Strengthening SW WA through Community-Driven Change
At SWACH, we know that lasting change happens when communities lead the way. In 2024, the Equity & Collaborative Impact (ECI) department deepened its focus on policy advocacy, community-led funding, and strengthening relationships with tribal communities. We believe real change happens when people with lived experience lead the way. We strive to ensure that the people most impacted by health disparities and systemic barriers are not just heard, but rather shaping the solutions, driving the work, and leading us toward more equitable outcomes.
Advocating for Policies That Matter
This year, ECI worked alongside advocates, service providers, and individuals with lived experience to push for policies that make a real difference. Through events like Recovery Advocacy Day and Housing and Homelessness Advocacy Day, community members had the chance to meet directly with lawmakers, share personal stories, and advocate for policies that prioritize housing, behavioral health, and healthcare access.
We also strengthened partnerships with local and state leaders, ensuring that community voices were heard in decision-making spaces. By showing up, speaking out, and pushing for systemic change, we’re helping to break down barriers and create policies that reflect real needs.
Making Sure Funding Goes Where It’s Needed Most
Funding can be a powerful tool for change—but only when it reaches the right places. ECI works on a community-first approach, and this year we launched a collaborative funding initiative designed to provide both funds and technical assistance and training to “by-and-for" nonprofits in Southwest Washington.
Rather than making assumptions, we listen first, ensuring that funding supports the programs and initiatives best positioned to tackle health disparities, expand harm reduction efforts, and strengthen community resources. This approach helps shift power to the people doing the work on the ground, creating more sustainable and effective solutions.
Strengthening Partnerships with Tribal Communities
One of the most meaningful steps forward this year was welcoming Mercedes White Calf as SWACH’s new Tribal Liaison. With a strong background in Indigenous spaces, Mercedes plays a key role in building stronger relationships with tribal communities across Southwest Washington.
Her work has focused on bridging gaps, advocating for culturally responsive services, and ensuring that Indigenous voices are not just included, but centered in decision-making. This is just the beginning of deeper collaboration and long-term engagement that prioritizes the unique needs and strengths of tribal communities.
Bringing Advocacy and Resources Directly to the Community
Throughout 2024, ECI made it a priority to meet people where they are—whether at community events, public forums, or advocacy gatherings. By tabling at events, leading discussions, and creating spaces for connections, we helped ensure that more people had access to resources, funding opportunities, and policy conversations that impact their lives.
This year, ECI launched monthly Coffee Hours, providing a space for community members, advocates, and partners to come together, discuss pressing issues, and connect over shared goals. Held at the SWACH office in Clark County and throughout Skamania and Klickitat counties, these gatherings have helped foster trust, transparency, and ongoing dialogue around the challenges facing our region.
Community Care Collaborative is a grassroots coalition committed to challenging oppressive systems and building pathways to empowerment. By connecting communities with the tools, resources, and support they need, we strive to create lasting change and foster collective strength. Together, we work to amplify voices, inspire action, and cultivate a more equitable SW Washington.
In 2024, SWACH also launched a new coalition designed to challenge oppressive systems and build pathways to empowerment. The Community Care Collaborative (C3) is a grassroots effort to connect communities across Southwest Washington with the tools, resources and support they need. C3 advocates for change by amplifying community voice, inspiring action, and cultivating equity in our region. In their first year, they set priorities around housing, community health, and education.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As ECI moves into 2025, the department is committed to continuing the momentum. ECI’s focus remains on:
• Expanding policy and advocacy efforts to champion meaningful systemic change
• Investing in grassroots initiatives centering community-led solutions
• Strengthening partnerships with tribal and historically underserved communities
• Growing the impact of the Community Care Collaborative (C3), which will celebrate its first year in July
• Supporting Collaborative Funding recipients through a new capacity-building program
• Continuing evaluation work through the community partner survey, the community needs survey, and other assessment tools
• Hosting specific and focused community education opportunities on policy and advocacy
• Partnering with organizations engaged in policy work to expand advocacy into local government
This work is far from over, but with a growing network of advocates, community partners, and dedicated leaders, we’re building a future where equity isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality.
We are proud of the progress made in 2024 and excited for what’s going to come in the year ahead.