Stories

As temperatures drop, we see hats, scarves and sweaters pulled from the depths of our closets, ready to brave the cold months ahead. But for vulnerable families in our community, the availability of winter gear can be hard to come by – especially for young kids who need it the most.

Last Spring, during a weekend event at a local high school, students got together to present their start-up ideas. However, after the event ended and kids wrapped up their presentations, one team quickly went from idea to nonprofit, all with the help of the United Way Catalyst Grant.

The Parent Accountability Council (PAC) is an important part of our Early Learning Multnomah initiative. Through PAC parents share their voice and help guide our early learning investments. This year marks PAC's 4th anniversary serving our community. Take a look at all of their incredible achievements. 

We asked our board members why they support United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. Here's what they had to say. 

It wasn’t that long ago that Lam Hoang felt isolated and alone, having moved to Multnomah County from her home in Vietnam. Since then she's emerged as a parent leader in the community, sharing her experience and voice to ensure children of color have every opportunity to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.

United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is deeply concerned about the separation of young immigrant children from their parents at the U.S. border.

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.

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.

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.

“At a time when people are feeling fractured and divided, volunteerism is the great connector,” said United Way President and CEO Keith Thomajan. 

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.

Together, Labor’s Community Service Agency and United Way are making families and communities stronger for the kids of our region.

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.

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.

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.