© 2026 Health Equity Coalition of Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties – All rights reserved | Made with ❤︎ by Birdee Media
The Health Equity Coalition of Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties (HECMPY) is a nonprofit, grassroots organization dedicated to advancing equity and justice for underserved and marginalized communities across our region. Born out of a shared recognition of the widening disparities in health, housing, education, and access to essential resources, our coalition is led by community members, for community members. We are deeply committed to ensuring that those most affected by inequities have not only a voice but a seat at the decision-making table.
Our work centers on supporting families and individuals as they navigate the daily challenges of systemic barriers—such as immigration status, language access, limited transportation, healthcare inaccessibility, and economic instability. We understand that inequities are not isolated issues, but the outcomes of long-standing systems that disadvantage entire communities. That’s why we take a holistic, community-driven approach that addresses both immediate needs and the broader systems that sustain inequity.
Through education, advocacy, and capacity building, we empower community members to understand their rights, access critical services, and participate meaningfully in local decision-making processes. Our outreach, leadership development programs, and needs assessments are all grounded in lived experience and shaped by cultural and linguistic responsiveness.
Most recently, we completed a Community Needs Assessment that reached more than 3,000 community members across the tri-county area. The insights gathered have been invaluable in identifying priority areas and shaping our future programs. This effort reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that community priorities are visible and influential to policymakers, service providers, and funding institutions alike.
We create inclusive spaces where community members share their experiences, build trust, and lead change.
We work with local leaders to influence policies that promote equity in health, housing, and education.
We train and mentor emerging leaders to advocate effectively and strengthen community voice.
We gather and share community-driven data to guide solutions and inspire systemic change.
It is to uplift community voices, expand access to resources, and build stronger, more equitable communities. We do this by forming authentic partnerships with local organizations, schools, and agencies that share our values, creating a united front to reduce disparities and improve overall well-being.
Ultimately, the Health Equity Coalition envisions a future where every person—regardless of race, background, or circumstance—can live with dignity, safety, and access to the resources they need to thrive.
© 2026 Health Equity Coalition of Marion, Polk, and Yamhill Counties – All rights reserved | Made with ❤︎ by Birdee Media