Roll Up Your Sleeves for Community Impact Week!

United Way of the Columbia-Willamette (UWCW) invites you to sign up for a project during Community Impact Week (October 7–11, 2025), a week-long volunteer event uniting community members, corporate partners, and nonprofits across the Portland metro region. Powered by UWCW’s Hands On Greater Portland (HOGP), the event will mobilize hundreds of volunteers to roll up their sleeves and make a tangible difference in neighborhoods across Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark counties.  

 Volunteers will participate in a variety of projects – from preparing STEM kits for local schools, to beautifying parks and community spaces, to supporting organizations serving families in need. The event is designed not only to meet immediate needs, but also to strengthen long-term community connections by forging bonds between community members and local nonprofits they’re interested in.  

 “Community Impact Week is about bringing people together to create lasting change,” said Kelly O’Lague, President and CEO of UWCW. “The experiences volunteers have are often remembered for years – whether it’s learning a new skill or meeting a new friend – it just feels good to give back… and it’s fun!”  

HOGP, a program of UWCW, connects thousands of volunteers each year to opportunities with local nonprofits, schools, and community organizations. Community Impact Week serves as a spotlight on this year-round work, reminding residents that service doesn’t end after the week concludes.  

 “This week showcases the best of what’s possible when we give our time, talent, and energy to the places we call home. Our Hands On team is proud to power this event, but more importantly, we’re proud to offer pathways for people to stay engaged 365 days a year,” said John Afryl, Senior Program Manager at HOGP. “Whether you’re an individual, family, or workplace team, there’s always a way to contribute.”