Stories

Volunteerism

Community Impact Week 2025

Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2025

Our fourth annual Community Impact Week has wrapped! With nearly 40 projects across Clark, Clackamas, Multnomah, and Washington counties, and over 400 volunteeers mobilized, we've collectively made a huge impact across our region.

A man in a hat expresses with his hands and smiles
Volunteerism

H.O.P.E: Supporting United Way Supports Others

Monday, Jan. 29, 2024

When you support United Way, it multiplies your impact and spreads that support to hundreds of other nonprofits in our community. Your support spreads hope, connection and caring to thousands of people in our region.

A woman holds a yellow sign outdoors
Volunteerism

Community Impact Week 2023

Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2023

Each October, United Way and our dedicated volunteer branch, Hands On Greater Portland, unite community members across our four-county impact area, infusing energy into a myriad of volunteer events for diverse nonprofit

Volunteerism

Celebrating Global Volunteer Month in the face of COVID-19

Monday, Apr. 27, 2020

April 2020 is the first-ever “Global Volunteer Month” to recognize the thousands of people around the world who serve their own communities – and in light of COVID-19, as a galvanizing moment to inspire and activate the next generation of volunteers who will help support the most vulnerable populations in the weeks and months ahead. During difficult times like we are facing now, I look to the dedicated individuals that support hundreds of nonprofit organizations and provide valuable service for inspiration. The beautiful thing is that volunteerism has never been easier to take part in.

Volunteerism

Inspired by MLK Weekend of Service

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020

Hello and Aloha!   I am delighted to be in Portland having recently joined United Way of the Columbia-Willamette (UWCW) as its President and CEO in mid-December of 2019. Previously, I was with Aloha United Way in Honolulu.  

Volunteerism

Understanding Community Needs: A Promise Neighborhood Initiative

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2020

Rain or shine, Paj is one of seven Community Researchers out surveying residents in the Albina and Rockwood neighborhoods to learn about the experiences and priorities of families with children. Since the launch of the survey on November 30, 2019, United Way Community Researchers have knocked on more than 2,500 doors, making contact with over 850 families.

Volunteerism

Donor Spotlight: Barbara and Bette

Wednesday, Jul. 10, 2019

Barbara Marmon and Bette Ederer are focused on creating opportunities for kids and families well into the future.

Volunteerism

Volunteer Spotlight: Camille Bell

Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019

Days after MLK Weekend of Service 2019 has come to an end, Dr. King's message of giving back has still remained at the forefront of our community.

Volunteerism

Volunteers Contribute 4,400 Hours of Service in Honor of Dr. King

Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2019

The on-and-off again rainy weather didn’t dampen turnout for United Way's 12th Annual MLK Weekend of Service. This year saw the highest number of opportunities to give back, with volunteers lending a hand at 73 nonprofit projects across the Portland metro region.

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