Stories

United Way of the Columbia Willamette is committed to a fair and accurate census count. We recognize that many key safety net programs which support our kids and families are funded via census data including SNAP, school lunches, Head Start, short-term rental assistance and many more programs.

June 20 marks World Refugee Day, an international day commemorating the resilience, courage, perseverance and impact of millions of refugees globally. 

How do children learn, grow and succeed? By giving little ones the chance to play, explore and discover new tools that will encourage learning, we're not only investing in today's kids, but investing in the future of our communities.

With over 250 volunteer opportunities this year alone, Washington County is playing a major role in serving our community through dedicated volunteer work.

In honor of March 21 being International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, we asked our supporters to share a selfie with their role model, someone who inspires them to be #UnitedToEndRacism in their community. From a family member to a neighbor to an activist they admire, the possibilities of highlighting an important person who has left a lasting impact on eliminating racism are endless. 

Once all photos were submitted, it was up to you to vote on your favorite photo, and the results are in! 

As a civil rights activist with a powerful voice in the census, Karen Narasaki, Commissioner of the U.S. Commission of Civil Rights appointed during the Obama administration, is an advocate for immigrant rights and race relations.

March 21^st is International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (#EndRacism Day), marked in observance of the 1960 police shooting of 69 people peacefully protesting apartheid in South Africa.

We are deeply saddened by yesterday’s violence in New Zealand.  At United Way, we abhor violence in any form, particularly when it is connected to divisiveness, bigotry, hate, and racism.  We feel fortunate to be working locally in partnership with individuals, organizations, and communities that actively recognize the strengths we have in our diversity, and that are working to build an equitable and inclusive region for peoples from all races, religions, cultures, and communities.  

After over 15 years, United Way is saying good-bye to Hands On Greater Portland Program Director Mindy Coolidge. 

Mindy has an unyielding commitment to volunteerism in her community and has made tremendous efforts to expand the horizon of United Way's volunteer program. Playing an integral role in recruiting thousands of volunteers each year, Mindy has grown Hands On Greater Portland exponentially, while organizing volunteer events and, of course, providing her own service to our region as well. 

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. Hands on Greater Portland, a volunteer program of United Way, has brought in thousands of volunteers over the years, and they have all played integral roles in adding value back into our region by providing their dedicated time. We sat down with volunteer leader Camille Bell to hear about what motivates her to be part of this important program.