Black-Led Nonprofits Receive Major Funding

Funds aimed at programs improving student outcomes

Y.O.U.T.H. (Courtesy of Oregon Community Foundation)

The Oregon Community Foundation announced $720,000 in new grants to 30 Black-led, Black-serving nonprofits across Oregon, many located in North and Northeast Portland. The grants are designed to strengthen organizations that improve outcomes for Black students statewide.

Through its Black Student Success Initiative, the Oregon Community Foundation has supported culturally led organizations since 2020 as part of the Oregon Black Student Success Network. The Oregon Black Student Success Network has grown to five regions across Oregon, collaborating on programs and policy advocacy to improve educational access from K-12 through postsecondary education. 

“Oregon Community Foundation continues to deepen our commitment to help ensure the success of Black students in Oregon,” said Marcy Bradley, OCF’s Chief Community Engagement and Equity Officer. “These partnerships help these organizations to innovate and grow their programs and operations to effectively prepare Oregon’s future Black leaders for success.”

OCF created this funding opportunity in response to feedback from community partners about the need to help organizations build capacity — enhancing governance, operations, internal culture and community relationships. Applications were reviewed by a committee of state, local and community leaders, with final approval by the OCF Board of Directors.

“This capacity grant through OCF has been a catalyst for Y.O.U.TH.,” said Imani Muhammad, Founder and Executive Director of Portland’s Youth Organized and United to Help. “The financial support helps to fortify our organizational structure, expand our ability to serve East Multnomah County families and ensured that our mission — from tutoring to empowerment — can grow sustainably for years to come.”