| This is a critical moment. As public investments continue to reshape the Southwest Corridor, we must ensure that community voices—especially those most often excluded—are at the center of decision-making. The SWEC Community Ambassador Program is one way we make that happen. About the Community Ambassador Program: SWEC is looking for Community Ambassadors—people ready to build power, connect with neighbors, and lead efforts that advance racial equity, housing justice, and climate resilience in the Southwest Corridor. We are especially seeking leaders from Black, Indigenous, immigrant, refugee, and low-income communities—voices that are often left out of policy and planning conversations. What You’ll Do Join 3 Saturday training sessions: August 23, September 6, and September 20 (9:30 AM–2:00 PM) Build leadership and organizing skills Connect with other passionate community leaders Learn about housing, transportation, anti-displacement, and advocacy Get involved with SWEC campaigns and coalition work after graduation Requirements Live, work, go to school, worship, or own a business in the Southwest Corridor. Attend at least 2 of the 3 Saturday sessions. Be open to joining a SWEC campaign or workgroup after completing the program Stipend All participants who complete the program will receive a stipend in appreciation of their time and contributions. Apply Now Applications are due by August 15th, 2025 Questions? Contact Ernesto at ernesto@uniteoregon.org Click here to apply or learn more About SWEC & the SWEDS Strategy SWEC was formed through the Southwest Corridor Equitable Development Strategy (SWEDS)—a community-created roadmap to ensure public investments benefit rather than displace the people who call this corridor home. The SWEDS framework continues to guide our work to stabilize communities, advance equity, and build shared power in Southwest Portland. Learn more here: SWEDS Full Strategy Document Help Us Spread the Word SWEC is a coalition, and we need your help to ensure this program reaches every corner of our community. Please share this opportunity with your organization, neighbors, and networks. Let’s make sure the next generation of community leadership reflects the full diversity, wisdom, and lived experience of the Southwest Corridor. To make it easy, we’ve created a full Communications Toolkit with multilingual flyers, social media graphics, newsletter blurbs, talking points, and more: Access the Communications Toolkit Thank you for being part of this work. Together, we can build a future where development strengthens—not divides—our communities. In solidarity, The SWEC Team Southwest Corridor Equity Coalition |
SWEC Community Ambassador Program Applications Now Open!
