Celebrating Parent Voice
Monday, Sep. 10, 2018
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.
Testimonials From Our Board Members
Thursday, Aug. 16, 2018
We asked our board members why they support United Way of the Columbia-Willamette. Here's what they had to say.
When Parents Lead, Kids Succeed
Tuesday, Jul. 10, 2018
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 Statement on the Separation of Families at the U.S. Border
Friday, Jun. 22, 2018
United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is deeply concerned about the separation of young immigrant children from their parents at the U.S. border.
Hopeful for My Daughter's Future
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.
Home Is Where You Keep Your Belongings
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.
Volunteer Spotlight: Larry Kotan
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.
Over 1,500 Local Volunteers Join Forces During MLK Weekend of Service
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.
Safety Net Support Creates Long-Term Impact for Local Families
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.
Celebrating a 40 Year Partnership With Labor Community Service Agency
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.
United Way Launches United for Impact
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.
Wells Fargo Funds Catalyst Grants to Spark Big Change
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.
All Our Kids Deserve a Bright Future: A Response to DACA Changes
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.
From Gratitude to Service: Meet New Board Chair Sean Edwards
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.”
Statement in Response to Charlottesville
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.
