We all desire to be seen and acknowledged for who we are — not just for what we can do or the challenges we have been through.
When Justice Oregon for Black Lives launched in 2020, it was in response to what we’d heard, what we’d seen on our television screens and on our streets. It was a response to what years, decades of data revealed about the experiences that Black Oregonians faced throughout our state. Inequitable access to employment, housing, community safety and fair treatment.
As we begin to reflect on the first five years of Justice Oregon and chart the next iteration of this work, we have already learned far more than we anticipated.
The creation of the initiative alongside community members helped reset the balance of whose voice was centered and whose expertise was valued. If we believe in the strength, ingenuity and wisdom of community, how do we trust that? How do we show that? We started by listening and to this day, that has been one of the greatest pathways to growth and impact.
We learned that building the capacity to serve the Black community well takes time, especially when you haven’t received equal opportunities from the start. But that time and support paid off with stronger leadership, infrastructure and programs and helped create the conditions for more transformative and lasting change.
Shifting from a competitive model of grantmaking to one that centered collective learning, collaboration and relationship-building laid the groundwork for innovative ideas. We have been able to plant seeds of connection and belonging among organizations and their leaders — efforts that build up energy and momentum rather than causing more exhaustion and competition.
We’ve got some good momentum and positive progress but that’s not enough. Five years wasn’t going to erase centuries of injustice or inadequate access to opportunities. You will continue to see Meyer delving into this work — refining how we can provide better capacity building support and seed collaborative solutions to longstanding problems — alongside a revamped community advisory group. The Meyer Board of Trustees’ decision to incorporate this initiative into our ongoing work signals its importance for the Black community and all of Oregon.
Over the last five years, more than 130 organizations have received a Justice Oregon grant. Forty-seven percent received their first Meyer grants through this initiative. Intentionality yields results.
Early qualitative analysis of information from our grantees shows Justice Oregon’s general operating funds and multiyear funding has helped grantees strengthen their organizational operations, deepen their programming, and have a greater impact in ways that would not have been possible with other types of funding.
Incredibly, 84% of grantees report that they have been able to leverage their Justice Oregon grants to secure funding from other sources. All organizations have a beginning. To be part of that is an honor, an opportunity — not just a risk.
Our CEO Toya Fick frequently says that one of our best takeaways from this first-of-its-kind initiative should be the lessons and results that can inform grantmaking throughout the rest of our organization. That’s on our list too. As our grantees are continuing to implement this fifth year of funding, we look forward to sharing more of our lessons, our plans and stories of impact in the coming months.
When my father wanted to drop some financial wisdom on me, he didn’t sit me down for a lecture, he told stories. His favorite? The one about how he and my mother arrived in Los Estados Unidos with just $100 in their pockets and a determination to build a better life.
Growing up on a small ranch in rural Mexico, he experienced poverty from a very early age. By 25, with few opportunities and even fewer resources, he made the decision to leave. With my mother by his side and nothing but grit, hope and — as the story goes — a single $100 bill, they crossed the border in search of something more. To drive the lesson home, he’d sometimes pull out a crisp $100 bill from his secret stash under the mattress (the classic immigrant bank) and wave it like a magic ticket — “This,” he’d say, “is all your mother and I had when we arrived in this country.”
As a kid, I had plenty of questions. Just $100? That wasn’t even enough for a week’s groceries! Even adjusted for inflation, back in 1977, it was roughly $524 — not exactly the start-up capital for the American Dream. And yet, my parents made it work. No guaranteed job, no English, no roadmap — just determination, resourcefulness and a willingness to learn.
Now, as I work with my colleagues at Meyer to advance economic justice, I think a lot about my parents' journey. Financial literacy matters, but it’s not the whole story. Hard work and smart choices weren’t enough to shield my family from systemic barriers — barriers that still exist today, keeping too many people from real economic opportunity. The system wasn’t built for everyone to thrive equally, which is why Meyer’s commitment to systemic change, community-driven solutions and direct family engagement in income stability and wealth-building is more critical than ever.
Economic stability isn’t just about a paycheck — it’s about dignity, opportunity and the ability to build something lasting for future generations. Yet, access to wealth-building tools — homeownership, business opportunities, career pathways — is still inequitable, locked behind networks that have long excluded marginalized communities.
This is where Oregon’s nonprofits play a vital role. Through access to capital, financial education, workforce development and policy advocacy, they equip families with vital resources to break through these barriers and build intergenerational wealth.
Through the 2024 Funding Opportunity, we’ve invested in 41 organizations with awards totaling $5.9 million.
A Comprehensive Approach to Economic Justice
Oregon’s BIPOC population is growing, and with it, the need for programs and support tailored to their cultural contexts. Of the grantees within the open funding opportunity in Our Collective Prosperity portfolio, 93% serve BIPOC communities and 73% are culturally responsive.
We know that offering job training helps workers access jobs with high wages and essential benefits. But when it comes to addressing barriers to entry, simply providing career education is not enough. Supporting partners engaged in legal defense and advocacy work aimed at protecting employees from unsafe and unjust work environments is equally important.
The Filipino Bayanihan Center is set to launch a pilot project aimed at providing outreach, advocacy, and legal assistance for individuals employed in the caregiving sector ($100,000). Additionally, the Clear Clinic, in collaboration with the Northwest Workers Justice Project and the National Immigration Project, will expand its Deferred Action for Labor Enforcement (DALE) program ($200,000).
Our grantees are also helping aspiring business owners navigate the barriers to financial success, whether by providing hands-on business development support, access to loans and grants, assistance with navigating government procurement processes and advocacy efforts aimed at securing more resources for BIPOC business owners.
The Oregon Public Health Institute is set to expand its "Right from the Start" (RFTS) Black Childcare Business Accelerator program ($120,000) while Community LendingWorks will maintain its micro-lending opportunities for small businesses in rural Oregon ($150,000).
To build long-term financial stability, we must engage the entire family in multigenerational asset-building. Many grantees under this umbrella equip communities of color with opportunities including workforce development, microbusiness opportunities and supplementary services like individual development savings accounts (IDAs), direct cash programs, and leadership development.
Coalición Fortaleza will expand its economic opportunity programs to ensure that Latine survivors of the Almeda Fire in the Rogue Valley have access to housing, job opportunities, and income stability ($300,000/ 2 yr). Additionally, Outside In will pilot a basic income program for homeless BIPOC youth ($150,000).
Stable and affordable housing is a cornerstone of financial security. That’s why we’re investing in organizations that partner with tenants, renters and homeowners to strengthen community organizing and advocacy efforts. These initiatives range from tenant rights and fair housing protections to technical assistance for culturally specific housing providers.
The Community Alliance of Tenants will continue to educate, organize, and develop the leadership of low-income and BIPOC tenants ($250,000/ 2 yr). Their efforts support policy initiatives aimed at controlling rental housing costs, increasing the emergency rent assistance safety net, eliminating no-cause evictions, funding legal support and training tenants to assert their rights.
Homeownership is another critical avenue for wealth-building, but too many families — especially BIPOC families — have been historically excluded due to discriminatory policies and unjust urban development practices. Our funding prioritizes organizations that provide people with options, such as traditional home buying models or land trusts, that can create opportunities for long-term wealth building.
Building Prosperity, Together
The impact of Our Collective Prosperity’s grantees extends beyond individual programs — it’s about fostering collaboration across sectors to create systemic change. We’ve learned that many of our grantee partners already incorporate this work into their overall direct services or special projects. By supporting a network of organizations that share knowledge, advocate for policy change and uplift community-led solutions, we’re helping build an Oregon where economic justice is not just a goal, but a reality.
As we move forward at Meyer, we remain committed to working alongside our grantees, partners and communities to dismantle barriers, advance economic justice and build a future where all Oregonians can thrive.
Congratulations to each of this year’s Our Collective Prosperity grantee partners!
— Maribel
Our Collective Prosperity Grantees
2024 Funding Opportunity applicants submitted proposals under one of the following portfolio goals. Here are the awarded organizations organized by those goals.
Goal 1: Close the Racial Wealth Gap
Black American Chamber of Commerce
Black Business Association of Oregon
Clear Clinic ( Collaborative)
Community LendingWorks
Constructing Hope Pre-Apprenticeship Program
Evolve Workforce & Multifamily Housing Services
Filipino Bayanihan Center
Habitat for Humanity of Oregon
Hispanic Metropolitan Chamber
Latino Founders
Leaders Become Legends
Metropolitan Family Service
MicroEnterprise Resources, Initiatives & Training
National Association of Minority Contractors-Oregon
Living Cully (Collaborative)
Northeast Oregon Economic Development District
Northwest Native Chamber
Oregon Tradeswomen, Inc
Street Roots
The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon
VertueLab
Voz Workers' Rights Education Project
Goal 2: Support Thriving Families
African Youth & Community Organization
Bradley Angle
Coalición Fortaleza
Community & Shelter Assistance Corporation
Consejo Hispano
FinAbility
Latino Community Association
Oregon Public Health Institute
Outside In
REACH Inc
Rural Development Initiatives
Unidos Bridging Community
Goal 3: Promote Housing Justice and Pathways to Homeownership
My 25 years as a community organizer, campaign strategist and nonprofit executive director have given me an intimate understanding of the challenges faced by frontline communities — the groups most affected by the climate crisis and environmental injustice. The knowledge these communities possess is essential for fostering a stronger connection with our environment and one another.
In transitioning from nonprofit leadership to philanthropy, I wanted to honor those frontline perspectives, continue to build community power and foster the deep transformative relationships essential for change. In my first year at Meyer, I’ve been able to do much of that. I’ve had opportunities to influence funding decisions, promote systemic change and support numerous organizations in their vital work.
I am honored to guide Our Resilient Places, one of Meyer’s three topical funding portfolios. This body of work prioritizes holistic and community-informed approaches to how we care for our environment. It has an explicit focus on the necessary transition from an extractive economy (one that exploits and depletes) to a regenerative economy (one based on community care and balance).
By investing in organizations that center environmental justice, we work to ensure that Oregon’s lands, water and historically marginalized communities are resilient in the face of the climate crisis.
Fueling the Ecosystem
We're thrilled to announce a significant step forward in our commitment to climate and environmental justice: through our 2024 Funding Opportunity, we’ve invested in 41 organizations with awards totaling $6.9 million.
This year's grant recipients are working tirelessly on issues ranging from land rematriation and traditional ecological knowledge to youth empowerment and biocultural restoration. What truly stands out is the dedication to centering the experiences and expertise of frontline and Indigenous communities.
One shining example of this is the Pandion Institute, which empowers tribal youth through transformative outdoor experiences that promote well-being and cultural and environmental stewardship ($75,000). Their work cultivates a generation of leaders deeply connected to their heritage and the natural world. Pandion's history, rooted in a 2021 collaborative effort to bring Native youth back to their homelands, exemplifies the power of community-driven initiatives.
Similarly, Nvn-Nes-a Land Trust, founded in 2023 by Siletz tribal members, focuses on the return of homelands into Native hands and the revival of traditional stewardship practices ($92,500). Their mission to facilitate land rematriation and provide safe access to traditional homelands is a powerful act of environmental justice and cultural revitalization. By supporting the families traditionally responsible for land stewardship, they are ensuring long-term, sustainable management of these vital resources.
Vesper Meadow also highlights the importance of biocultural restoration and community engagement ($167,000). Founded in 2018, Vesper Meadow has become a hub for decolonizing restoration and community education. Their work, which includes supporting the Indigenous Gardens Network and co-producing a Fire Ecology curriculum with the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, demonstrates the deep connection between ecological health and cultural well-being.
The Power of Collaboration
Notably, seven of our 41 grants went to collaborative projects — the most in any of the three portfolios. These grants, awarded to two or more groups working together, underscore the power of collective action. By bringing together diverse organizations, we can achieve far greater impact than by working in isolation. Collaboration allows for the sharing of resources, knowledge, and networks, creating a more robust and effective response to complex challenges. These collaborations are building "the bigger we," fostering stronger networks and unified efforts for systemic change.
With focuses ranging from air quality to urban heat islands, these grants are not just about addressing immediate issues; they are about building long-term, systemic change. By investing in collaboration, we are laying the groundwork for a more just and sustainable future. This work is urgent, especially in the state of Oregon, where we are witnessing firsthand the impacts of climate change, from increased wildfires and extreme weather events to habitat loss and threats to biodiversity.
Reframing Resilience through Community Strength
Oregon’s unique ecosystems and diverse communities make it both vulnerable and resilient. We have a responsibility to protect our natural heritage and ensure that all Oregonians have access to clean air, clean water, and healthy environments. The urgency is palpable, and the need for action is now. The initiatives supported by these grants are critical to addressing these challenges and building a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
The 41 grants awarded this year represent a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. We are incredibly proud to support these organizations and their vital work. Together, we can build a future where climate and environmental justice are not just goals but realities. The dedication, passion, and expertise of these grantees is inspiring, and we are excited to see the positive impact they will have on our communities and our planet.
— Huy
Our Resilient Places Grantees
2024 Funding Opportunity applicants submitted proposals under one of the following portfolio goals. Here are the awarded organizations organized by those goals.
Goal 1: Affirm BIPOC communities’ relationship to place
Black Farm Bureau - Black Food Sovereignty Coalition
I have worked in and around education my entire 22-year career. I’ve coordinated youth programs in a small rural community in Eastern Washington, worked in higher education at public and private colleges, awarded grants to fund educational programs in philanthropy, and led educational initiatives at the state level. I also currently serve on my local school board.
All that is to say I have experienced different sides of the educational world and I’ve witnessed more than a few educational initiatives that began with great promise, only to be abandoned or defunded before they had the chance to yield real transformation.
And yet, stability and commitment are more important than ever as we work to support young Oregonians in school and life. It takes time to see significant change in education and we need to stay the course to allow efforts to mature.
The cumulative impact of historical underinvestment in education, learning losses exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and current efforts to dismantle the Department of Education threaten to further destabilize the structural and funding supports that are in place to ensure equitable access to opportunity. Even with increased funding from the state in the last five years, our student outcomes have not improved and in most cases have continued to get worse.
It’s no surprise that our youth-serving organizations and educational institutions are strongly signaling the need for more support. We received 330 applications for funding through Our Empowered Youth — the most of all three portfolios in our 2024 funding opportunity
I am incredibly proud to announce that we have invested in 47 organizations with awards totaling $7.3 million. Here are some highlights from the awards, followed by the full list of all 2024 funding opportunity grantees. Congratulations to all!
Community-Driven Approach
When we launched the Empowered Youth portfolio last year, we listened to our community, followed the research and considered the educational policy landscape to understand where Meyer dollars could have the greatest impact. One enduring lesson is that our chances of success are much improved when we follow the lead of our communities. That is, when we invest in efforts that empower students, families and educators to advocate for the policies and programs that will best serve them.
A standout example of this is a partnership between the Jefferson 509J School District and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs to develop a Native dual language immersion program so that Indigenous students can learn in a culturally affirming environment ($200,000).
A Workforce that Reflects Our Diverse Youth
More than 41% of Oregon’s K-12 classrooms are filled with students of color, yet fewer than 14% of today’s educator workforce share their racial or ethnic backgrounds. Culturally relevant, community-led programs are essential in addressing this disparity. By funding initiatives that support historically underserved students, we are working to close the opportunity gap and ensure that every child has access to an education that meets their needs.
Chemeketa Community College is collaborating with five other community colleges across Oregon to develop a Bachelors of Applied Science in Education consortium. Their shared goal is to develop accessible and affordable pathways for diverse educators in rural communities ($300,000).
Expanding Access in Rural and Underserved Areas
Rural communities face unique barriers to education, from limited financial resources to geographic isolation. Some of the grants that are specific to those communities include: Project Youth+, an organization working to engage first-generation, low-income and under-represented college students in Southern Oregon ($100,000); Four Rivers Community School, a public charter school working to strengthen transitions from early education to college and career for bilingual and bicultural students in Malheur County ($175,000); and the Sitka Center for Art and Ecology, dedicated to bringing more BIPOC artists into rural coastal schools and enriching arts education for all students through their K-8 Create program ($140,000).
Addressing Root Causes of Inequities
In addition to direct student support, many of our grantees are working to address the root causes of inequities in education.
The Early Childhood Equity Collaborative is working to improve pay and training for early childhood educators ($90,000). Vision to Learn is advocating for state funding to provide free vision screenings and glasses for all students ($60,000). Better Together Central Oregon is bringing school districts, higher education, social service agencies and community leaders together to improve systems alignment and track student outcomes in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties ($290,000).
Defending Education in a Challenging Political Landscape
I want to close by acknowledging the reality of our world right now. Our democratic institutions are under attack, especially our educational institutions.
Many critical efforts which support our most marginalized and vulnerable students, including children with disabilities, English language learners and students of color are being dismantled under the guise of fairness and equality.
Our team at Meyer is working hard to respond knowing that at the end of the day, our grant dollars can only go so far. So we will work alongside our community and fight to maintain and protect these important programs. We must support each other and advocate for a future in which all of our students can thrive in a just and equitable educational environment.
— Michael
Our Empowered Youth Grantees
2024 Funding Opportunity applicants submitted proposals under one of the following portfolio goals. Here are the awarded organizations organized by those goals.
Goal 1: Build Power for a Thriving Education
Afghan Support Network
Better Together Central Oregon
Black Educational Achievement Movement
Black Parent Initiative
Children's Institute Early Childhood Equity Collaborative
Disability Rights Oregon
Eastern Oregon University Foundation
Elevate Oregon
Jackson County Community Services Consortium
Muslim Educational Trust
Oregon Trio Association
Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center
Project Youth+ College Dreams
Southern Oregon Child and Family Council
Vision to Learn
Young Roots Oregon
Goal 2: Close the Opportunity Gap
Chemeketa Community College Collaborative
College Possible
Columbia Gorge ESD Collaborative
Four Rivers Community School
Get Schooled Foundation
Girls Inc. of the Pacific Northwest
Jefferson County School District 509J
Josephine County Foundation
Marshallese American Network for Interacting Together
Neskowin Coast Foundation
Northwest Alliance for Alternative Media and Education
Northwest Regional Education Service District
Portland All Nations Canoe Family
Reading Results
The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Youth Empowerment Project PNW
Goal 3: Build an educational system that reflects our students
Be BLAC Foundation
Center for African Immigrants and Refugees Organization
Clackamas Education Service District
Eugene School District 4J
Mentoring Individuals Into New Territory Through Education
Multnomah Education Service District Collaborative
Native American, Native Hawaiian, and Alaska Native PLC
Without community, there is no liberation. — Audre Lorde
For too long, Black communities have faced chronic underfunding, creating competition for scarce resources and tokenizing organizations instead of fostering true collective power. We recognize that no single organization can uplift community alone. That’s why, in our latest round of funding through Justice Oregon for Black Lives, we leaned into the power of collaboration — asking organizations to join forces, dream bigger and build together.
Now, we’re proud to announce $5.7 million in multiyear grants to 13 collaboratives working to create lasting change for Black Oregonians. Some of these groups have long-standing relationships, while others used this opportunity to deepen their partnerships and reimagine what’s possible when resources are shared, not competed for.
The proposals we received reflect the nuance, complexity and richness of our communities. Black Oregonians are not a monolith, and these grants uplift a range of approaches to systemic change — from education and economic justice to housing and healthcare.
Below, we highlight a handful of these projects, offering a glimpse into the transformative work ahead.
Fostering a Diverse Educator Workforce
Oregon’s education system faces a stark representation gap: while students of color comprise 40% of the statewide student population, only 12% of educators share similar backgrounds. In the Reynold’s School District where HOLLA School is located, the number of students of color jumps to 70%. Studies show that students with at least one teacher of the same race have improved academic performance, better attendance and lower rates of suspension.
HOLLA School is addressing this challenge through a Grow Your Own Teacher Pathways collaborative with the Oregon Alliance of Black School Educators, Pacific University and Portland Community College. This initiative provides tuition-free, mentored pathways for BIPOC participants to earn teaching degrees and licenses, breaking down barriers to educator certification and fostering a more representative educator workforce.
Cultivating Food Sovereignty and Economic Justice
Black farmers own less than 1% of the nation’s farmland, while their white counterparts own approximately 95%. In Oregon, one in five Black families experiences hunger, with food insecurity rates nearly triple those of white households. These disparities stem from historical inequities in land access, agricultural support and economic opportunity.
Through this collaborative, these organizations reduce duplicative efforts, strengthen networks and create sustainable solutions for food security and economic justice. Working together shifts the nonprofit paradigm from competitive to cooperative — creating a powerful ecosystem of linked programming that reinforces the impact of the other — ensuring Black agricultural communities in Oregon thrive.
Building Climate Resilience for Black Homeowners
Systemic inequities make it harder for Black homeowners to access energy-efficient upgrades. Studies show they are quoted 8% higher prices for solar installations than white households and have less access to local installers. For low-income families who spend nearly three times as much on energy expenses than the average household, this financial burden means less money for other basic needs.
To address these disparities, the African American Alliance for Homeownership, Taking Ownership PDX and Constructing Hope have launched the Sustainable Black Community Collaborative (SBCC). SBCC not only provides free energy-efficient home upgrades and steeply discounted solar installations for Black homeowners, their job training program also ensures this work is installed by a workforce that reflects the community it serves.
Healing Through Community and Connection
Black communities in Oregon make up just 2.5% of the population and often face cultural isolation, fueling feelings of hopelessness. Historical and present-day inequities compound these challenges, impacting overall health and wellness.
Collaboration is Fundamental for Long-term Progress
In all these projects, one thing is clear: collaboration is key to building thriving ecosystems by and for Black Oregonians. The collaborative model underscores the importance of shared goals and collective action and will serve as part of Justice Oregon’s grantmaking going forward. By leveraging the expertise and resources of each organization, collaboratives can utilize a more holistic approach to systemic change.
This is just as true in philanthropy. We are committed to deepening our connection with funders and will return to our participatory framework that allows for partnership within the community. By working together, we not only amplify our impact but also create sustainable solutions that foster a more resilient future for Black communities.
Congratulations to each of the Justice Oregon for Black Lives collaborative grantee partners. For more information on these or other Justice Oregon awards, visit our award database.
“The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” — Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
I have loved this quote since I was a kid. But today, more than ever, I understand that justice doesn’t bend on its own. It takes work, courage and collective action to ensure the arc moves in the right direction.
As we honor Black History Month, I am reflecting on what this moment in history demands of us. With a new administration in power, we are already seeing executive orders that threaten the rights, dignity and well-being of the very communities we stand with and support. Meyer will not be silent in the face of injustice.
So let me be clear: Meyer remains unwavering in our mission and resolute in our commitment to the people and places of Oregon. We are the same Meyer we were before January 20. The election may have shifted the political landscape, but it has not changed our principles. We will not retreat. We will not compromise our values. Instead, we will deepen our resolve, expand our support and accelerate our efforts where they are needed most.
Responding with Urgency
Last month, Meyer committed $1 million in rapid-response funding to organizations that have long been preparing for this moment. Groups like the ACLU of Oregon, Western States Center and Rural Organizing Project are actively working on the front lines to protect civil rights, defend democracy and build coalitions. We will continue to fund and amplify the efforts of those who protect vulnerable and marginalized communities.
We are also streamlining and increasing funding to the Oregon Immigrant and Refugee Collaborative so that critical dollars can flow swiftly to organizations supporting immigrants, refugees and communities under direct threat. We are committed to acting decisively so that the essential work of advocacy, legal defense and community support continues.
Investing in the kind of coalition building, leadership support, community organizing and policy work that will be necessary to protect vital civil rights is fundamental to building a stronger and more resilient Oregon.
We know that federal funding plays a critical role in our community, providing the resources that many Oregonians may not otherwise have access to. The chaotic implementation of executive orders has already resulted in funding freezes for some organizations, disrupting their ability to provide essential services. While local philanthropy doesn't have the ability to provide that same scale of funding, Meyer is committed to finding ways we can support frontline organizations so that their work can continue without interruption.
Planning for the Future: Building a United Front
Beyond immediate response, we are engaging with community leaders, policymakers and philanthropic partners at both the state and national levels to align strategies, leverage resources and ensure long-term resilience. The challenges ahead demand not just funding but coordination, learning and collective action. By strengthening our networks and deepening collaboration, we position ourselves to not only resist harmful policies but to build toward a more just future.
A Call to Action: The Society We Choose to Build
Last week, at the Mark O. Hatfield Lecture in Portland, I had the honor of hearing from Pulitzer Prize-winning author, educator and founder of The 1619 Project, Nikole Hannah-Jones. Among her many powerful insights, one in particular lingers in my mind:
“The society we have is not the one we have to have.”
This moment in history is ours to shape. Philanthropy is just one piece of the puzzle, but Meyer is steadfast in our commitment to leveraging our resources in solidarity with the individuals, organizations and institutions fighting for a just future. Together, we will protect, defend and build the Oregon we all deserve.
We move forward with hope, with determination and with you.
“Democracy is not something you have, but something you do. It is a verb.” - Marshall Ganz, Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University
With the election only days away, immigration, reproductive health and civic engagement have taken center stage in the national political conversation. However, these are not just “hot button” political topics; they’re central to the health of our democracy and how justice is delivered in America.
Through our initiative, Together, We Rise, Meyer is proud to support groups working on these and other issues core to developing BIPOC leaders and building inclusive movements here in Oregon.
What is Together, We Rise?
While immigration, reproductive justice, and civic engagement are getting extra attention right now, we at Meyer think about them often. I've had the privilege of working in this space at Meyer for more than 18 years, first through our Building Communities portfolio and now through our recently launched strategic initiative.
Together, We Rise funds leadership development, civic engagement, community organizing, movement building and field infrastructure. These are fundamental to a healthy democracy and critical for advancing Meyer's goals across all our program areas. We focus on supporting organizations that work in historically underserved communities. These organizations engage and support community members, helping them advocate for policy change, overcome historical barriers to civic participation and increase their sense of belonging.
This year, through Together, We Rise, Meyer will award more than 30 grants totaling more than $5 million to support organizations doing this vital work. (Funding this year was by invitation, but that might change in the future.)
Immigration: Supporting Human Dignity
Immigrants who have made their home in Oregon are a part of our social fabric and contribute to our collective prosperity. Yet, they are regularly used as scapegoats in increasingly hostile political rhetoric. Below is a selection of Together, We Rise grantees working to reform our broken immigration system and ensure Oregon’s immigrant and refugee communities are not only protected, but empowered.
Northwest Workers Justice Project: Addresses workplace health and safety violations and protects workers from exploitation, abuse and employer theft
Innovation Law Lab: Works to end the isolation and exploitation of immigrants and refugees and build permanent pathways to immigrant inclusion
Oregon Rural Action: Leads grassroots efforts in Eastern Oregon for farmworker rights, social justice and environmental equity
Reproductive Health: Protecting Rights
Reproductive health has been weaponized this political season. However numerous groups are working to preserve Oregonians’ bodily autonomy and access to necessary healthcare. We’ve supported the organizations below in their work to protect these essential freedoms:
Family Forward Oregon: Focuses on caregiving, gender and reproductive justice, helping BIPOC leaders drive change
ACLU of Oregon: Through their Equal Rights For All campaign, they’re working to further secure abortion rights and healthcare protections for all Oregonians
Civic Engagement: Building an Inclusive Democracy
A healthy democracy requires active civic participation. Everyone deserves a say in shaping our future. But too often marginalized communities face systemic barriers to voting and other forms of engagement. We're supporting the organizations below in their work to break down these barriers and create a truly inclusive system where everyone's voice is heard.
Oregon Futures Lab: Provides training and support for incoming leaders from marginalized communities on collaborative and inclusive governance models.
More Equitable Democracy: Promotes ranked-choice voting to create fairer, more representative electoral systems
Oregon State Voice: Amplifies the political power of BIPOC-led organizations across the state
Next Up Oregon: Fosters diverse young activists to achieve a more just and equitable Oregon
The Work Continues
No matter the outcome of our upcoming elections, the need for immigration reform, reproductive justice and inclusive elections will continue. These issues won’t be resolved overnight.
At Meyer, we remain committed to this work for the long haul, knowing that systemic change takes time, effort and sustained support.
“When you get these jobs that you have been so brilliantly trained for, just remember that your real job is that if you are free, you need to free somebody else. If you have some power, then your job is to empower somebody else creative." - Toni Morrison
With the future of democracy at the forefront of our minds, we met up with Erin Kothari, the executive director of Oregon Futures Lab, to learn more about her organization’s philosophy on BIPOC leadership development and what keeps her grounded.
What drives you?
I come from a long line of strong women. I’m a hometown girl; a third-generation Japanese American originally from Gresham. My great-grandmother and grandmother ran a grocery store, and they worked hard to build something meaningful for their community. I feel a duty to carry that forward in my own way. It’s about justice, service and showing up for my community. I want to make a difference, but I also want to make sure that future leaders — especially those from underrepresented backgrounds — are set up to thrive.
What’s new at Oregon Futures Lab?
One of the main programs we launched in 2022 and continue today is called Care for Disruptive Leadership. It’s a six-month cohort program focused on trauma-informed care and wellness. We designed it to help local elected officials, especially those who are either the first or the only in their positions, find community, identify stressors and receive the support they need to continue their work. A major realization was that leaders need more than just technical skills — they need to be cared for and supported to succeed. The long-term goal is not just to sustain individuals, but to cultivate a leadership pipeline that reflects our communities and supports them throughout their journey.
How have other leadership programs been taking shape?
The BIPOC Executive Director Support Cohort is a program we launched this year, specifically for BIPOC executive directors. After extensive interviews with leaders across Oregon, we realized there was a need for a space where they could connect, build relationships and address challenges unique to their roles. This program started with 15 executive directors, and we’ve been meeting monthly for professional development, workshops and retreats. It’s been a great first year, and we’re already planning for next year to deepen those relationships.
How do you manage your own self-care as a leader?
Honestly, it’s tough. Care for Disruptive Leadership is designed to support leaders, but sometimes even I struggle to prioritize myself. We have to create intentional spaces for leaders to seek care, which is something I try to remind myself to do, too. Leaders need grace, curiosity, and opportunities for rest, and that’s something I’m still learning to balance. I think, for leaders, it’s important to ask for grace, not just from others but from ourselves. We need to remind each other that no one can do it all. The critique culture is strong, but what we need more of is a culture of cultivation — supporting and uplifting leaders instead of just holding them accountable.
What is the future you envision for your community?
I believe the future of leadership in Oregon is BIPOC. The demographics of our student population reflect that, and I think we’re heading toward a future where leadership at every level is more diverse. That’s why it’s so important to invest in and sustain these leaders now. If we’re going to achieve a racially just Oregon, we need leaders who reflect our communities and are supported holistically in their roles. It’s not just about putting someone in a position — it’s about giving them the tools and community they need to thrive.
As the election approaches, what is top of mind for you?
I'm feeling excited and optimistic. While we may not win every race, success shouldn't be defined solely by wins or losses. This election will offer valuable lessons, especially in Oregon, that will make us more organized and effective in the future. I believe movement building is evolving, and we need to focus on authentic, one-on-one connections to meet our communities' needs.
What's something that recently brought you joy?
Connecting with my community and seeing leaders find their stride brings me a lot of joy. Recently, I’ve been enjoying small moments with my kids — just spending time with them, seeing the world through their eyes. It reminds me why I’m doing this work, and it helps me stay grounded.
Since we opened our complimentary event space, the Center for Great Purposes, in October 2023, it’s become a popular resource for many of our grantees. In the past year, we’ve hosted more than 80 events and welcomed over 1,300 community members into our space. We’ve had many organizations hold multiple events in the Center, and we’d love to see even more of our grantees take advantage of this flexible, complimentary event space.
Here’s what you should know if you’re thinking about holding a meeting, workshop, or community gathering in the Center:
Multi-Purpose Space
Located on the first floor of our Portland-based offices, the Center for Great Purposes is open to any Meyer grantee with an active grant. So long as it’s available, you can use the space as many times as you need, whether for a single event or a multi-day gathering. We don’t allow weekly repeating events at this time.
With a room that can accommodate up to 100 people, the Center is designed for flexibility. We’ve hosted everything from large gala receptions to small strategy meetings. Your rental comes with access to the event room, a pre-function area, an adjoining garden and a catering kitchen. Daytime street parking is available.
User-Friendly Tech
Our grantees consistently rave about our tech setup and its ease of use. The room comes with a Zoom-compatible TV wall, two microphones and a sound system. So, whether you’re hosting an in-person or hybrid meeting, the Center is ready to handle it. Also, for the less tech-savvy, someone on our team is always on hand to help with issues as they arise.
Catering and Layout Flexibility
We know that planning an event means juggling a lot of details. To make things easy, we keep our policies as flexible as possible.
We have an open catering policy. Feel free to bring your own food or work with the caterer of your choice. We are also happy to recommend some local caterers we’ve worked with before.
The Center is equipped with 24 rectangular tables and 100 chairs and can be set up in a few different ways to suit your needs. You can also bring in outside furniture, like bistro or dining tables. Just keep in mind that, while we’re happy to accommodate these options, we leave coordinating the logistics up to you.
If you’re bringing someone to film your event, let us know ahead of time to ensure there’s room for the extra equipment.
Looking to Book?
Currently, we can accommodate events Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Reservations are filling up for the remaining months of 2024, with broader availability in the early months of 2025. I encourage folks to reach out at least a month in advance with a few date options.
To learn more, set up a tour or book the Center for your next event, contact us at reservations [at] mmt.org or call 503-228-5512.
What Grantees are Saying
“We’ve had the pleasure of hosting three significant events in the Center,” says Tai Love, development director at Portland Housing Center. “Each allowed us to bring together larger groups than our own space permits.”
“Latino Network held a training series for our program managers at Meyer’s Center for Great Purposes,” says Micaela Alvarez Orgambidez, agency project manager and fiscal support specialist. “It allowed us to offer a hybrid series where people could attend virtually or in person. I attended virtually and was impressed by the visual and audio quality.”
“It is such a blessing to have a space like this,” says Jenn Luevano-Brummett, community impact project manager at Social Venture Partners Portland. “We’ve used the Center for Great Purposes for various gatherings and it always reduces stress for planning, especially with the staff going above and beyond to ensure our events are successful.”
There’s a saying in Indian Country that goes, “If you’ve met with one tribe, you’ve met with one tribe.” This saying reveals an important truth: while the needs and priorities of each tribe can be similar, they can also be vastly different. There is no one-size-fits-all approach.
I was reminded of this recently while meeting with tribes throughout the region to build new relationships and strengthen long-standing ties. I, alongside a group of partners in philanthropy and government, spent the summer touring our region. We traveled to Warm Springs to meet with Dustin Seyler, the small business program manager for the Warm Springs Community Action Team. While taking us through the reservation, Dustin told us about how the lack of public gathering space had impacted the community. The once vibrant commissary had become in need of deep repair. With funding to restore this historic structure, the space would provide jobs and nourishment.
This summer, CEO Toya Fick and I met with Chairwoman Brenda Meade and other leaders of the Coquille Tribe. While walking through the halls of their early education offices and wellness center, I saw the care and compassion each person brought to serving their community. There, I learned how important it was for healthcare workers to provide culturally competent medical treatment and wellness services for their community.
Finding Community in this Work
In each of these visits, while grappling with questions of how our cross-sector coalition could better support tribes, I also felt an immense appreciation for the affinity with like-minded people.
As a citizen of MHA Nation (The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation) who has held roles in government, nonprofits and philanthropy, I have found serving as a liaison for tribal relations can be lonely and progress, glacial. Balancing the needs of my community while navigating dominant cultural systems can be isolating. And yet, there are few things I take more pride in than being a Native leader.
I come from a long line of individuals who have strived to make an impact on behalf of Native communities. My grandma strived to create better systems within the Bureau of Indian Affairs. My auntie helped set mandates within the Bureau of Indian Education. My mom continues to serve tribes at the North Portland Area Indian Health Board. My dad lobbied and advocated on behalf of the Columbia River Treaty Tribes in D.C. While the list goes on and on, I’ve learned it's always important to take big swings on behalf of Native communities. And yet, at the same time, it's just as important to make the smaller efforts that improve the daily lives of all Indigenous peoples.
In our Tribal Funders Tour this summer, we were trying to build something that is oftentimes rare in this space: relationships and trust. By centering community, we’re continuing to build collective power.
In light of all of this, we at Meyer asked ourselves, “How could we respond to these vast needs and be accountable to our tribal partners?” Our answer: deeper investment and flexible funding.
Meyer’s approach to Native grantmaking reflects a shift toward recognizing the long-overdue need for equitable, intentional support of tribal sovereignty. Rooted in deep respect, a commitment to change and decades of groundwork, our strategy aims to decentralize our own role and center the voices, needs and priorities of sovereign tribal nations.
These needs and priorities have often been undervalued in a state founded upon the colonial notion of Manifest Destiny. Oregon’s history is laden with broken treaties, exploitation and genocide. Meyer’s Native grantmaking strategy attempts to address the broader power dynamics and historic harms that dominant institutions have inflicted on Indigenous communities.
Philanthropy has capitalized on the erasure of Indigenous peoples, as well as the seizure of their land for economic prosperity. We aim to be a thoughtful partner to tribes, acknowledging the complexity of tribal governance and the responsibility of philanthropy to work together in solidarity.
This year, Meyer will invest $2.25 million across Oregon’s nine federally-recognized tribes. This is the beginning of a sustained, flexible commitment to fund tribal priorities regardless of whether they align with Meyer’s other funding strategies. This isn’t about fit; it’s about honoring sovereignty. We recognize we need to better understand the nuances of each tribe's operating structures and priorities to make certain that Meyer's investment is making the desired impact. Alongside this, Meyer will continue to invest in organizations that support Native communities through our issue-based portfolios and strategic initiatives, which were also informed by our engagement with Native leaders. Investing in communities of color is central to our mission; it is part of our DNA.
To learn more about Meyer’s tribal grantmaking strategy, click here.
One of Many
Getting here has been no small undertaking. This work has evolved with contributions from both Native and non-Native leaders. I am incredibly grateful for our partners as well as current and former program and executive team members who have contributed their time and wisdom. Together, we are taking a vital step toward a more equitable and just future, where philanthropy supports Indigenous self-determination and tribal sovereignty, and honors the ancestral lands of Oregon’s first peoples.
As Gabe Sheoships (Cayuse/Walla Walla), the executive director of Friends of Tryon Creek, recently reminded me, “We’re all cogs in this wheel and it takes all of the cogs working together to turn it.”
