About Running Waters Equity Fund
The Vision
We envision a Blue Mountain Region where historically marginalized communities have the power, representation, and resources to shape policy, influence systems, and build lasting economic, cultural, and social change.
A region that is collaborative, connected, culturally vibrant, and committed to creating equitable opportunities for all people to live, learn, work, and thrive.
The Mission
The mission of Running Waters Equity Fund is to build community power through advocacy, leadership, investment, and legislative change.
We advance equitable policies, support minority-led initiatives, and strengthen cross-community partnerships to create lasting social, cultural, and economic impact throughout the Blue Mountain Region.
Running Waters Equity Fund
is an independent 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to building community power through advocacy, leadership development, cultural investment, and legislative change throughout the Blue Mountain Region. Founded by community leaders committed to advancing equitable systems, Running Waters works to strengthen historically marginalized communities by investing in people, partnerships, and policies that create lasting impact. We believe equity requires more than awareness—it requires action, accountability, and representation in the spaces where decisions are made. Through community engagement, coalition building, education, civic participation, and support for minority-led initiatives, Running Waters Equity Fund works to challenge systemic inequities while helping create a region where all communities have the power, opportunity, and resources to thrive.
Our Approach
Running Waters Equity Fund invests in community-led work that advances advocacy, leadership, equity, and long-term systems change throughout the Blue Mountain Region. We support projects, programs, organizations, and initiatives that strengthen historically marginalized communities, build collective power, and create measurable social, cultural, civic, and economic impact.
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Priority is given to work that is community-accountable, minority-led, culturally responsive, and focused on advancing policy, representation, access, and systemic change. This includes advocacy efforts, leadership development, civic engagement, creative and cultural initiatives, educational opportunities, and collaborative community solutions designed to challenge inequities and expand opportunity.
Running Waters Equity Fund operates through an invitation-based grant process. Organizations, groups, and community leaders interested in funding must first request a meeting to discuss their project, community need, or proposed impact. These conversations help ensure alignment with our mission, values, and long-term vision for equitable community transformation.