COWLITZ INDIAN RESERVATION – The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington hosted its 40th anniversary celebration on June 6 at ilani. Nearly 550 people attended the event, themed Shine On!, to recognize the people, projects and programs that have defined the organization’s four decades of impact in Clark, Cowlitz and Skamania counties.
The event featured remarks from Community Foundation President Matt Morton, who outlined the organization’s vision for the future, a highlight of which was the launch of its SWIIFT Initiative. This new, impact investing strategy allows the Community Foundation to operate a low-interest loan program utilizing charitable dollars. Nonprofits and housing providers can access loans to accelerate high-impact projects, thus creating a social benefit. As loans are repaid, a modest financial return allows charitable dollars to grow and get recycled for future charitable purposes.
“These loans will fast-track housing developments and give community organizations the cash flow needed to scale proven programs, both of which allow our region to nimbly address critical issues,” Morton said. “SWIIFT is more than just a financial tool — it’s a catalyst for social and economic justice.”
The Community Foundation has committed $1.5 million of its discretionary assets toward the new initiative. Morton also announced a goal to grow this funding to $5 million through investments and donations from the community.
The Community Foundation’s 40th anniversary celebration sponsors included Beaches, Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Cowlitz Tribe Clark County Fund and ilani. First Pacific Financial, Kuni Foundation, PeaceHealth, Sellwood Consulting, Realvest and Umpqua Bank also provided considerable support as sustaining sponsors.
