At United Way, we are working hard to build a region that lives up to the ideals of inclusion, opportunity and equity. We believe white supremacy has no rightful place in America. Yet recent scenes from Virginia reflect what roils uneasily within us as a nation, and remind us of similar dark chapters in our region’s history. While many in our nation express shock and disbelief, many people of color recognize bigotry as a too-common part of their American journey.
Thursday, Jul. 20, 2017
Bashir’s family fled violence in his home country of Somalia when he was seven years old. He spent 18 years in a Kenyan refugee camp before his family was able to come to the United States through the refugee resettlement program. Almost immediately after he arrived, he got to work giving back to his new community.
Thursday, Jul. 6, 2017
The State Library Board has awarded Early Learning Washington County $100,000 for its “Bridging Cultures — Growing Early Scientists” program, which focuses on expanding the availability of STEM literacy kits countywide.
Friday, Feb. 10, 2017
Thanks to Preschool Promise funds facilitated by United Way's early learning hubs, 359 more kids like Yan Soe in Multnomah and Washington Counties have gained access to early learning opportunities this school year. They’re now getting free preschool with high-quality providers who speak their language and know their culture.
Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017
The recent executive orders from President Trump create fear and uncertainty for us and many of our neighbors throughout our region. United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is committed to making sure we have communities, homes and schools that welcome and work for everyone. Read our full response here.
