On October 15, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette paused to do something we don't do nearly enough: say thank you, out loud and in person. Our Gratitude Celebration brought together partners, donors, volunteers, and staff the EcoTrust Building to honor the people and organizations who make our work across Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark Counties possible.
No single organization can build a thriving community on its own. Every family that keeps a roof overhead, every child who shows up ready to learn, and every neighborhood that bounces back after a crisis reflects dozens of hands working together. We were especially grateful to host First Lady Aimee Kotek Wilson who has been a huge champion for our early literacy work. This year, we were proud to recognize three honorees who embody that spirit: Dress for Success, PacifiCorp, and our own Charles McGee.
Dress for Success: Opening Doors to Economic Stability
Dress for Success helps women step into the workforce with confidence, offering professional attire, career coaching, and a network of support that lasts well beyond a first interview. That work goes straight to the heart of what we see in ALICE households: hardworking people who are one opportunity away from greater financial security.
Our partnership with Dress for Success includes ongoing volunteer opportunities served through Hands On Greater Portland, as well as a long-running Community Impact Week project where for the past five years volunteers have been able to get to know the nonprofit and prepare their store for community members.
PacifiCorp: Powering Community, Not Just Homes
PacifiCorp keeps the lights on across our region, and its commitment to the community runs just as deep. Through their long-running golf tournament , PacifiCorp's team has shown what it looks like when a company treats its neighbors as part of its mission.
Corporate partnerships like this show the power of collaboration when it comes to making an impact. Our champion at PacifiCorp, Rick Dunn, was able to attend the celebration and received some personal honors himself!
Charles McGee: Years of Service, Immeasurable Impact
Some of the people who make the biggest difference are the ones you see every day. This year, we were honored to recognize Charles McGee for 12 years of dedication to United Way of the Columbia-Willamette.
As our Lead Account Manager, Charles has continuously engaged with workplace giving accounts across our region to ensure they know why they're donating, what their dollars go toward, and how exciting it is to be a part of this impact.. Colleagues know him as a champion for our work, a storyteller, and cheerleader.
Charles is a reminder that United Way's impact starts with our people. Thank you, Charles, for everything you've given to this organization and to our community. As you so aptly honor our work, we'll end with a chant of "United is the Way!"
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Gratitude Is Where the Work Begins
To Dress for Success, PacifiCorp, and Charles: thank you. And to every partner, donor, volunteer, and staff member who joined us on October 15, and to the many more who couldn't be in the room, your generosity is what turns compassion into lasting change.
As we head into the giving season, we invite you to be part of what comes next. Make a gift, volunteer with Hands On Greater Portland, or start a workplace campaign and help us build a region where everyone can thrive.