We’ve come a long way. From gathering together as a concerned community to discuss issues we want to change in East Multnomah County in 2017, East County Rising, powered by community advocacy, inches closer to the goal of creating a vibrant, sustainable community.
Community power is evident in our wins by far – when 17 out of 24 candidates ECR endorsed won the race and when half of the six ECR-supported ballot measures were passed. These are the outcomes of over 50,000 door knocks and over 1,800 educational conversations we engaged in.
With our commitment to equity, civic engagement, and leadership development, we are transforming East County’s political landscape. By empowering individuals to advocate for their communities, supporting policies that promote justice, and holding elected officials accountable, we are ensuring that East County remains a place where all voices are heard and represented.
Transforming Elections Through Community Power
2023 and 2024 were pivotal periods to transform election conversation. East County Rising Action Fund 501(c)(4) is launched to bolster advocacy and political impact, solidifying a dual 501(c)(3)-501(c)(4) structure, while ECR PAC transitions into acting primarily as a fund. This led to implement its most robust, and collaborative political and civic engagement program to date, launching its largest slate, and playing a pivotal role in East Portland’s first election under the voter-approved changes. Our involvement in the We Draw Oregon Coalition has ensured fair redistricting, preventing inequity and empowering voters to elect representatives who reflect their communities.
Amplifying Voter Engagement and Advocacy
Beyond elections, we mobilize thousands of voters through outreach, education, and advocacy campaigns. Our grassroots organizing has increased voter turnout, particularly among historically underrepresented communities. From fighting for housing stability through the Housing Stability and Dignity Campaign to securing funding for parks and recreation, we actively shape policies that directly impact residents’ lives. Additionally, through participatory budgeting initiatives, we champion more equitable and transparent resource allocation.
