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. 

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.”

Team Member Spotlight: Madeline Jaross

Thursday, Oct. 20, 2016
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.

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. 

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. 

Team Member Spotlight: Latino Employee Resource Group

Wednesday, Sep. 14, 2016
Between September 15 and October 15 of each year, our nation pays tribute to the Hispanic and Latino community during Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the impact individuals with this shared identity have made in the U.S. At United Way, the Latino Employee Resource Group has played an important role in shaping our workplace.

Team Member Spotlight: Mayra Arreola

Wednesday, May. 11, 2016
As Director of Community Collaborations and Investments here at United Way, Mayra Arreola is a tireless advocate for underserved communities and highly visible presence in our work to break the cycle of poverty in our region. We asked her to reflect on recently becoming a U.S. citizen and how her lived experiences connect to her work.

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.

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.

Multnomah County Leaders are Matching Smart Action to Good Intention

Monday, Mar. 28, 2016
Despite our good intentions to date, another generation of kids and families is being left behind. Right here, in our own backyard. That’s why I applaud the Multnomah County Chair and Commissioners for taking an important step forward in the way we invest resources in the SUN Service System.