our impact

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Large group of black, brown and white people smiling at the camera at our Annual Luncheon, Take Root, in 2023

Shaping a Flourishing and Just Community

We bring together donors, nonprofits and communities to identify challenges, create solutions and maximize our impact in southwest Washington.
372
Funds Established
$22Million
Total Grants Distributed in 2023
63
Organizations Supported by Strategic Grants in 2023
$2.4Million
Strategic Grants Awarded in 2023
394
Scholarships Awarded in 2023
$1.1Million
Scholarship Dollars Awarded in 2023
$8.1Million
Scholarship Dollars Awarded since Inception
$314MillionTotal Grants Distributed since Inception

Who We Serve

Nonprofits

We are a nonprofit that exists to support other nonprofits. Through grantmaking, capacity building, endowment administration and deep collaboration, we aim to serve as a trusted community partner for charitable organizations in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania Counties.



Donors

We provide a world of opportunities for donors. Whether making a direct donation to one of our existing funds, establishing a new charitable fund or planning a charitable legacy, our team provides expert advice and local connections to help donors find more meaning and impact in their giving.



Communities

Our region is filled with changemakers who have innovative ideas and incredible talents to contribute. We strive to develop, connect with and convene these champions in order to elevate community-based solutions and accelerate change for a more just and flourishing southwest Washington.



Students

Education transforms lives. Our scholarship program promotes greater access to postsecondary education while encouraging completion through renewable awards and critical resources that provide local students with the security and confidence needed to achieve their goals.



Professional Advisors

Our work complements the services provided by professionals in law, accounting, financial planning, insurance and wealth management sectors. We are your partner and philanthropic specialist, helping maximize your clients’ impact while allowing you to maintain your trusted relationships.



Lighting Paths to Prosperity

Our route to a flourishing and just region resides in community.

More than forty years ago, the Community Foundation was created as an engine for local impact. That purpose continues to guide us as we bring together generous donors, committed organizations and caring residents to pursue our shared vision for a flourishing southwest Washington. This work involves growing community assets, expanding economic opportunity, and advancing equity and justice. This is the path we have charted in partnership with local communities, and we invite you to join us on the journey ahead.

An Indian woman, a Black man, and a Black woman standing together smiling at the camera

Grow Community Assets

Activate the many strengths and resources of our region’s place and people to bring about a flourishing southwest Washington.


GOALS

➜ Inspire giving and deepen impact

➜ Sustain a thriving and diverse nonprofit ecosystem

➜ Build bonds to strengthen relationships and community

A Native woman and two men standing in front of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe's new wellness van

Expand Economic Opportunity

Invest in partnerships, projects and initiatives that foster an inclusive economy, where everyone can contribute and earn with equitable access to resources and opportunity.


GOALS

➜ Identify systemic barriers to shared prosperity and cultivate community solutions

➜ Contribute to an equitable and inclusive regional economy

➜ Sustain critical services and supports that keep communities stable

Several Hispanic people proudly displaying the bus they took part in wrapping in partnership with CTRAN and LULAC. Made to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Advance Equity and Justice

Champion social and racial justice by supporting systems, spaces and processes that include and value diverse voices, uplift human dignity and foster a culture of belonging.


GOALS

➜ Share knowledge about equitable solutions and opportunities in our region

➜ Collaborate with organizations to drive equity, inclusion and justice

➜ Engage in and increase support for community-driven advocacy

Our Initiatives

SWIIFT Initiative

The Southwest Washington Impact Investment Fund for Transformation (SWIIFT) utilizes charitable funds to offer low-interest loans to nonprofits and housing providers seeking to finance high-impact projects. Each loan helps new projects benefit our community and, as loans are repaid, the returns grow local charitable dollars to fuel even more impact.