We are living in a moment of great uncertainty, where societal rules and norms are being thrown out the window for a politic of chaos and cruelty. It is a time when many of our grantees are feeling uncertain about how they can keep their organizations afloat, how they can keep their communities safe. It is a time when I have literally been asked, “Will philanthropy save us?”
The answer, of course, is no, it’s not actually possible to fill all the deficits that a potential lack of federal funding would leave. Beyond that, philanthropy is just one small piece of the puzzle. Because it’s not just money that will help us move forward in this work. We need each other. We need strong communities, we need movements, we need the ability to build a vision for the world we want to live in and to continue fighting for that vision.
When I was the executive director of Basic Rights Oregon, I often talked about the Oregon Equality Act, which bars discrimination against LGTBQ+ Oregonians. It passed in 2007, yet the majority of other states in the U.S. still do not have this very basic protection.
But the story of the equality act didn’t start in 2007 or even 2005. It was first introduced in Oregon in 1973. It took over 30 years to make it a reality and what changed wasn’t that the wording of the legislation was finally perfected. What changed was that a movement was built to shift people’s opinions on the rights of LGBTQ+ people to live lives free from discrimination.
When people say, “the world changed,” that change doesn’t just happen. Often that change looks like a lot of meetings, phone calls, door knocks, text banks and trainings. At the heart of all of those things are people connecting to other people — to educate, to inform, to move, to help each other feel less isolated in a world that can seem hellbent on making us feel alone and powerless.
So it is with that organizing ethos in mind that we announce Meyer's Summer Funding Opportunity. This opportunity is grounded in the belief that we can build the power to create the world we want to see. Because we spent the majority of our funding last year to make multi-year commitments, this summer’s opportunities are more focused on a few key goals and strategies.
For Our Collective Prosperity, that means working towards our mission of racial justice by focusing on Closing the Racial Wealth Gap and working to ensure our children’s futures through Multi-generational Asset Building. For Our Empowered Youth, the focus is on community organizing, with the goal of Building Power for A Thriving Education. For Our Resilient Places, the opportunity is centered on those most impacted by climate change, with a focus on Building Power for Frontline Communities. For Together, We Rise, the focus is on building those fundamentals of organizing, base building and leadership development, for Oregon’s coastal and rural communities.
Together, these opportunities represent a little more than $7 million of Meyer’s $48 million in grantmaking investments this year. Broadly, the other funding is situated in our multi-year investments, invited opportunities, collaborative grants and strategic work with other funders. At this moment, with all of our funding, it is so important for us to really lean into our mission of accelerating racial, social and economic justice for Oregon’s lands and peoples. And with this funding opportunity, our hope is that we are seeding the hard work of organizing and building the movement for a stronger Oregon, for all of us.
In April 2017, just two blocks from Meyer’s office, I joined thousands of people gathered at Dawson Park for the Portland People’s Climate Movement. At the time, I was Executive Director of OPAL Environmental Justice Oregon and part of a handful of organizers supporting the launch of the Oregon Just Transition Alliance (OJTA)—a network of frontline communities coming together to organize across issues and build collective power.
We marched not just to demand climate action, but to tell a broader story: that climate change is one symptom of deeper crises — ecological, economic and the crisis of empire (a shorthand term for the numerous moral and spiritual crises born from an imperialist and extractive economic model). We marched to show how housing justice, transportation access, immigrant rights and workers' rights are fundamentally tied to climate justice. And we invited everyone to imagine something bolder: an economic system rooted in cooperation, community and regeneration.
That day was powerful. It was beautiful. And it was needed.
Nearly a decade later, the urgency is no less real. But today, amid political uncertainty, social fragmentation and escalating climate impacts, it can feel harder to hold onto that collective vision. That’s why at Meyer, through the Our Resilient Places portfolio, we’ve committed to supporting the kind of organizing and movement-building that keeps those deeper connections and long-term solutions at the center.
Why Organizing?
Organizing gets the goods. That’s not just a mantra. It’s something I’ve witnessed over decades of movement work. When frontline communities organize — regardless of the issue — they build power. And when they build power, they win.
That’s why one of the goals of Meyer's Our Resilient Places portfolio is building power with frontline communities. We have limited funds and know that dollars spent sharpening frontline groups’ advocacy and leadership skills and expanding their movement-building capacity are a wise investment.
Community organizing is about more than issue advocacy: It’s about long-term relationships, collective analysis, skills development and deep community accountability. It’s what helps us prepare for crises and it roots our vision for a more just world. When shifting political forces threaten hard-fought rights, these durable networks of trust and resistance become essential.
Organizing in Action
We’re already seeing this approach in motion across Oregon:
Oregon Just Transition Alliance (OJTA) continues to unite frontline groups under a shared vision of a healthier and more just Oregon. Through collaborations, they are fighting for real, tangible benefits like reducing the cost to heat and cool our homes and advocating for millions in investments to strengthen community resiliency.
Beyond Toxics has been holding local polluters accountable for over two decades in Eugene, through using community organizing to develop leaders and advocates.
Rogue Climate is supporting young climate leaders through hands-on campaign development and execution. That is leading to real victories like passing the youth-led policy to incentivize all-electric new homes that will cut pollution and lower energy costs.
These organizations, which I'm proud that Meyer has continued to support, have been leading the way. But there are opportunities for more environmental justice and climate-focused groups to step into the organizing space.
Planting Seeds for the Future
We know that good organizing takes time, trust and training. We also know that many groups are doing all they can to sustain operations amid today’s challenges. That’s why we’re thinking long-term — about what Oregon’s organizing ecosystem could look like in ten years, and what we need to invest in now to get there.
Later this year, Our Resilient Places will have a funding opportunity specifically focused on power building with frontline communities. We’re looking to support organizing trainings, base-building models and other programs that build community power rooted in environmental and climate justice.
A Movement Moment
As I pass Dawson Park on my way to Meyer’s office, I don’t recall the speeches or all the chants that day, but I remember how the day made me feel. I felt hope, connection and possibilities. I still feel all of it as I work to bring resources to visionary efforts and sound strategy. The intersecting crises we face — ecological collapse, economic inequality and rising authoritarianism — require systemic solutions. Organizing is our best bet.
That means supporting the people and organizations building those solutions from the ground up. Climate and environmental justice cannot be separated from racial justice, economic justice or workers' rights. It is one of many intersecting movements. And the people most affected by environmental harm are also the ones with the clearest vision for how to repair and transform our systems.
Now is the time to follow their lead.
If you or your organization is building power in frontline communities, we want to hear from you. Let’s organize. Let’s build. Let’s grow something resilient, together.
A recent news story has raised fresh concerns in the philanthropic community about how public data can be used — and potentially misused — in today’s polarized political environment. In particular, information drawn from publicly available grant databases has been cited in efforts to spotlight funders or grantees whose support for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives may be targeted by political actors.
This moment offers an important opportunity for us to reflect on how Meyer approaches data transparency, privacy and the values that guide our decisions.
We believe that transparency is a key part of building trust and accountability in philanthropy. For years, we have shared data about our awarded grants with Candid, a widely respected organization that helps improve the flow of information in the nonprofit sector. The data we share includes the names of grantee organizations, the purposes of grants, and the amount awarded — information that supports research, collaboration and public understanding of our work. Candid has also responded to share more on its own practices and policies.
That said, we are also mindful of the risks that can emerge when even well-intentioned transparency intersects with shifting political agendas. Not all Meyer grants are publicly disclosed through Candid. Our internal process includes the option for staff to mark a grant so it will not appear in our public-facing reports or promotional materials. However, all grants, whether publicized or not, are ultimately reported in our IRS Form 990-PF filings and become part of the public record once our tax returns are submitted.
Beyond grants data, Meyer also handles a wide range of information from our grantees and applicants — financial statements, narrative responses, organizational documents — that is treated with the highest level of care and confidentiality. This data is considered private and proprietary unless it is already part of the public record. We do not share it unless doing so is fully aligned with our privacy policy and, where necessary, with the explicit consent of the applicant.
In practical terms, that means Meyer employees, trustees and contractors may not transmit constituent data outside the organization unless authorized, nor may they store such data on personal devices or non-Meyer-managed cloud services. These protections aren’t just about compliance — they are about respect. Respect for the organizations we partner with, and for the often sensitive work they undertake in service to communities.
As this conversation continues to evolve within the philanthropic sector, we remain committed to transparency rooted in ethics, caution and care. We will continue to evaluate our practices, listen to our partners and stay responsive to the broader landscape. If you have questions about Meyer’s data policy, we encourage you to reach out to our Grants Management team at grantops [at] mmt.org.
In challenging times, the decisions we make about how we share and protect data are a reflection of our values. We are committed to making those decisions thoughtfully and in partnership with the communities we serve.
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.
