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Nutritious, plant-forward meals help children grow, stay energized and make the most of their summer months. But when school is out, the reliable school meals that many families depend on disappear, and summer can quickly become a time of real uncertainty around food.

Understanding the need

Food insecurity and under-nutrition are closely connected challenges that continue to affect families across Washington state and beyond. Food insecurity means a household doesn’t have consistent access to enough food for a healthy life. Under-nutrition means the body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs to grow and thrive. For far too many families, both are an everyday reality.

In Washington, the number of people struggling to put food on the table more than doubled during the COVID-19 pandemic, and many are still feeling that impact today. In Washington state, 1 in 6 kids face food insecurity. Nearly one-third of students in Seattle Public Schools receive free or reduced-price lunch, meaning a lot of children and teens face real uncertainty about where their next meal will come from.

Federal nutrition programs like SNAP help bridge the gap for some families, but many don’t qualify and rely instead on local food banks, pantries and community organizations. These challenges are not felt equally. Communities of color, migrants, Indigenous populations and refugees are disproportionately affected, with disparities rooted in poverty, systemic inequity and social injustice. Globally, the impact is profound: millions of children experience chronic malnutrition and too many lives are cut short due to undernutrition.

Why summer matters

Summertime puts added strain on families whose children receive free and reduced-price meals during the school year. Historically in King County, fewer than 20% of kids who access those meals during the school year are able to access free meals over the summer. That gap is significant.

To help address it, schools and community organizations can operate summer meal sites using federal funds from the Summer Food Service Program. The program provides free meals to all children ages 0 through 18 in areas where 50% or more of kids qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. Ensuring kids have access to nourishing food where they live, learn and play is a year-round goal, and it becomes especially urgent during the summer months.

Equitable access to nourishing food is a human right, and there are meaningful ways to support that through volunteerism and financial contributions.

Community spotlight: United Way’s Summer Meals Program

Over the past decade, United Way of King County has significantly expanded its summer meals program by partnering with organizations to provide meals and staffing support at more than 70 meal sites across King County. They also lead statewide outreach and marketing for the program.

Starting June 27, children ages 1 through 18 across Seattle will receive healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner meals throughout the summer.

You can be a part of this work. Volunteer with United Way to help alleviate hunger in our communities. Join the Backpack Brigade to deliver food to students in need or pack meals for children experiencing homelessness and food insecurity who need relief over the weekend.

Finding summer meals near you

Seattle’s Summer Food Service Program operates June 24 through August 18, 2026, at a variety of locations including parks, community centers and schools, serving kids ages 1 through 18 when school is not in session.

The United Way of King County summer meals search tool makes it easy to find sites near you, with sponsor, site and meal information alongside online mapping.

Additional resources:

• Find resources online, 24/7
• Locate a food bank near you
• Find meal programs for older adults (60+)

Support this work

Through the UWCFD, you can support nonprofit organizations working to provide equitable access to nourishing food in our communities. Make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction by searching for a charity by name or cause. If you don’t see the organization you’re looking for, reach out at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll work to get them added.

Your gift makes a difference.

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. Known by many names, including Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day and Liberation Day, it marks the announcement made on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, that all enslaved people were free following the end of the Civil War. The name itself is a blend of “June” and “nineteenth.”

Although the Emancipation Proclamation had officially abolished slavery in Confederate states more than two years earlier, in January 1863, knowledge of it spread slowly across many parts of the South. Historians offer various theories for why, with most agreeing that the disingenuousness of enslavers played a significant role.

Juneteenth is sometimes called Independence Day for Black Americans or America’s second Independence Day, and that spirit of hard-won freedom is at the heart of how the holiday is observed and celebrated today.

A holiday long in the making

Texas became the first state to declare Juneteenth a state holiday in 1980, a fitting distinction given the holiday’s origins there. Washington state officially recognized Juneteenth as a state holiday in 2021. That same year, on June 17, 2021, it was designated a federal holiday by unanimous vote of the Senate and an overwhelming majority of Congress, making it the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established in 1983.

Read this opinion piece by LaNesha DeBardelaben, director of the Northwest African American Museum, on Washington’s newest official holiday.

Celebrating progress, acknowledging the work ahead

Juneteenth offers a joyful opportunity to reflect on and communally celebrate the progress made toward racial equality. At the same time, the historic and ongoing impact of slavery in the United States continues to shape our communities and our lives. The holiday holds both of those truths at once, as a celebration and a call to action.

Learn more about Juneteenth

There are many excellent resources for deepening your understanding of Juneteenth and its significance:

• BlackPast.org, created by the late distinguished UW historian Dr. Quintard Taylor, is an exhaustive resource charting the history of African Americans and more than a billion people of African ancestry worldwide. Dr. Taylor’s article Juneteenth: The Growth of an African American Holiday traces the holiday’s origins and evolution since 1865.
• In Juneteenth: A Primer, author Mitchell S. Jackson provides compelling historical context for the holiday.
• NPR’s How to Properly Celebrate Juneteenth in the Age of Commercialization offers thoughtful commentary on the increasing commodification of what was once a small, localized observance.
• The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture offers a wealth of information, including Juneteenth: A Celebration of Resilience, The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth and Celebrating Juneteenth.

How Juneteenth is celebrated

Historically, Juneteenth celebrations in Texas centered on family gatherings and reunions, public readings of the Emancipation Proclamation, sermons, singing and small festivals. People dressed in their finest clothes, a meaningful gesture given the deprivation of the enslaved, for whom nice clothing was rarely available.

The Juneteenth flag, created in 1997, features red, white and blue, intentionally echoing the American flag to affirm that formerly enslaved people and their descendants are free Americans too. In 2007, the date of the first Juneteenth, June 19, 1865, was added to the flag.

Food is central to the celebration. Red foods hold special significance, both to honor the bloodshed of enslaved people and because red foods were considered celebratory treats during enslavement, when most available foods were white, green or brown. Red soda, punch, hibiscus tea, red velvet cake, red beans and rice, hot sauce, strawberries and watermelon are all traditional. Barbeque has long been the centerpiece of the meal, with whole pigs, cows or goats historically roasted over open pits in a tradition rooted in African practice. In coastal communities, fish fries, crab boils and seasoned shrimp reflect the seafood-centered Juneteenth traditions of Southern Black communities.

Today, many people also celebrate with a trip to a ball game, rodeo, music festival or parade, while the day remains centered on family and community, especially in more rural areas.

One of the most meaningful ways to celebrate Juneteenth any day of the year is to support Black-owned businesses. Check out this directory from the Seattle Urban League and this guide to restaurants, bars and cafes from Seattle Met.

Local celebrations and events 

There is a lot happening in and around the Seattle-Tacoma area this summer:

• Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) kicks off Juneteenth on June 19 with its annual skate party and a full slate of activities featuring the Juneteenth Black Art Takeover.
• Tacoma’s Juneteenth Celebration, the largest in Washington state, takes place on June 19.
• Washington State Parks offer free admission on Juneteenth.
• Washington State History Museum presents the We the People Lecture Series on June 18 from 5:00 – 8:00. This program will feature remarks and a performance by Eva Abram of Rainwater Storytelling. Singer and musician Jason Turner, musician Naby Camara from Guinea, African dancer and drummer Baba Kauna Mujamal, and Kamau Ron Taplin will be performing.
• Atlantic Street Center hosts a family-friendly Juneteenth celebration with community organizations, Black businesses, food vendors and performances on June 18.
• Seattle Art Museum is hosting a community celebration on June 20 from 12 -4 featuring DJs, live performances and hands-on art making.

There are tons of great events in the Greater Seattle area. Check one – or more – out!

Support the Black community

Consider volunteering your time or making a financial contribution through the UWCFD to one of our member organizations actively working to remove systemic barriers to Black opportunity and strengthen Black communities.

You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction by searching for a charity by name or by the type of work they do. Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? Email uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll reach out to invite them to join.

Your gift makes a difference.

Celebrate Pride Month 

June is Pride Month, celebrated in recognition of the Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan, which was among the key catalysts for the Gay Liberation Movement. Pride Month celebrates the contributions of the LGBTQ+ community, honors those whose lives were lost to hate crimes and HIV/AIDS and serves as a catalyst for equity advocacy. 

A history rooted right here 

Seattle has deep roots in LGBTQ+ history and organizing. This June, Seattle Pride celebrates more than 50 years of Pride festivities in the city, established in 1974 as a rallying cry for gay rights and queer visibility in the years following Stonewall. 

Seattle is also home to the Pride Foundation, founded in 1985 in the midst of the HIV/AIDS crisis. A small but courageous group of people came together to create a source of light and hope during a period of profound darkness. Since then, the organization has invested more than $70 million in transformative community change, driven by the simple yet revolutionary belief that every person should be able to live safely, openly and genuinely in all the places they call home. 

At the University of Washington, organized support and celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community goes back even further. In 1967, UW Professor Nicholas Heer co-founded the Dorian Society, the first organization in Seattle to support gay rights and foster queer community. In 1969, Dorian House, operated by a UW counselor and staffed by UW students, began providing counseling services to gay and lesbian people, eventually becoming the Seattle Counseling Center. In the early 1970s, UW students organized both the Gay Student Association and the more radical Gay Liberation Front. 

The UW Pride Month Flag Raising took place on June 1st at UW Campus Flagpole on Memorial Way. The event kicked off Pride Month with speakers and music at the UW Seattle campus flagpole.  The University Advancement Queer Affinity Group  also hosting a Pride Kick-off prior to the flag raising. Flag raisings also took place at UW Medicine locations including South Lake Union, Montlake, Harborview, Northwest and Northwest OPMC. 

Pride in Seattle today 

More than half a century on, Seattle Pride Month is one of the city’s largest and most beloved annual events. Beyond the Pride Parade and Seattle Pride in the Park, Seattle Pride offers year-round community engagement activities designed to celebrate and uplift the many voices in its community, connecting a storied past to a vibrant present. 

Below is a guide to events celebrating and resources serving LGBTQIA+ communities at the UW and beyond.

Show your Pride this June

Seattle Pride in the Park June 6 | Volunteer Park | Noon – 7 p.m. This kickoff festival is a full-on experience: thousands of people coming together to celebrate, dance, eat, shop, connect and just be. Don’t miss it. 

Lavender Graduation June 9 | 5:00 – 7:30 p.m. | A joyful celebration of the achievements and contributions of UW’s graduating lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning students. Registration required. 

LGBTQ+ Leaders in Higher Education Happy Hour June 18 | Stoup Brewing, Kenmore | 5:30 – 8:00 p.m. Open to faculty and staff from all three UW campuses, this casual gathering is a great chance to connect with colleagues. You’re responsible for your own tab, but outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are welcome. Contact the QFSA for more information.

Run and Walk With Pride June 20 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Since 1983, Run & Walk With Pride has brought together LGBTQIA+ athletes and allies to compete and raise funds for local LGBTQIA+ nonprofits. Lace up and join the tradition. 

TransPride Seattle June 26 | Volunteer Park Amphitheater | 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. A free annual festival celebrating Trans life and community across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. 

PrideFest Seattle – Day 1 – June 27 | Capitol Hill | Noon – 8:00 p.m. Capitol Hill’s biggestent is back and 100% free. The festival spans five blocks of North Broadway, Denny and Cal Anderson Park, with three stages of entertainment for all ages. 

PrideFest Seattle – Day 2 – June 28 | Downtown Seattle | Noon – 8:00 p.m. One of the nation’s biggest Pride Festivals, also free. Follow the parade to Seattle Center for hundreds of vendors, food and drink and entertainment on three stages. 

Seattle Pride Parade June 28 | Downtown Seattle | 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Community-led, rooted in activism and unapologetically focused on LGBTQIA2S+ visibility, the Seattle Pride Parade draws 300,000-plus people marching for joy, justice and belonging. Join the Q Center and Q Faculty and Staff Association or UW Medicine contingents to march together. 

Tacoma Pride Festival July 11 | Tacoma | Noon – 6:00 p.m. An all-ages street festival featuring queer and BIPOC entertainment on the main stage, a beer garden, Makers Market and much more. 

Seattle Sounders Pride Night August 16 | 6:00 p.m. Cheer on the Sounders and celebrate community at the same time. Join UW faculty, staff, families, and allies for a special night of connection and celebration at Seattle Sounders Pride Night. Hosted by the University of Washington Queer Faculty and Staff Association (QFSA), this group outing is an opportunity to come together in a fun, inclusive environment and show support for the LGBTQ+ community. The group will be seated in Section 126. Tickets can be purchased at this link.  

Find many more Pride Month community events at the Seattle Pride website. 

Community and resources at the UW 

Whether you’re looking for connection, support or knowledge, the UW has a wealth of resources for LGBTQIA+ community members and allies. 

Q Faculty, Staff & Allies Association fosters a campus climate where all queer faculty, staff and allies are valued and respected, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The association promotes education and dialogue, cultural diversity, leadership and advancement, social networking and the exchange of ideas and resources. 

UW Medicine LGBTQ+ offers a collection of resources, events and community building for queer members of the UW Medicine community. 

LGBTQ+ Resources at the UW supports a culture of inclusion and has provided protections from discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation long before such rights were recognized by federal or state law. 

UW Aging with Pride is a landmark federally funded research project designed to better understand the aging, health and well-being of sexual- and gender-diverse midlife and older adults, led by Professor Karen Fredriksen-Goldsen since 2009. 

UW Libraries offers a wealth of LGBTQIA+ literature and resources, including the LGBTQ History Research Guide with new additions such as the Archives of Sexuality & Gender and Queer Pasts. Special Collections houses oral histories from the Northwest Lesbian and Gay History Project and the LGBTQIA+ Archival Pride Resources. The UW Tacoma Library also has an excellent Gender and Sexuality subject guide and broader community resources list. 

Rainbow Book Month showcases LGBTQIA+ book awards and bibliographies from the American Library Association. 

Support LGBTQ+ communities through the UWCFD 

Consider volunteering your time or making a financial contribution through the UWCFD to member organizations actively working to support the lives and well-being of LGBTQ+ people. You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction by searching for a charity by name or by the type of work they do. Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? Email uwcfd@uw.edu and they’ll work to get them added. 

Your gift makes a difference. 

Summer is almost here! With warmer days ahead, there’s no better time to get outside and enjoy everything the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Hiking, cycling, running, boating, horseback riding, fishing, open water swimming. When it comes to outdoor recreation, we live in a place worth celebrating. Just make sure you’re celebrating safely so you can do it again tomorrow.

Getting outside is good for you

The science backs up what most of us already feel: time in nature improves mental clarity and creativity, supports physical health and reduces the risk of conditions like heart disease and depression, and deepens our connection to the environment we’re working to protect. It’s also just really fun.

This is just as true for kids. Outdoor play gives children powerful boosts to their mental, physical and emotional development. Researchers use the term “nature-deficit disorder,” coined by nature advocate Richard Louv, to describe what happens when kids lose that connection. Studies show that children who regularly play outside are more likely to stay active as adults, show better focus and creativity at school, have reduced ADHD symptoms and develop lifelong conservation values. Early exposure to plants, animals and soil also helps young immune systems develop properly, reducing vulnerability to allergies and asthma. Recent research from North Carolina State University found that nature-based activities are especially helpful for teens, helping offset some of the mental health impacts of the stressors young people face today.

How to recreate responsibly

The Washington Recreate Responsibly Coalition offers these simple guidelines to help protect yourself, others and the places you love:

• Know before you go. Check whether your destination is open and have a backup plan if it’s crowded.
• Plan ahead. Expect some facilities to be closed, pack your own lunch and bring essentials like hand sanitizer and sunscreen.
• Explore locally. Great parks, trails and public spaces are close to home. Be mindful of your impact on the communities you visit.
• Play it safe. Choose lower-risk activities to reduce the chance of injury.
• Go easy on alcohol. It’s generally prohibited in public parks, and in warm weather, it raises the risk of dehydration and heat stroke while impairing judgment.
• Don’t let the sunshine fool you. Warm weather is relaxing, but it’s not an invitation to leave common sense behind.
• Leave no trace. Respect public lands, waterways and Native and local communities. Take all your garbage with you.
• Build an inclusive outdoors. Help make outdoor spaces safe and welcoming for people of all identities and abilities.

Outdoor time is essential to health, wellbeing and happiness. Everyone deserves to experience the Pacific Northwest’s incredible outdoor spaces, in every season.

Support organizations making the outdoors accessible to all

Through the UWCFD, you can support nonprofit organizations working to make outdoor recreation equitable and accessible for all. Make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction by searching for a charity by name or cause. If you don’t see the organization you’re looking for, reach out at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll work to get them added.

Your gift makes a difference.

Wildfire season in the western U.S. has grown longer, more unpredictable and more devastating for people and wildlife in recent years. Smoky skies and poor air quality are increasingly the norm across the region and 2026 is already shaping up to be one of the more challenging years on record.

Widespread drought has fueled an early and intense start to the season. The Washington Department of Ecology declared a statewide drought emergency for the fourth year in a row – snowpack is sitting at just 50% of normal and rainfall has been below average. Unlike some recent seasons, where dry conditions were partially offset by healthy snowpack, Western Washington has been abnormally dry from the start. Above-average fire risk is predicted across the Pacific Northwest due to warm, dry conditions and high fuel loads. The first notable fire of the season, the 125-acre Libby Creek Fire, began in early May.

Climate change is amplifying all of these risk factors, and experts warn that fire season, which runs roughly from May through November, is only getting longer. These are real indicators that we may be in for another difficult, damaging and potentially deadly season.

Learn more about UW partnerships to foster disaster-resilient communities.

Understanding the health risks

Wildfire smoke is a serious concern, though it helps to understand exactly what we’re dealing with. According to Savannah D’Evelyn, a postdoctoral fellow with the UW Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, wildfire smoke doesn’t cause new diseases to develop. However, particulate matter in the air can worsen existing conditions like asthma and cardiovascular disease for some people. Learn more from UW experts on wildfires and smoke impacts.

How fires start

Natural fires, often sparked by lightning, play a role in ecological balance but can grow out of control quickly. Nearly nine out of ten wildfires nationwide are human-caused, whether from discarded cigarettes, campfires that weren’t fully extinguished, vehicle sparks or fireworks. The good news is that means most wildfires can be prevented.

How to stay safe this fire season

Being prepared is the best thing you can do for yourself and your family. Here are some important steps to take:

• Stay informed. Keep an eye on fire danger forecasts using tools from the National Weather Service and US Geological Survey.
• Clear your property. Remove debris, flammable materials like firewood and dead vegetation from around your home.
• Protect your air. Keep windows closed, use air filtration systems and limit time outdoors during smoky conditions. The Washington State Department of Health Smoke from Fires website has helpful guidance.
• Make an emergency plan. Know your evacuation route, locate nearby shelters, gather important documents and keep emergency supplies on hand. Even in Western Washington, having a plan can save lives.
• Recreate responsibly. Whether you’re camping or enjoying a backyard fire, always make sure flames and heat sources are fully extinguished before you leave.
• Use available resources. The Washington Department of Natural Resources offers tips on campfire safety and home landscaping in dry conditions. Wildfire Ready Neighbors provides risk assessments and in-home consultations to help create a wildfire protection plan tailored to your property, budget and lifestyle. And Ready.gov has a helpful guide to preparing for wildfires.

Support the people doing this work

Fire season is also a reminder of the incredible dedication of firefighters and environmental protection organizations across our region. Through the UW Combined Fund Drive, you can make a one-time gift or set up a monthly payroll deduction to support nonprofits working to reduce wildfire risk and make outdoor recreation equitable and accessible for everyone.

Search for a charity by name or cause to get started. If you don’t see the organization you’re looking for, reach out at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll work to get it added.

Your gift makes a difference.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, a designation in place since 1949. It is a time to focus or refocus on self-care, recognize the importance of mental health and honor the courage of millions of people living with mental illness.

Many people place strong emphasis on physical health, yet mental health is just as essential to overall well-being. Mental and physical health are closely connected. According to the CDC, untreated mental health conditions such as depression can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The World Health Organization identifies depression as a leading cause of disability and suicide and the third leading cause of death among people ages 15 to 29.

About 50 percent of Americans will experience a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lives, yet fewer than half will receive treatment.

This year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the 2023 UWCFD featured nonprofit, is leading Mental Health Awareness Month with a focus on creating community. Through Speak Up Against the Stigma, NAMI encourages open dialogue, empathy, understanding and healing.

This month, take some time to prioritize your mental health. Below are some suggested ways you can take care of yourself holistically.

1. Prioritize yourself.
   Your well-being matters. Making yourself a priority may include quality sleep, simple routines or meaningful self-care. This looks different for everyone. Try identifying three small ways you can honor your needs and protect your energy each day.
2. Step back from social media.
   Social media can be consuming. Setting aside an hour or more without scrolling helps restore focus, presence and connection. Taking breaks can improve sleep and reduce comparison, allowing you to stay grounded in your real everyday life.
3. Practice mindfulness.
   Small moments add up. Just a few minutes of meditation or mindfulness can increase calm, reduce anxiety and boost self-awareness. If stillness feels difficult, try mindful activities like coloring, stretching or slow breathing.
4. Limit substance use.
   Many people turn to substances to unwind. Overuse can negatively impact emotional health and daily functioning. Moderation supports balance. If use feels hard to manage, reaching out for help is a healthy and supportive step.
5. Spend time outside.
   Being outdoors reduces stress and supports emotional well-being. Fresh air and sunlight can lift mood and promote joy. Even short daily time outside or caring for plants can strengthen your connection to nature.
6. Build meaningful connections.
   Connection supports resilience. Spending intentional time with friends, family or community groups fosters belonging. If you want to meet new people, try local classes, clubs or activities aligned with your interests.
7. Move in ways you enjoy.
   Movement benefits mental health. Exercise does not need to be intense. Walking, dancing, yoga or stretching all count. Choose activities that feel good and fit naturally into your routine.
8. Make room for play.
   Play is important at every age. It reduces stress, strengthens relationships and sparks creativity. Hobbies, games and shared laughter all count. Prioritize joy and give yourself permission to have fun.
9. Practice daily gratitude.
   Gratitude helps balance life’s challenges. Noticing three things you are grateful for each day can build mindfulness and hope. A simple list on your phone can gently shift perspective.
10. Ask for support when needed.
    Everyone faces difficult seasons. Reaching out to trusted people or professionals can reduce emotional weight. Learning about available resources like employee programs or community services makes support more accessible.

Are you or someone you know in crisis? Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7 to speak to a counselor, including those trained to support LGBTQ+ youth and veterans. At the University of Washington, an additional resource available for staff is the Employee Assistance Program.

Support

Consider making a one-time contribution or setting up payroll deduction to one of our UWCFD member organizations working to provide quality mental health services and de-stigmatize seeking care.

Supporting a nonprofit in your community or on campus is simple and meaningful. You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction through the UWCFD. Search by charity name or by the type of work they do to find a cause that resonates with you.

Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? We’re here to help! Email us at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll reach out to invite them to join the CFD.

Your generosity and engagement make a difference.

 

May is recognized as National Asian American, Native Hawai’ian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, an opportunity to recognize the diverse people, cultures and communities whose contributions have enriched American life for centuries.

The United States first recognized AANHPI heritage in 1978. A week-long recognition was extended to a month-long celebration in 1992 commemorating the rich heritage of the AANHPI community. The 2026 recognition theme is “Power in Unity: Strengthening Communities Together”, highlighting the importance of leveraging collective strength, building communities and promoting resilience.

The month of May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. The majority of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrant workers.

Did you know? The AANHPI community in the U.S. spans 50 ethnicities and has more than 100 unique languages and dialects.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2020 there were more than 24 million Asian American, Native Hawai’ian and Pacific Islander people living in the U.S. The Asian American population is among the fastest-growing in the U.S. and is expected to continue over the next decade.

In the Pacific Northwest, AANHPI communities have long been integral to our region’s history and cultural heritage, with documented settlements in the area dating to the early 19th century. Some historical records suggest the presence of Pasifika peoples (Native Hawai’ians and Pacific Islanders) as far back as the 18th century, prior to the first Asian immigrations.

In the Pacific Northwest, AANHPI communities have long been integral to our region’s history and cultural heritage, having first settled in the area as far back as the early 19th century. Seattle’s first Chinese settlers came to the northwestern United States in the 1860s and 1870s, providing a labor force for the booming lumber mills, fishing operations, and railroads of the region. On UW campus, some of the beloved cherry blossom trees were gifted by the Japan Commerce Association of Washington to the UW Department of American Ethnic Studies in celebration of the Japanese-American relationship at the university.

However, the region also took part in harmful and discriminatory practices, such as redlining, which had significant impacts on access for the AANHPI community. In Washington state, over 12,000 Japanese were incarcerated as part of Japanese internment programs during World War II.

This month — and every month — we celebrate the many ways that AANHPI people enrich our communities.

Get involved at UW

UW Asian American & Pacific Islander Faculty & Staff Association

Recognizing and honoring the rich ethnic, cultural and social diversity of UW Asian and Pacific Islander American faculty and staff, the purpose of the APIAFSA is to create, engage, maintain and sustain a visible and supportive APIA community.

From the Hui Hoaloha ‘Ulana – Hawai’i Club to the Filipino American Student Association to the Polynesian Student Alliance, the UW is home to dozens of student organizations that not only bring people into community. Discover Southeast Asian and Pacific Islander student groups on campus.

 

CSEAD Student Conference

May 1, 9 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The Spring 2026 CSEAD Student Conference will feature a keynote presentation and panels by current UW undergraduate and graduate students across a wide range of topics and disciplines in Southeast Asian studies.

Kathleen Gutierrez | The B-Sides of Unmaking Botany: Labor and the Archive of the Bereaved in the Colonial Philippines

May 1, 3:30 – 5:00

Writing history demands rigorous editing and the willingness to cut material. This talk revisits sources excluded from Unmaking Botany to reflect on monograph making while advancing a conceptual argument aligned with the book’s central interventions.

The Deep Time in Korean Literature

May 14 – Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (Opening day May 14, 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm – RSVP here)

Gowen Hall – Tateuchi East Asia Library, George Beckmann Reading Room

Korean literature has evlovled over five thousand years, shaped by nature, history and everyday life. This exhibition traces the enduring flow, showing how the past lives on in modern Korean literature.

Ehtnomusicology Visting Artist Concert: Heri Purwarnto, Javanese Gamelan $

May 21, 7:30 p.m.

The master Javanese gamelan musician Heri Purwanto from Indonesia performs with his UW students and special guests in this evening of music from Java, Indonesia.

Upcoming Events

Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration

May 2, 2026, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m., Armory Food & Event Hall

Seattle Center Festál presents Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month Celebration in partnership with the Asian Pacific Directors Coalition (APDC). The festival marks the beginning of the officially proclaimed and recognized Asian Pacific American Heritage Month of May in the Greater Seattle area. It aims to preserve and promote the culture, heritage, and contributions of Asian Pacific Islanders and Asian Pacific Americans.

Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America

May 3, 2026, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, Wing Luke Museum

Join the community for a film screening of the documentary, Making Waves: The Rise of Asian America. Filmmaker Jon Osaki will be present for a Q & A after the screening.

Nobuko Miyamoto: A Song in Move Movement Film
May 4, 2026, 11:00 am – 1:00 pm

North Creek Event Center, UW Bothell

Join Anida Yoeu Ali and the community for a film screening featuring the work of visionary artist-activist Nobuko Miyamoto.

Learn more

Take a look at the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month site compiled by the National Gallery of Art, Library of Congress, Smithsonian’s, National Archives, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, National Part Services, and National Endowment for the Humanities.

Check out the National Park Service exploration of AANHPI stories.

The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattle’ Chinatown-International District is the only community-based museum in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to the history of pan-Asian Pacific Americans.

The Panama Hotel – National Historic Landmark is situated on Seattle’s Nihonmachi (Japantown) before World War II. The hotel has a long history of providing temporary lodging for immigrants from Japan who immigrated to Seattle and houses one of only two intact sentos (public bathhouses) in the United States.

Visit Seattle’s Chinatown Historic District, which has been the focal point of the city’s Asian community since the early 20th century and is in the National Register of Historic Places. Chinatown was the heart of the most extensive Asian community in Washington state and the size and vitality of the district attracted thousands of immigrants to Seattle

No Longer Invisible is a project that  launched in 2014 as a means of expression for UW students, staff, faculty and alumni within the AANHPI communities to use their own words in voicing their stories and lived experiences. Diversity in aspects of identity such as culture, religion or spirituality, language, and tradition, among many others within and of the AAPI communities.

The Bainbridge Island Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is a poignant testament to the plight and resilience of Japanese Americans who were incarcerated during World War II.

The Seattle Asian Art Museum, in an exquisite 1933 Art Deco building in lush Volunteer Park, is Seattle Art Museum’s original home and the location of its extensive collection of Asian art. It’s also home to the Gardner Center, which hosts lectures, readings, performances, films and events with visual artists to present diverse perspectives on Asia’s many cultural traditions and contemporary issues.

Support  

Consider making a one-time contribution or setting up payroll deduction to a UWCFD member organization working to advance human rights and justice for Asian Americans, Native Hawai’ians and Pacific Islanders.

Supporting a nonprofit in your community or on campus is simple and meaningful. You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction through the UW Combined Fund Drive (UWCFD). Search by charity name or by the type of work they do to find a cause that resonates with you.

Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? We’re here to help! Email us at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll reach out to invite them to join the CFD.

Your generosity and engagement make a difference.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Every May, Older Americans Month recognizes the vital contributions older adults make to communities across the nation. Launched in 1976 by President Gerald Ford, this annual observance highlights the importance of helping older adults stay active, connected and engaged in community and social life. The 2026 theme, “Champion Your Health,” emphasizes prevention, wellness and empowering people to take an active role in managing and advocating for their health.

At the start of the millennium, about 35 million Americans were age 65 or older. By 2040, that number is expected to exceed 80 million, including roughly 15 million people age 85 or older. Even among the very oldest Americans, centenarians increased by nearly 50 percent between 2000 and 2014. These demographic shifts underscore the growing importance of research, policies and daily practices that support healthy aging.

At the University of Washington, the Healthy Aging and Longevity Research (HALO) Institute is helping lead this work. Housed in the School of Medicine and founded by Dr. Matt Kaeberlein, HALO’s mission is “to enhance understanding of the biological mechanisms of aging in order to promote healthy longevity.” That emphasis on healthy longevity matters. Extending how long people live only has value if those added years are lived in good health. For this reason, Dr. Kaeberlein often emphasizes “maximizing healthspan” rather than lifespan.

Related: Join us for a Lunch & Learn on Active Aging – Engagement and Resources

Maintain and improve health while aging

The National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health, recommends several practical ways to support health and quality of life as we age:

• Exercise: Staying physically active can reduce overall risk of death from many causes while preserving muscle mass and lowering the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
• Food and drink: Small changes in eating habits can lead to meaningful health benefits. Research supports Mediterranean-style diets and moderating alcohol intake, while even simple habits like eating green leafy vegetables have been linked to slower cognitive decline.
• Sleep: Older and younger adults generally need the same amount of sleep, yet seniors often struggle due to pain or illness. Chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to numerous health concerns, including an increased risk of dementia.
• Mental health: Loneliness and social isolation are associated with higher risks of heart disease, depression and cognitive decline. Remaining socially active can be protective. The activity itself matters less than participation, leaving room for hobbies, clubs, faith-based or community organizations, sports, arts and education. One example is the UW Access program, which allows Washington state residents age 60 or older to audit up to two UW classes per quarter for a nominal fee.
• Seeing a doctor: Regular checkups help catch illnesses early and identify risk factors for chronic conditions before they become more serious.

Ways to support seniors’ independence

Preventing social isolation is essential to older adults’ mental and physical well-being and is central to the mission of many senior centers. Researchers have long documented the health benefits of social capital, the networks and relationships that foster trust, connection and participation.

These connections become especially important as people age, since health challenges and social networks may change over time. Volunteering offers one meaningful way for older adults to maintain social capital while supporting causes they care about. Many seniors also participate in advocacy work through local senior centers.

Technology can present another barrier. For those who feel uncertain or intimidated, extra support can make a difference. Many senior centers offer free programs designed to build confidence and skills with technology, helping older adults stay connected and independent. There are also online programs to help build tech confidence.

Get a move on

Physical activity is a key factor in maintaining independence. According to the CDC, regular exercise can help prevent disease, reduce fall risk, improve cognitive function and support emotional well-being in older adults. Family members and community members can help by offering encouragement, sharing information and spending time together, for example by walking or exercising side by side.

Everything is better with a friend

Senior centers are wonderful places to stay active while building new friendships. In addition to offerings like Tai Chi, yoga, aerobics and Zumba, many centers partner with evidence-based programs such as SilverSneakers and Active Older Adults (AOA) that are proven to support better health outcomes.

Staying connected also means checking in often. Calling, visiting and offering rides when needed can make a meaningful difference, especially for those who no longer drive. Many senior centers provide transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores and center activities either for free or at low cost.

Aging is a shared human experience, though it looks different for everyone. Genetics play a role, along with socioeconomic, racial and gender factors. Even so, the relatively simple practices outlined above have been shown to support well-being, improve health and reduce risks for chronic conditions. And for those for whom older age still feels distant, these same lifestyle choices can improve health and quality of life at any stage.

Other Ways to Help

Senior centers and organizations rely on donor support to keep their programs running. Consider volunteering at or setting up payroll deduction through the UWCFD for one of our member organizations to support healthy aging.

Supporting a nonprofit in your community or on campus is simple and meaningful. You can make a one-time gift or set up an ongoing payroll deduction through the UW Combined Fund Drive. Search by charity name or by the type of work they do to find a cause that resonates with you.

Can’t find the organization you’re looking for? We’re here to help! Email us at uwcfd@uw.edu and we’ll reach out to invite them to join the CFD.

Your generosity and engagement make a difference.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who participated in this year’s workplace giving campaign. Together, we raised $1,796,139, including nearly $26,000 for our featured nonprofit, WestSide Baby (WSB) and welcomed 400+ new donors!

Your generosity didn’t stop there. Departments hosted diaper drives that collected more than 3,000 diapers. We filled the minivan three times to deliver them to WSB. That’s a lot of work and every bit of it made a difference.

On behalf of the families you’ve helped and the children you’ve kept safe, warm and dry: THANK YOU! Your support will help provide more than 100,000 diapers to families in need. UW employees truly are the best.

Beyond giving: Volunteering in action

This campaign wasn’t just about donations, it was also about rolling up our sleeves and giving our time. In November, about 20 members of the UW Human Resources team volunteered at the WestSide Baby warehouse in White Center. We packaged diapers, sorted incoming donations and assembled bags of essentials for families.

It was a fantastic way to connect as a team while doing good in the community. Volunteering as a team-building activity? Win-win.

A special thank you

This year’s success wouldn’t have been possible without our campaign coordinators, who spread the word in departments and units and our campaign staff, who kept the momentum going. And of course, YOU! Thank you for sharing your time, talent and treasure. Your efforts made a difference locally, nationally and globally.

It’s not too late to give!

While the campaign has ended, you can give through the UW Combined Fund Drive year-round. Support your favorite nonprofit, or discover a new one by setting up a payroll deduction.

Looking for more ways to get involved? Consider becoming a campaign coordinator or joining the Events Committee. Both roles help keep the campaign strong and successful.

With your support, we’re making a positive impact in the world around us. Thank you from the UW Combined Fund Drive and from all the people your generosity has touched. Your gifts truly make a difference.