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.
Hard Work Pays Off for Somali Preschool
Thursday, Jul. 20, 2017
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.
Early Learning Washington County Receives $100,000 for STEM Program
Thursday, Jul. 6, 2017
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.
Freeing the Future: Transforming Education from Preschool to Graduation
Friday, Feb. 10, 2017
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.
United Way Responds to Recent Executive Orders
Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017
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.
Volunteers Brave Historic Winter Weather During MLK Weekend of Service
Monday, Jan. 23, 2017
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.
