Community Impact
We collaborate with residents and partners to tackle the root causes of poverty and improve living conditions. Our collective efforts are constantly responding to residents’ needs: We address racial, economic, and geographic inequities in 4 Community Impact Zones (CIZ) in Washington, DC.
Brentwood Neighborhood (Ward 5)
“Ms. Kane’a is exceptionally dedicated, proficient, and actively organizes community-building initiatives that foster unity and camaraderie. She played a pivotal role in identifying a suitable early education center for my son, who is diagnosed with autism.”
Buzzard Point (Ward 6)
“During Covid, UPO came to the rescue of the Greenleaf Senior Building and hasn’t left our side. And Ms. Regina inspired me: I earned my Sanitation Engineer certification through UPO and she encouraged me to become a commissioner.”
Marshall Heights (Ward 7)
“Ms. Krystal is truly hardworking, dedicated, helpful, and passionate. She has hosted events and finds resources for seniors: employment, health benefits, safety, education, and food. She always responds to our needs.”
Washington Highlands (Ward 8)
“Ms. Shawntay has made a huge impact. She hit the ground running and has created a safe and welcoming space where the community feels comfortable coming to her for anything. She is what we’ve been missing.”
How We Help Your Neighbors
Brentwood Neighborhood (Ward 5)
Our office is in Brookland Manor and our goal is to empower residents on their road to economic security. For example, 15 families receive diapers, wipes, and diaper cream regularly through our MCAP Diaper Bank program … which led to these families discovering the value of UPO’s job training, job placement, early education, Community Leadership Academy, and financial counseling.
Buzzard Point (Ward 6)
Buzzard Point residents receive ongoing sessions in computer literacy, exercise, behavioral health, and empowerment (from domestic violence to preventing eviction). We intend to expand behavioral health sessions into all 4 CIZ, and add workshops on financial literacy, nutrition, and preventing youth violence. Our director is on the steering committee of the Black Coalition Against COVID (to help people get the healthcare they need).
Marshall Heights (Ward 7)
We partner with community organizations to hold wellness, smartphone literacy, and community events. From our office in Benning Terrace, we are connecting families with infants to a wide range of resources, and holding focus groups to learn more about our neighbors’ aspirations and how to help them achieve their goals.
Washington Highlands (Ward 8)
Our Community Coordinator’s role is to understand the needs of the community. From our office in the Atlantic Gardens Community Center, we connect residents with resources that empower residents and promote their independence. They gain access to UPO services including job training, readiness and placement, daycare enrollment, financial literacy, and community leadership.
Our Valued Partners
Accenture
American University
Amidon-Bowen Elementary School
ANC 6D
Audi Field
Beauvoir – The National Cathedral Elementary School
Black Coalition Against COVID
Bread for the City
C3 Cares
Capital Area Food Bank
The Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency
DC Board of Elections
DC Dept. of Behavioral Health
DC Dept. of Employment Services
DC Dept. of Parks and Recreation
DC Housing Authority
DC Office of the Attorney General
DC Office of the People’s Counsel
DC Office of the Tenant Advocate
A Drug-Free World
Family First
George Washington University Medical School students
Giant Food
Good Projects
Greenleaf Recreation Center
Hope 4 You
Jefferson Middle School
Living Classrooms
Maryland Community Action Partnership
Metropolitan Police Dept. – Victim Services Branch
MPD – 1st District Police Station
Pepco/ Exelon
Prestige Health
Resident Council Presidents: James Creek, Syphax Gardens, and Greenleaf Senior Building
Rodman Institute
Seabury
Southwest Neighborhood Library
SW Business Improvement District
St. Matthews Evangelical Lutheran Church
TM Associates
Tzedek DC
Washington Nationals
The Way to Happiness
Westminster Presbyterian Church
University of the District of Columbia – College of Agriculture Urban Sustainability
US Census Bureau
US Dept. of Housing & Urban Development
A Wider Circle
WinnCompanies
YMCA