Initiatives
YES for Clackamas Kids
After more than 10 years of coordination and shared advocacy among the nonprofit community in Clackamas County, the Safe Kids Coalition advanced the Children’s Safety Levy on the November 2020 ballot. Recognizing the need for stable and adequate funding, the proposed levy would have created additional property tax revenue dedicated to children’s safety services in the county. The Coalition was successful in securing 135 individual and 76 organizational endorsements and connecting with over 200,000 voters in Clackamas County. While unsuccessful in this first ballot attempt, the Coalition still believes this is a long-term solution to service shortages in our county.
Shared Funding Opportunities
Since the levy campaign, the Safe Kids Coalition has not slowed down. The Coalition has brought forward two collective funding requests in 2021. These requests include a $1.18 million Congressionally Directed Spending proposal and an $8.1 million proposal for American Rescue Plan Act funding allocation from Clackamas County.
Creating a Common Narrative
Currently, the organizations serving children and families in our county are stretched to their limits. When we come together we can share the strength of our collective voice and a common narrative. Advocacy for stable and adequate funding to support children impacted by trauma is stronger with shared data and a common narrative.