Impact NW Finds a Way

At Impact NW, we have always been at the forefront of supporting our community, particularly during times of need. The recent teachers’ strike brought a unique challenge but also presented us with an opportunity to reinforce our commitment to empowering youth and families. Our SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) after school programming swiftly adapted to ensure students were engaged and learning in meaningful ways.

With the school closure, Impact NW staff secured off-site locations to ensure the continuity of our programs. We continued to offer resource distribution, community outreach, and in-person programming, seamlessly providing enriching activities for students such as:

• AKA Science and LEGO Robotics: Cultivating scientific curiosity and critical thinking through engaging, hands-on learning experiences and interactive projects.
• Art and Craft Projects: Fostering creative expression and imagination through storytelling, drama, cartooning, and crafts.
• Physical Fitness: Offering a range of activities from dance class to sports like basketball and soccer, promoting physical health, teamwork, and personal growth.
• Outdoor Learning: Creating opportunities for students to engage with the outdoors, such as gardening to environmental responsibility and appreciation.
• In-Person and Virtual Programming: Adapting to both in-person and virtual formats to ensure accessibility for all families.
• Community Engagement: Securing off-site locations for activities, including a field trip to OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry).
• Family Resource Navigator (FRN) Outreach: Providing tailored support, information, and resources through regular phone calls, texts, and in-person check-ins to families.
• Food Assistance: Addressing nutritional needs with initiatives like lunch deliveries, breakfast and lunch pickups, and food box distributions.

Through our upstream support services, Impact NW is dedicated to empowering students, their families; which ultimately benefits everyone in the community.

Reflecting on the dedication and adaptability of our Impact NW team, Gina Kim-Folston, Director of Youth and Family Services, shares,

We are driven by our commitments and values of putting people first and finding a way to continue providing support to students and families during challenging times. Our SUN community schools and other youth programs have pivoted the last few weeks to provide programming at off-site locations and go back to some virtual programming. Staff and students found new and fun ways to stay connected and engaged!”

We invite you to join us in our ongoing efforts to support and empower our community. Whether through donations or simply spreading the word, every action contributes to building a stronger, more resilient community.