Ethiopian and Eritrean Cultural and Resource Center

Oregon Health Authority COVID19 Emergency Response Project provided wraparound support including rent, utility, food and other basic assistance was provide to Ethiopian, Eritrean, African American and other African community members affected by Long COVID

PCEF 100,000.00 Project 32002899. This project is to raise climate awareness and foster energy efficiency through a series of educational and engagement activities. It involves creating multilingual educational materials and surveys tailored to various age groups, conducting youth and adult educational sessions, and gathering and analyzing feedback. The project also includes surveying homeowners about solar energy and energy efficiency upgrades, developing strategies for potential installations, and researching workforce development opportunities in the climate sector. The final phase will involve compiling findings and submitting a comprehensive report to conclude the grant.and we have achied all of the Goals mentioned here Over 150 community members participated in this projects.

Vaccine Equity Project by Urban Institute initiative has laid the foundation for a much-needed computer and ESL lab, benefiting newcomers and individuals seeking to enhance their language and computer skills. The desktops and printers utilized for training have become invaluable assets accessible to all community members. They are used for various purposes such as job applications, online classes for certifications like CPR/First Aid, accessing DHS resources, and staying connected with family and friends worldwide, fostering a sense of belonging.

EECRC PDX Digital Divide Response tech project provided 123 laptops, iPads, and accessories to Ethiopian and Eritrean community members, primarily newcomers without prior ownership or basic computer skills. Seventy-five participants completed basic computer training, while 27 advanced to English as a Second Language (ESL) classes focused on job readiness. Participants showed significant improvements in ESL, reading, writing, and typing skills. Those with intermediate English and computer skills were encouraged and connected to pursue higher-level courses at Portland Community College. All participants gained essential internet skills for email, social media, and online communication, with seniors noting a decrease in isolation through online family connections.

The Collins Foundation Project funds personnel, payroll, and office space expenses, enhancing our ability to provide resources, educational facilities, including meetings and workshops, as well as life, social, and civic support. This initiative has significantly improved operational functionality, checks and balances, and HR efficiency.

SEED / EECRC Youth Tutoring and Health Education. The SEED project, conducted from January to June 2023, aimed to achieve two primary objectives: 1- To offer mentorship, tutoring services, and peer learning opportunities that empower students to effectively navigate the school system. 2- To deliver linguistically and culturally relevant health information, referrals, and health education workshops to mitigate barriers to healthcare access within the community. Throughout the project duration, EECRC provided tutoring, mentoring, education and career enhancing presentations, health workshops, and engaging outdoor/indoor activities tailored for 21 youth participants. Many of these youths and their families have been involved in the project for over a year, demonstrating remarkable progress in adapting to life in the U.S. They have gained the ability to access healthcare services and health-related knowledge, leading to improvements in their school performance, language proficiency, positive learning engagement, socialization skills, and adeptness in navigating the school system.

Child Care Capacity Building. The Child Care Project aims to expand culturally specific child care offerings in Oregon, and since receiving the grant, weve made remarkable progress. EECRC has successfully identified and enrolled ten individuals from Ethiopian, Eritrean, and other African communities who are eager to become child care providers. Among them, eight have completed essential training, obtained necessary certifications, and passed background checks. Three participants have received crucial support in acquiring essential furniture and materials, along with obtaining their Registered Child Care business licenses. All three have launched their childcare businesses and initiated marketing efforts. Additionally, a fourth participant, who already held a license, received support to enhance her space to attract more clients. Remarkably, weve efficiently utilized the grant funds to achieve these milestones in less than four months, surpassing our initial year-long target. For the four licensed provders, EECRC has supported them by providing: $29,172.47 for supplies, computers, printers, and furniture allowing them to prepare for outreaching and enrolling children into their childcare business, whereby they earn a good living while providing quality childcare services to their community.

Community Financial Education Project. Over 100 community members (youth, adults and seniors and women seeking to open small businesses) benefited from our financial literacy training, empowering them to make informed decisions and advancing our goal of Economic Justice. The workshops covered essential topics such as basic finance, budgeting, and emergency funds, home buying, college savings, retirement savings/supplements, and proper protection such as life, auto, and home insurance are crucial for financial security and stability. Two participants bought homes, while others invested in the Owing to Owning program and initiated emergency fund savings. Youth members were encouraged to save for college, and overall feedback highlighted a better understanding of financial concepts. The grant funds have played a pivotal role in implementing these financial literacy initiatives, fostering partnerships, and contributing to the economic empowerment of Black / immigrant communities. These outcomes directly align with the grants goals, demonstrating the positive impact of collaborative efforts on community members lives.

FY23 CHW Wraparound Program. This project builds upon our COVID-19 emergency response efforts from last year. We provided assistance to community members affected by COVID-19 and related challenges by covering rent, mortgage, utilities, and supplying food and basic necessities during their isolation or quarantine. Additionally, we have continued encouraging community members to receive booster vaccinations and disseminated important information about post-COVID issues. Our efforts have reached over 100 community members, who responded positively to the information they received.

The OHA Marketplace Transitional project has positively affected over 80 community members by offering assistance with health insurance application and enrollment, as well as advocating for unpaid medical bills and providing financial support. This initiative engages with over 300 individuals in person and reaches more than 3000 people through social media platforms to educate them on navigating insurance, the healthcare system, and available resources.

PCL/EECRC 2021 2023 Youth Tutoring and Mentoring. This project has positively transformed the lives of 35 youth aged 9-18 through weekly tutoring and mentoring sessions. More than 85% of participants improved their school attendance and advanced by at least one grade level in language, math, and reading. Five graduates went on to college and secured summer jobs while mentoring younger peers, creating a supportive community environment. The project also offered workshops on financial literacy, computer skills, mental health, cultural pride, and college/job readiness, equipping participants for future success. Additionally, eight youths participated in the Summer Learn and Earn initiative, receiving training in stress management, gardening, nutrition, emergency preparedness, and financial literacy while earning $1,200 each. The Summer Indoors and Outdoors Activities for Youth provided recreational opportunities like swimming, soccer, movie nights, and bowling. Collectively, these programs significantly enhanced the academic and personal growth of participating youth, fostering a well-rounded, empowered community.

REACH Community Clinical Services Project, in collaboration with the Healthy Heart Ambassador Project, established a platform for individuals with chronic health conditions to gather, share experiences, and acquire various self-management skills. These sessions, occurring at least twice a month, engaged over 60 participants and provided education on healthy living practices such as nutritious eating, exercise routines, maintaining a positive mindset, and accessing healthcare services. We also collaborated closely with healthcare providers to optimize the participants benefits. Numerous community engagement activities were organized, including neighborhood walks, cooking demonstrations, and regular blood pressure checks.

GVR Youth Social and Developmental Training. The Gun Violence Prevention and Intervention Project aimed to raise awareness of the escalating risks of violence in our communities while empowering youth to build resilience against these challenges. Through a series of workshops, participants learned coping mechanisms and protective skills relating to violence, gangs, and drug use. These sessions equipped youth with practical strategies for navigating difficulties, fostering resilience, and resisting negative influences. Key topics included conflict resolution, assertiveness training, peer pressure recognition, identifying warning signs of gang involvement and substance abuse, and accessing support resources. The ultimate goal was to empower youth to make safe and healthy choices.In addition, 28 youth participated in a variety of indoor and outdoor sports and activitiessuch as board games, table tennis, gardening, and socceralong with field trips to local attractions like the zoo and parks. These activities promoted physical health, facilitated stress relief, and fostered socialization and camaraderie, all while boosting participants self-esteem and confidence. The activities also encouraged discipline and enhanced learning abilities, helping youth become more aware of negative influences and equipping them with protective measures against violence.Moreover, violence prevention workshops for parents and community members nurtured open dialogues about rising violence, substance abuse, and gang involvement. In collaboration with the Multnomah County Mental Health and Violence Prevention Project, parenting classes addressed community risks and offered insights into safeguarding children, particularly in relation to school shootings. Through these initiatives, parents and community members learned how to navigate the school system, support academic progress, and identify signs of stress or risky behaviors, empowering them to protect their children effectively.

2023 Drive Change Award - PGE. Ninety percent of the funds are allocated for acquiring an EV mini bus. We have already placed the order and made a down payment. The bus is intended to serve the community members who participate in our health, education, and environmental programs.

The Healthy Heart Ambassador Project, in collaboration with the REACH Community Clinical Services Project, established a platform for individuals with chronic health conditions to gather, share experiences, and acquire various self-management skills. These sessions, occurring at least twice a month, engaged over 60 participants and provided education on healthy living practices such as nutritious eating, exercise routines, maintaining a positive mindset, and accessing healthcare services. We also collaborated closely with healthcare providers to optimize the participants benefits. Numerous community engagement activities were organized, including neighborhood walks, cooking demonstrations, and regular blood pressure checks.

Oregon Dept of Transportation Safe Biking & Walking Workshops. After receiving the ODOT grant in October 2023, we began preparing to collect data to ensure clear and accurate pre- and post-project data. During October and December, we focused on developing curriculums and pre-surveys in two different languages and making workshop plans for the coming year. To gather community insights, we conducted a survey targeting 100 community members, compiling a list of 135 members from various locations across Oregon. We utilized a multi-faceted approach, distributing surveys via email using Google Forms, providing paper surveys, and conducting interviews with specific individuals. Ultimately, 60 community members completed the survey.

Food for All Oregonians OFB-FFAO Project. Educated over 120 community members on the concept of food as a human right, the process of turning an idea into law, and the importance of advocacy for both personal and community-wide empowerment.

Multnomah County Harmonious Neighborhood CPTED Project. Renovation of EECRC Community room aimed at improving the operational space and equipment to provide youth and other members who utilize the common space a safe, healthy and inviting environment. These included painting, improving the bathroom, carpet cleaning and upgrading furniture. A computer space provides the youth with supervised computer and internet access for recreation and homework purposes. The renovation upgraded the center in a way that supports opportunities for youth to develop their physical, social, emotional, and cognitive abilities and to experience achievement, leadership, enjoyment, friendship, and recognition.

City of Portland CWSP EECRC Environmental Ambassador Program. We conducted educational workshops for five community ambassadors to enhance their environmental knowledge and stewardship through hands-on activities. These ambassadors in turn, shared this knowledge with their community members. They also led youth leadership activities, including the EECRC Community Garden cleaning and clearing, winter planting, garden skills classes, and watershed education.

Food for All Oregonian. Educated over 100 community members on the concept of food as a human right, the process of turning an idea into law, and the importance of advocacy for both personal and community-wide empowerment.

Care Oregon Healthy Living Project. Assisted five families with rent, utilities, food, and other basic needs, who were impacted by Long COVID.

Unite Oregon Sustainability Forum Protection. A donation was provided to support staff participation in leadership training and community dialogue engagement, with a portion allocated to cover administration costs.

Oregon Public Health Institute Child Care Provider License Assistance. Funding was allocated for our staff to engage in recruiting childcare providers, attending training sessions and meetings, and developing curriculum, which we set aside for administrative purposes.

2022 EECRC - Diabetes Prevention Program / DPP Training. To provide education to over 25 community members on diabetes, including sharing resources for those at risk. Additionally, offer healthy cooking demonstrations and lead group physical activities.

Working Together by Energy Trust of Oregon. EECRC/ETO Working Together grant focuses on expanding energy trust offers and services to our community members through education, awareness and direct service in a culturally and linguistically tailored way. Homeowners, renters and small business owners, low and middle income community members will be participating.

PGE Capacity Building. These funds, provided by PGE, are designated to cover the costs of contractors who assist with grant writing, and we intend to use them for the same purpose next year.

Oregon Academy of Family Physicians Project for forum participation in order to identify community members needs and building community through building a commuity event.

CAT 2023 Annual Membership Meeting. Community members attend a tenant housing annual membership meeting to educate and empower tenants to demand safe, stable, and affordable housing. EECRC facilitates the engagement of the Eritrean and Ethiopian community providing outreach, transportation, food, and interpretation/translation.

Trillium Health Fair. A donation was provided to help cover some administrative costs.

New Comer Orientation Project by City of Portland. The Metro Community Nature Connection Project is dedicated to fostering a stronger bond between our community members and nature through community-led programs; However, the project has been postponed until 2024.

METRO 2023 Nature Connection Project EECRC Hiking. The EcoHarmony Community Nature Connection Project is dedicated to nurturing a stronger bond between our community members and nature through community-led programs.

PSU. A donation was given by PSU for our participation in survey work, and the funds will be allocated to cover administrative costs.

Willamette Partnership Administrative Support PSU. This fund is also provided in recognition of our organizations participation in meetings and discussions and is allocated to cover administrative costs.

Deidre Schuetz. A donation was provided by other nonprofit partners in appreciation of our participation in their focus group.