Mission

Impact NW’s mission is to help people achieve and maintain self-sufficiency and to prevent and alleviate the effects of poverty.

We Believe

• All people have the right to:
  • Personal dignity
  • Adequate food, housing, health care and education
  • Be treated with fairness and equality
• Poverty must be addressed at both a personal and political level
• Community partnerships and innovation are essential to achieving our mission

Who We Serve

In the 2007-2008 fiscal year, we served over 70,000 individuals.

Our clients include low-income children, adolescents, adults with disabilities, seniors, and families. Working with schools, businesses, faith communities, community-based organizations, and governmental agencies, we create a safety net and springboard for Portland residents seeking to improve their quality of life.

History in the Community

Impact NW was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1966 by SE Portland residents and four neighborhood associations.

Size of Organization

130 regular employees and over 2,400 volunteers that contribute almost 40,000 hours annually.

Programs Provided

Safety Net Services:

• homeless family shelter
• rent and housing assistance
• utility assistance
• food, clothing, transportation
• information and referral
• client support services
• access to health care & income assistance

Education Support Services:

• youth tutoring & mentoring
• social & educational activities
• early childhood education
• community school coordination
• youth development
• before & after school activities (SUN)

Employment Support Services:

• youth employment training
• Richmond Place homeless transition services
• skill-building classes
• beyond shelter homeless transition services
• access to vocational training
• job referral

Community Involvement Services:

• volunteer placement
• student internship and work study site
• public education
• employee & group community service site
• system advocacy & community organizing

Seniors and Adults with Disabilities:

• transportation
• advocacy/case management
• meal sites and activity centers
• legal and tax assistance
• low-income energy assistance
• shopping trips and friendly visits
• respite
• health promotion activities
• multicultural events
• service access