As we reflect on the past year, 2024 was a time of incredible challenges, renewed hope, and deep gratitude for our community, volunteers, and partners. We were able to expand our services, deepen our impact, and strengthen the bonds that make Woodland a place of compassion and generosity.
Shift of Services
One of the biggest highlights of 2024 was the shift in focus to our programs. With other area organizations offering food and clothing we have been able to expand our programming of services to support our unsheltered neighbors with housing resources and support.
Our food pantry faced uncertainty with a decrease in grocery store donations but the support of local farms and food distributors, we doubled the variety of fresh produce and healthy foods offered. This year, we distributed hundreds of thousands of pounds of food, ensuring that every family that came through our doors had access to nutritious meals.
Volunteer Power
We couldn’t have done it without the dedication of our volunteers. In 2024, we were blown away by the 1,000 hours of service every month contributed by community members! From sorting donations and distributing food to assisting with fundraising events, our volunteers have been the heartbeat of Woodland Action Center.
A special shout-out goes to our local senior citizens and retirees. Their energy and enthusiasm were contagious, and they showed us all the power of maturity in action. We look forward to continuing this collaboration in the years ahead!
Community Events and Partnerships
2024 was filled with fun, connection, and community pride, thanks to our annual events and new partnerships. Our partnership with Columbia River Camaro Club during the Planters Days Cruise-In & Car Show brought in nearly $10,000 in donations.
Another major milestone was our collaboration with Clark College Arts Dept and the Lewis River Golf Course who hosted our biggest Empty Bowls Fundraiser yet raising over $6,000.
We are incredibly thankful for the impactful support of the Cowlitz Tribal Foundation and the service minded staff of Red Canoe Credit Union.
The holiday spirit of giving was alive and well in Woodland, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who donated both money and food and participated in food drives and employee giving programs during the holidays. These partnerships have allowed us to continue serving the folks most in need in our community.
Through our partnerships with ESD 112, Cascadia Tech, Goodwill and CAP we have hosted many interns and employment trainees that have brought us added professional "people power" to our ranks along with providing valuable job skills to the participants.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we close out the year, we are filled with excitement and optimism for what 2025 will bring. We plan to continue expanding our services and finding new ways to support our neighbors. Our goal is to further invest in job training programs, affordable housing support, and nutritious food, creating even more pathways to stability and empowerment for our clients.
The journey hasn’t always been easy, but with the love and support of our community, we’ve made a lasting impact. To everyone who has donated, volunteered, or simply spread the word about Woodland Action Center, thank you. Your compassion has made 2024 a year to remember, and together, we can create an even brighter future.
Here’s to a new year of growth, connection, and kindness! Let’s continue to build a Woodland where everyone thrives.
With Gratitude,
The Woodland Action Center Team
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