VANCOUVER, Wash. – Columbia Credit Union is joining with the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington and the “All In WA” relief effort by committing $100,000 to the SW Washington COVID Response Fund.
The credit union said the contribution will mobilize up to $300,000 for local efforts thanks to two matching gifts—a challenge match provided by the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund of $100,000, and eligibility toward additional matching dollars provided through the All In WA campaign of up to $100,000.
“Tough times call for bold action,” said Steve Kenny, Columbia Credit Union president and CEO. “That’s why we’re so proud that our partnership with the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington, along with the All In WA matching funds and a local match from the Ed and Dollie Lynch Fund, could generate $300,000 in vital, local community support, making life better for our neighbors right here in southwest Washington.”
Columbia Credit Union said the donation helped kick off local fundraising efforts in conjunction with the All In WA campaign and represents the largest corporate gift provided to the SW Washington COVID Response Fund.
Statewide Campaign
All In WA is a coordinated statewide relief effort powered by a coalition of public officials, community foundations, frontline nonprofits and individuals to fill the gaps in government funding for workers and families acutely affected by the COVID-19 crisis. The statewide campaign launched May 27 with $20 million in commitments and a goal of $65 million to be met in the coming months, according to CCU.
Including this gift, the first week of the All In WA campaign has spurred more than $155,000 for COVID-19 relief and recovery in southwest Washington. Jennifer Rhoads, president of the Community Foundation, said that every dollar donated to the response fund is directed to local nonprofits that are serving those most affected by the health and economic impacts of COVID-19, Columbia CU said.
Nearly $5M Raised
Since March, individuals, foundations and businesses have contributed a total of $4.7 million to the SW Washington COVID Response Fund, allowing the Community Foundation to grant more than $3.9 million in relief. Collectively, the 106 grants distributed are supporting nonprofit programs and services that improve access to food, housing, technology and health and safety equipment.
A virtual benefit concert for the fund will stream at 7 PM, June 10, on Amazon Music’s Twitch channel and on digital sub-channel 8.2 KGW Justice Network. The lineup includes Pearl Jam, Macklemore, Brandi Carlile, Ciara, Russell Wilson, The Black Tones, Dave Matthews, Sir Mix-A-Lot, Pete Carroll, Mary Lambert, Joel McHale, Ben Gibbard and Allen Stone.