2023 was a year of remarkable growth and collaboration for Communities In Schools of Washington (CISWA). With a focus on empowering youth and fostering their success, CISWA secured major funding grants, strengthened the network, and implemented strategic plans to pave the way for an even brighter future. Dive into the highlights of 2023, hear from our staff about their aspirations for 2024, and recognize where your continued support is invaluable and how to contribute to the mission for Communities In Schools® (CIS®).
Highlights of 2023
- Understanding the Needs of the CISWA Communities: Building strong relationships with CISWA staff and board members, as well as many members of the Communities In Schools of Washington affiliate network, is key to understanding their needs to ensure that all CISWA affiliates have the resources and support they need to succeed. We fostered trust and provided vital resources and professional development opportunities through various initiatives such as the Program Manager Retreat, Site Coordinator Convenings, Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainings, Achieve in Life Summit, and the Student Support Institution.
- Received invaluable in-kind support: Including 10,000 pairs of socks from Bombas and 6,750 Comfort and Hygiene Kits from Amazon, contributing to our operational efficiency, resource availability and commitment to meeting students’ basic needs.
- Building the State Office Team: By welcoming talented and passionate individuals like our new State Director, Development Director, and Communications Manager, we have built a stronger organizational structure, expanded our capacity to support the network, and are now better positioned to empower students and families.
- Charting a United Course: We completed a comprehensive strategic plan at the State Office and partnered in development of the Network’s first common agenda, aligning goals and priorities across the CISWA affiliate network, and providing a clear roadmap for future growth and impact.
- Securing Transformational Resources: In a landmark year for fundraising, CISWA secured a $9 million transformative grant from the Ballmer Group, along with an additional $900,000 earmark grant, significantly boosting our resources and impact. This incredible support, coupled with the $340,000 raised at our 2023 gala, exemplified our strong community support. These resources will fuel our statewide efforts to empower youth and foster their success.
- Transformed HR landscape: Empowered network staff with insightful workshops, fostered fair and transparent compensation through data-driven salary ranges, and equipped teams with a comprehensive resource library, including a vital handbook for streamlined operations.
Looking Ahead into 2024
- Empowering our network, one team at a time: We invest in program managers’ leadership skills, equip site coordinators with essential youth support tools, and foster continuous learning through conferences, retreats, and resource-sharing initiatives. From incubating new affiliates to elevating school-based support, we are dedicated to building a network where everyone thrives.
- Amplifying voices, fostering belonging: We’re weaving DEI&B (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) into the fabric of CISWA, from leadership engagement to inclusive storytelling and accessible recruitment. This ensures every student, every voice, is heard and empowered within our community.
- Fundraising From the Heart: We’re gearing up for our signature #AllInForKids prom event, a night to learn more about the impact of CIS programs across the state. We’re excited to dive deeper into event planning and contribute to making a truly unforgettable night for our community.
- Turning vision into action: The State Office is thrilled to launch our strategic plan, prioritizing youth-focused initiatives that will profoundly impact students and families across Washington. By prioritizing youth and key initiatives, we’re strengthening our network’s impact and paving the way for a brighter future.
Your Continuous Support
Your generosity, whether in-kind or financial, fuels CISWA’s mission. Your contributions stretch our resources, providing essential services to students and communities in need. By joining hands, we can:
- Amplify: Your support allows us to increase our reach and empower more students. We spark community engagement, connect with passionate advocates, and mobilize resources for impactful events and initiatives. These investments fuel culturally relevant programs, paving the way for brighter futures for students across the state.
- Invest: We recognize the vital role our school-based staff play. Your support strengthens our network by enhancing professional development and resources. This equips our team with the tools and support they need to excel in their crucial roles, ensuring they can provide the best possible service to students.
- Build: Your investments help us build a more efficient and impactful organization. We invest in dedicated staff and implement efficient systems to streamline operations and free our team to focus on what matters most – serving students. By equipping our staff with the knowledge and skills they need, we unlock their full potential and build a stronger, more robust CISWA.
With students at the heart of our vision, we can reimagine public education. Learn more about how you can be #AllInForKids.
