Stories

Culture

Critical Moments of the Year

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020

This year saw an unprecedented number of challenges across our region. Here are some critical moments of 2020 that your generosity and support helped make possible.

Housing Stability

A safe place for my son

Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020

For most, home is a place of comfort, safety, and rest.

United Way to Observe "March On Washington"

Thursday, Aug. 27, 2020

United Way opposes the Census being cut-short

Thursday, Aug. 6, 2020

Disaster & Crisis Resilience

COVID-19 Report: Building a Path from Relief to Resiliency

Tuesday, Jun. 9, 2020

Thanks to you, families hit hard by COVID-19 were able to access critical services, including short-term housing assistance, utilities assistance and access to food. Read how your support made a difference.  

Volunteerism

Celebrating Global Volunteer Month in the face of COVID-19

Monday, Apr. 27, 2020

April 2020 is the first-ever “Global Volunteer Month” to recognize the thousands of people around the world who serve their own communities – and in light of COVID-19, as a galvanizing moment to inspire and activate the next generation of volunteers who will help support the most vulnerable populations in the weeks and months ahead. During difficult times like we are facing now, I look to the dedicated individuals that support hundreds of nonprofit organizations and provide valuable service for inspiration. The beautiful thing is that volunteerism has never been easier to take part in.

Disaster & Crisis Resilience

COVID-19, resources and ways to help

Thursday, Mar. 19, 2020

Our country has faced many difficult situations over the years – disasters and economic crises – but nothing quite like this one. It’s why we prepare. For 100 years, United Way of the Columbia-Willamette has been the place where our community joins together to help one another.

Early Learning

Community Voices Count: A Promise Neighborhood Initiative

Wednesday, Mar. 11, 2020

As a Lead Community Researcher, Carolina shares her experiences going door-to-door to better understand how the Albina Rockwood Promise Neighborhood Initiative (ARPNI) can serve kids and families.

Volunteerism

Inspired by MLK Weekend of Service

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020

Hello and Aloha!   I am delighted to be in Portland having recently joined United Way of the Columbia-Willamette (UWCW) as its President and CEO in mid-December of 2019. Previously, I was with Aloha United Way in Honolulu.  

Volunteerism

Understanding Community Needs: A Promise Neighborhood Initiative

Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2020

Rain or shine, Paj is one of seven Community Researchers out surveying residents in the Albina and Rockwood neighborhoods to learn about the experiences and priorities of families with children. Since the launch of the survey on November 30, 2019, United Way Community Researchers have knocked on more than 2,500 doors, making contact with over 850 families.

Volunteerism

Volunteers Contribute to 60 Service Projects in Honor of Dr. King

Monday, Jan. 27, 2020

From stocking food pantries for families in need to sprucing up vital community spaces including local schools and parks, this year more than 1,200 volunteers gave their time on over 60 projects in honor of Dr. King’s legacy.

Culture

Top 5 Moments of 2019

Monday, Dec. 23, 2019

As we head into the New Year, we hope you'll take a moment to reflect on how your support helped kids and families thrive. Here are the top five moments you made possible.

Housing Stability

Make a Dad’s Love Count this Giving Season

Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019

Glenn and his daughters struggled to find somewhere to safe stay after they lost their apartment. See how support from community members like you helped Glenn and his family thrive.

Housing Stability

Gaining Daily Inspiration Through Volunteering

Thursday, Sep. 12, 2019

I've been in Portland, Oregon almost 20 years now, half of my lifetime, so to say the least, I consider Portland my second home. And I want to make sure that I leave this place better than when I first got here, so I began volunteering.

Culture

United Way Statement Against Violence

Thursday, Aug. 15, 2019

At United Way, we are working hard to build a region that lives up to the ideals of inclusion, opportunity and racial equity. We believe hate has no place in our communities. Now, more than ever, is the time to stand united.