(past project, Oregon Community Foundation) The challenge: Numerous studies have demonstrated that the arts are essential to a well-rounded education; the arts help us express ourselves, providing a source of history, cultural identity, and connection. Arts education has long been inequitable within Oregon’s public school system. Some schools and districts offer multiple opportunities for students…

The challenge: Oregon is experiencing a shortage of qualified and available early childhood professionals. Turnover is high in this sector; positions are often high stress with low pay and limited benefits. Women of color, who make up the majority of the early childhood workforce, are unfairly shouldering this burden. This issue cannot be solved by…

The challenge: Oregon is in the midst of a child care crisis; it’s difficult for families to find affordable childcare in communities across the state. To keep their doors open, child care providers must balance charging what families can afford and making enough money to pay their bills. Many child care business owners, especially smaller…