Stories

“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.”

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. 

Bashir’s family fled violence in his home country of Somalia when he was seven years old. He spent 18 years in a Kenyan refugee camp before his family was able to come to the United States through the refugee resettlement program. Almost immediately after he arrived, he got to work giving back to his new community.

The State Library Board has awarded Early Learning Washington County $100,000 for its “Bridging Cultures — Growing Early Scientists” program, which focuses on expanding the availability of STEM literacy kits countywide.

Thanks to Preschool Promise funds facilitated by United Way's early learning hubs, 359 more kids like Yan Soe in Multnomah and Washington Counties have gained access to early learning opportunities this school year. They’re now getting free preschool with high-quality providers who speak their language and know their culture.

The recent executive orders from President Trump create fear and uncertainty for us and many of our neighbors throughout our region. United Way of the Columbia-Willamette is committed to making sure we have communities, homes and schools that welcome and work for everyone. Read our full response here. 

The weather didn’t make it easy. Roads were packed with ice, the temperatures frigid. But over 600 volunteers still found a way to give back during United Way’s 10th annual MLK Weekend of Service.

“That every book is treated with such love and care and intention sends a message to families who are receiving the books that you are valued, you are loved, you are a part of our community.” 

“You feel like you are helping carry on the legacy [toward] equality. If you help others, they’re going to be helpful to somebody else. You build community that way.”

Native Oregonians Peter and Jane Melhuish have made giving back a way of life.

Madeline Jaross is extremely passionate about her job. Although she spends her days in the back office, her personal journey has connected her more deeply than most to the work at United Way. We asked her to reflect on that journey and how her lived experiences connect to her work.

On October 17th we're joining millions of people across the world in recognizing International Day for the Eradication of Poverty and our shared commitment to eliminating poverty for kids and families. Here are four ways we're making schools, families and stronger for kids in our region. 

Many families, like the Brazilles, are finding themselves caught in our local housing crisis.

Through Preschool Promise 1,300 kids across the state will now have access to quality preschool. United Way co-leads two early learning hubs that received Preschool Promise funds and are helping to open preschool slots for more low-income kids and kids of color right here in our own backyard.