Stories

Early Learning

Ensuring No Child Goes Hungry: Summer Food Programs in Our Region

Friday, Jun. 27, 2025

When the final school bell rang in June, it marked the official start of summer. But for many families, it also signaled a cyclical challenge: how to replace the free or reduced-price meals their children rely on during the school year.  

Early Learning

Nancy Leon Steps Into Leadership Role at ELWC, Continuing a Decade of Impact

Thursday, Apr. 24, 2025

United Way of the Columbia-Willamette and our Early Learning Washington County (ELWC) initiative are proud to announce Nancy Leon as Interim Co-Director—a role she steps into after more than a decade of dedicated work alongside early childhood educators, providers, and community partners. 

Early Learning

A Place Where Diversity is Valued: Pioneer Preschool

Wednesday, Apr. 23, 2025

At United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, our mission is deeply intertwined with fostering strong starts for young learners. Through our early learning initiative, Early Learning Multnomah County, we have the privilege of connecting with remarkable educators across the county.

Housing Stability

Katie: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal

Monday, Nov. 25, 2024

For Katie, life as a single mother in Vancouver, Washington, has been a delicate balancing act. Despite working hard to support her three children, she found herself caught in the gap where too many families reside—earning too much to qualify for assistance but not enough to make ends meet.

Stay connected with us, sign up for our newsletter!