At United Way of the Columbia-Willamette (UWCW), we lead with racial equity. We know that structural racism and other forms of oppression contribute to persistent disparities in our region. Alongside our partners, grantees, and community leaders, we work to develop solutions that advance health, well-being, and equity for all.
Across the state, culturally specific and culturally responsive organizations stepped up to serve their communities during the 2020 wildfires. We prioritized grants to these organizations, as they became de-facto disaster rapid response teams, often having to put their regular missions to the side during the crisis.
This report captures what we learned from our grantees, as we work to build trust and redirect resources to organizations with deep connections in their communities. We know disasters exacerbate existing inequalities and disproportionately hurt the most vulnerable. We also know disasters provide opportunities to re-imagine the systems that shape our lives—and our grantees are asking for transformational change.
We are grateful to leaders on the frontlines, working diligently to uplift their communities. We are also grateful to our partners and funders, who share our commitment to centering racial equity in disaster relief and recovery.
We look forward to our continued collaboration.
Download the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette Wildfire Response and Recovery Fund Report below
Click here for English version
Click here for Spanish version
