THE Education Co-op
For more than 40 years, SEI has been the difference in the lives of youth and families in Portland. SEI’s work has results - 98% of SEI youth graduate from high school.
From an investment of the 1803 Fund, SEI brings this experience and understanding to form the Education Co-Op to distribute an annual recurring $2.5 million to support peer community-based organizations dedicated to the wellbeing of youth.
The Education Co-Op aims to reach youth across Multnomah County and fill the learning gap that they face by providing extra learning time and attention. The potential for transformation is realized through collaborative efforts with collective goals in four areas:
Reading and math proficiency
High school graduation
Tech literacy
Career development
After a rigorous and community-informed selection process, SEI is excited to announce the first round of grants awarded by the Education Co-Op to twelve exceptional community-based organizations whose work aligns with these four goal areas:
POIC (Portland Opportunities Industrialization Center)
Youth Organized and United to Help (Y.O.U.TH)
SEI CEO Trent Aldridge shared, “The Education Co-Op grants are a testament to what’s possible when we invest in our community’s strengths. By supporting these outstanding organizations, we’re not just funding programs—we’re building a collective impact effort—shared goals, collective outcomes, and coordinated supports—that ensures our students and families have the opportunity to thrive.”
The potential for transformation
learn more
Please contact the Education Co-Op team for more information. They will be happy to assist you with any questions.
in partnership with the 1803 fund
These funds are made possible by our partnership with the 1803 Fund. SEI’s founder, Tony Hopson, Sr., secured a nearly half-billion-dollar donation to go toward place, culture, and education to lift up the community. The 1803 Fund believes that, “There can be no rooted, prosperous life for Black folks without a concerted investment in the education and wellbeing of our youth. Because children are our future. And learning is the engine of life.
