Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) announces The Education Co-op

$2.5 Million for Education Programs Across Multnomah County

Photo Courtesy of SEI

For more than 40 years, SEI has been the difference in the lives of youth and families in Portland. SEI’s work has results - 98% of SEI youth graduate from high school. From an investment of the 1803 Fund, SEI will bring this experience and understanding to form the Education Co-op to distribute an annual recurring $2.5 million to support peer community-based organizations dedicated to the wellbeing of youth. 

The potential for transformation is realized through collaborative efforts with collective goals in four areas: - Reading and math proficiency - High school graduation - Tech literacy - Career development The Education Co-op aims to reach youth across Multnomah County and fill the learning gap that they face by providing extra learning time and attention. SEI brings its track record as a community-based provider to lend both experience and expertise to step into this new role as a grant maker. SEI applied their deep understanding to develop grantmaking processes that work – a simple application and evaluation using measurement tools that show collective impact, which leads to transformation. “SEI has been a touchstone for our community for over half a century. Their experience serving Black children is unmatched,” said 1803 Fund CEO Rukaiyah Adams. “We’re here to support that record of success and strengthen our community.” At the center of everything SEI does is a youth who needs support and care to thrive on their own terms. SEI cultivates trusting, long-term relationships to navigate barriers and nurture community. As a central pillar of the North Portland community, the Tony Hopson, Sr. Center for Self Enhancement has been a beacon of community for thousands of youths and families. SEI CEO Trent Aldridge said, “It’s a privilege for us to lead this opportunity for transformational change while centering our collective community. Our goal is to love, support, and empower all young people to realize their full potential. There’s so much work to be done and SEI can’t do it alone. 

This is a chance for us to be a good steward, identify impactful work, and make sure essential programs and resources get the funds they need to be sustained and expand.” An information session is planned for May 1st. Interested organizations should visit https://www.selfenhancement.org/education-co-op to register and learn more.

For more information, contact Jennifer Ellis at jennifere@selfenhancement.org