The Allocation Committee at its Monday meeting approved $1 million in new three-year investments for the Small Grants Fund to improve equity of access for organizations that have not received Levy funding in the past.

The three-year grants will begin in January and include four mentoring programs, three after-school programs and one hunger relief program. They are:

  1. African Youth and Community Organization
  2. Camp Elso
  3. Portland Tennis and Education
  4. Brown Girl Rise
  5. Elevate Oregon
  6. Ethiopian & Eritrean Cultural and Resource Center
  7. Urban Gleaners
  8. Native Wellness Institute
“These extraordinary, community-based organizations, and new PCL partners, will provide hope and resiliency to the next generation by serving children, youth and families from marginalized communities, individuals with intersectional identities, and those with disabilities,” said AC Chair and City Commissioner Dan Ryan. “We are pleased to support their work and their missions. Congratulations all.”

The Small Grants Fund process began last spring with guidance from a six-member volunteer design team, included multiple community conversations with small organizations, and culminated in funding recommendations made by a 12-member review team. The Allocation Committee unanimously voted to approve the review team recommendations.

The Portland City Council has final approval on Allocation Committee decisions and will review these decisions at its meeting later this month.

Click here for the press release

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Miss Monday’s Meeting?

Watch it on the YouTube below or on cable channel CityNet 30 at 7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 6th or 6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 8th.

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Digital Divide Assistance

The COVID-19 Digital Divide Response Work Group is excited to announce 24 community partners participating in the CARES Act Technology Kit project! Through these partnerships they will deliver 3,500 Chromebooks, 508 iPads, digital literacy training, assistive technology accessories, Internet for 1 year for 500 community members through Chromebooks with LTE connectivity, and financial assistance to cover the cost of a year of Internet service for up to 8,429 Portland residents.

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Parting Words…

It’s hard to say goodbye, and even more difficult during these painful COVID times that prevent in-person farewells. I have been honored to be part of the Levy staff these past 16 years and grateful for the lessons so many of you have taught me.
I am humbled by the amazing work you do to support Portland’s children, and I want to thank all of you for allowing me to share your stories. I am retiring next month and will hand off the communications/outreach responsibilities to the Levy’s John Coghlan. I leave you all with best wishes for brighter and better days ahead.

Mary Gay Broderick