Stories

Volunteerism

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.

Housing Stability

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.

Early Learning

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.

Volunteerism

Children's Book Bank: A Mission Fueled by Volunteers

Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017

“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.” 

Volunteerism

Volunteer Spotlight: Jalaja Uppili

Thursday, Jan. 5, 2017

“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.”

Early Learning

Four Ways We're Investing in our Region's Kids

Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2016

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. 

Early Learning

Preschool Promise Begins in September

Friday, Sep. 23, 2016

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. 

Volunteerism

Local Community Crushes National Volunteer Month

Tuesday, May. 10, 2016

April was National Volunteer Month, and it was more evident than ever that the Portland region is powered by a strong spirit of generosity. Individuals, businesses and nonprofits came together to make some truly magical stuff happen in our communities.

Early Learning

Register for Kindergarten by June 1

Thursday, May. 5, 2016

We believe every kid should arrive at kindergarten ready for school success. Registering on-time is vital to ensuring kids and families have the opportunity to connect with their school and teachers and have access to important summer activities.

Volunteerism

Volunteers Create Big Impact During MLK Weekend of Service

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2016

Over 1,800 volunteers poured their energy into 72 different projects in our region over MLK Weekend, tackling a diverse range of projects that included transforming school playgrounds, socializing shelter dogs, planting trees, cleaning donated children’s books and sewing blankets for children in need.

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